Anatomic and molecular principles of psychopharmacology. A primer for psychiatrists

Abstract

Psychopharmacology uses chemicals to modulate human brain function. Three basic principles of neurotransmission may help to understand the current practice of clinical psychopharmacology. First, the anatomic organization of neurotransmitter systems determines their behavioral affiliation. Second, neurotransmitter receptors modulate the electrical properties (via ion channels) or the biochemical properties (via second-messenger systems) of neurons. Third, the intracellular integration of receptor-mediated responses leads to immediate or delayed effects on neuronal function.