Sleep Board Review Test 1

12. All of the following are neurochemicals involved in promoting wakefulness and arousal EXCEPT:

a. norepinephrine

b. acetylcholine

c. histamine

d. GABA

e. hypocretin

Answer: d. GABA

GABA is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter of the brain and is the major neurochemical involved in promoting sleep. Norepinephrine, acetylcholine, histamine, and hypocretin are all important neurochemicals in promoting wakefulness and arousal.

Reference:

Espana RA and Scammell TE. Sleep 2004;27:811-20

Return to question list.