There are several ways in which neuroransmittion can become compromised. In theory, a deficiency of the substrates needed for forming neurotransmitters could lead to impaired neurotransmission function (Pur, B and Lynam, H: 2010). Also a deficiency of appropriate long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in the phospholipid molecules that make up the cell membrane phospholipid bilayer in which the neurotransmitter receptors are actually located (Witt and Nielsen: 1994). Thirdly, once neurotransmitters have completed their function, they are inactivated to prevent accumulation; this requires many different co-factors (Edelman: 2001)
References
Edelman, E. (2001). Natural Healing for Schizophrenia. Oregon: Borage Books.
Lynam, H and Puri, B (2010). Dysregulated Neurotransmitter Function in:Biochemical Imbalances in Disease. Philadelphia, Singing Dragon. pg325.
Witt,MR and Nielsen, M (1994). Characterisation of the Influence of Unsaturated Free Fatty Acids on Brain GABA/Benzodiazepine Receptor Binding in Vitro. Journal of Neurochemistry 62, 4, 1432-9.
