CREATIVITY AND MADNESSReceptors are molecules that sit on the outside of brain cells
and catch neurotransmitter molecules (such as dopamine,
serotonin, and endorphins). Brain cells have different recep-
tors for different neurotransmitters, and each one affects the
cell in a different way. Some receptors stimulate brain cells
and others lull them into a state of tranquility. Changing cell
behavior is how the brain processes information. It’s similar
to transistors turning on and off in a computer chip.
Figure 4If something blocks a receptor, such as an antipsychotic
medication, then the neurotransmitter (in this case, dopa-
mine) can’t get at it, and it can’t communicate its signal. It’s
like putting a piece of tape over a keyhole. Blocking dopa-
mine usually doesn’t make all of the symptoms of schizo-
phrenia go away, but it can get rid of the delusions and
hallucinations. Unfortunately, antipsychotic medications
block dopamine all over the brain, and blocking the control
circuit in the frontal lobes can make certain aspects of the
illness worse, such as difficulty paying attention and reason-
ing with abstract concepts.