This test measures the following analytes:
- Urine:
- Catecholamine Fractionation, Free
- Creatinine
- Dopamine, Free
- Epinephrine, Free
- Gamma-aminobutyrate
- Glutamate
- Glycine
- Histamine
- Norepinephrine, Free
- Phenethylamine (PEA)
- Serotonin
What are neurotransmitters?
The body has an extensive network of nerves, known as the nervous system, which sends and receives signals from nerve cells to target cells throughout the body. The nervous system controls everything from the mind to muscle movement and other necessary body functions. The nervous system can communicate these signals by using chemical messengers called neurotransmitters. The primary function of these neurotransmitters is to transport chemical signals ("messages") from one neuron (nerve cell) to the next target cell. The next target cell can be another nerve cell, a muscle cell, or a gland.
What are the functions of neurotransmitters?
Neurotransmitters transmit three potential actions in their messages to the target cell, depending on the distinct neurotransmitter. These three actions or changes can be:
- Excitatory--these neurotransmitters "excite" the target cell to continue passing along the message to the next cell. Glutamate, epinephrine, and norepinephrine are examples of excitatory neurotransmitters.
- Inhibitory--these neurotransmitters "inhibit" or block the target cell from passing the signal to the next cell. Examples of inhibitory neurotransmitters include gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), glycine, and serotonin.
- Modulatory--these neurotransmitters "modulate" or adjust the effects of other chemical messengers and how cells communicate.
There are about 100 known neurotransmitters. Most of them are grouped based on their chemical nature, and these categories include amino acids, monoamines, peptides, and acetylcholine. This NeuroBasic Profile mainly evaluates the levels of amino acid and monoamine neurotransmitters. These two types of neurotransmitters play vital roles in the nervous system by regulating consciousness, cognition, attention, behavior, and emotion. Therefore, the body must maintain an adequate level of neurotransmitters. Any alterations to their levels can result in severe health conditions or disrupt necessary body functions, including:
- Heart rate
- Breathing
- Sleep cycles
- Digestion
- Mood, thoughts, or memories
- Senses
- Concentration
- Hormone regulation
- Appetite
- Muscle movement
What is the purpose of this test?
Order this NeuroBasic Profile, Urine, to measure neurotransmitter levels in the body and assess the body's ability to produce and metabolize neurotransmitters. Monitoring neurotransmitter levels may provide therapeutic opportunities that improve clinical success and the individual's health overall health. Individuals may order this NeuroBasic Profile, Urine if they are experiencing the following symptoms:
- Depression or anxiety
- Diminished energy or fatigue
- Insomnia
- Forgetfulness
- Inattention
- Addiction
- Obsessions and cravings
- Chronic illness or immune deficiency
- Pain
- Low libido, sexual dysfunction
Sample Report
Preparation:
Patients should avoid consuming the following foods for at least 48 hours prior to and during the specimen collection: avocados, eggplant, tomatoes, bananas, melons, pineapple, grapefruit, plums, fruit juice, nuts, nut butters, wine, cheese, rice, and chocolate. Patients should also avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, coffee, tea, caffeinated beverages, tobacco, or nicotine products. Do not eat or drink anything 1 hour before saliva collection. If possible, take medications or supplements after collection. Check with physician before stopping medications.
Test Results:
5-7 business days once the lab receives the specimen. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
