What is the primary role of neurotransmitters in the body?

The primary role of neurotransmitters in the body is to transmit signals across synapses between neurons. When an electrical signal, or action potential, travels down a neuron, it reaches the axon terminal, where neurotransmitters are released into the synaptic cleft. These chemical messengers then bind to receptor sites on the neighboring neuron's membrane, allowing the signal to continue its journey. This process facilitates communication within the nervous system, affecting everything from muscle movement to mood regulation.

The other options describe functions that are not associated with neurotransmitters. For instance, while neurons do require energy, neurotransmitters do not serve as energy sources. Structural support in cells is primarily provided by other cellular components, not through the action of neurotransmitters. Additionally, genetic information storage is handled by DNA within the cell nucleus, and it is unrelated to the function of neurotransmitters in signaling. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the essential role of neurotransmitters in facilitating communication between neurons.