Norephinephrine (NE)

This neurotransmitter is associated with an increase in attention and vigilance. It is also known as noradrenalin, a close relative to adrenalin. It is good to think of norephinephrine as the neurotransmitter responsible for effects like the "flight or fright" response. This is when a scared individual's heart rate increases along with breathing. The muscles become activated and ready for action. One can see this is similar to the idea of vigilance and attention.

Alpha 1 receptor

These receptors are located in the cerebral cortex, thalamus, hypothalamus and the cerebellum. Binding in the cortex would greatly influence the positive symptoms, as this area is the one responsible for things such as reason and intellectuality. The hypothalamus is the main initiator of hormone secretion from the pituitary gland thus, being a possible location from where hormone levels can be altered. Hormone changes greatly affect one's mood and behavior. The cerebellum is a part of motor control and may be involved in drug side effects related to abnormal motor movements.

Alpha 2 receptor

These receptors are located in the caudate nucleus, putamen, the hippocampus, the thalamus, the amygdala and the locus ceruleus. The caudate and putamen are a part of the basal ganglia (the motor system within the brain) and drug binding could contribute to motor side effects.

The alpha receptor locations mentioned are those within the brain. There are other areas where activation of these receptors could result in constriction of blood vessels, and contraction of the spleen. These are other effects of the "flight or fright" response. Due its role in the "flight or fright" response, drug binding at these receptors may eventually result in cardiovascular side effects.

Norephinphrine reuptake receptor

This is located where NE is released in many regions of the brain mentioned above. It removes NE from the synapse (area of communication between neurons) so that it can be recycled and used again. Due to the fact that antagonists at this receptor would increase NE, it is doubtful that this may play a significant role in relieving the schizophrenic symptoms.