Dopamine, often celebrated for its role in happiness, has gained attention for its complex and nuanced functions in the brain. Neuroscientist Talia Lerner explains how dopamine facilitates learning and brain plasticity, reacting as a signal to highlight important events. While commonly associated with pleasure and addiction, its true influence extends to coordinating brain activity and dictating neural communication. Lerner aims to debunk common myths surrounding dopamine to provide a clearer understanding of its vital role in both mental and physical health.
Dopamine is a molecule that controls the windows when learning and brain plasticity occur. When dopamine is released, it acts like an alarm: Something noteworthy or unexpected is happening.
I think of dopamine as a stoplight directing traffic, telling everyone how to coordinate on the road. It's vital for scores of brain and body functions.
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