capable of secretory cell neuron glycinergic neuron The neurons that utilize glycine as a neurotransmitter. Glycinergic neurons are a specialized type of neuron that primarily utilizes the inhibitory neurotransmitter glycine to transmit signals within the nervous system. Originating from the term 'glycine' and 'ergic' (pertaining to activity), glycinergic neurons contain and release glycine which acts on specific receptors, known as glycine receptors, found on the surface of neuron cells. Glycinergic neurons are predominantly found in the spinal cord and brainstem, but also exist in the retina and other parts of the brain. These neurons are critical to the inhibitory control of neuronal networks, helping to regulate excitation and maintaining neuronal stability. They play a primary role in modulating and controlling motor and sensory information within the nervous system. In general, when a glycinergic neuron fires, it releases glycine, which binds to glycine receptors on a nearby neuron. This binding causes the neuron membrane to hyperpolarize, subsequently reducing the probability of the neuron firing an action potential, which in essence dampens or inhibits the neuron from transmitting further signals. This function plays a vital role in preventing overexcitation, which may lead to neuronal damage or neurodegenerative conditions. Moreover, glycinergic neurons are integral to certain sensory processes and motor coordination. In the auditory system, these neurons aid in the localization of sound, and in the spinal cord, they are involved in the regulation of motor reflexes and rhythms. Any dysfunction in the glycinergic system can cause serious neurological conditions, such as hyperekplexia, characterized by increased startle responses and periodic bouts of rigidity, and some forms of chronic pain. (This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.) glycine secretion, neurotransmission