Many recognize the affect that a GAD1 SNP has on GABA/glutamate balance, mood and function, but do you know how autophagy and essential vitamins contribute to neurotransmitter function? In autophagy, the genes ATG16L1, ATG12, and ATG5 play a key role in neurotransmission due to their role in selectively controlling homeostasis of both pre and post synaptic neurotransmitters and their receptors.⁴ In general, Autophagy provides neuroprotection, specifically for catecholamine neurons. When the body is under stress, neurotransmitter balance is compromised, thus altering behavior and emotional/cognitive functions. Autophagy helps provide the survival of dopamine and norepinephrine neurons. Specifically, autophagy controls the clearing and responsivity of neurotransmitter receptors through interacting with the proteasome system (protein disposal system) and secretory pathways, a key function of neurotransmitter modulation.⁵ DBH Dopamine beta hydroxylase is responsible for catalyzing dopamine to norepinephrine, with ascorbate (Vitamin C) a required co-factor for the conversion. Polymorphisms in DBH potentially reduce norepinephrine levels, which could result in symptoms such as low blood pressure, intolerance to exercise, reduced muscle tone, daytime fatigue, ADHD symptoms, anxiety/depression, or apathy, etc. Autophagy can be upregulated by routine exercise as well as intermittent fasting due to the up regulatory effects of glucagon. Certain supplements can also support autophagy, such as curcumin, Catechins, caffeine, resveratrol, and D-chiro-inositol.