Final answer:
Norepinephrine is synthesized in the locus ceruleus, which is a nucleus in the brainstem with the largest number of noradrenergic neurons. It plays a significant role in the stress response, arousal, and vigilance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The true statement regarding norepinephrine (NE) and the locus ceruleus is that NE is synthesized in the locus ceruleus. The locus ceruleus (LC) is located in the brainstem and is known as the largest source of noradrenergic neurons in the brain, which have widespread projections throughout the central nervous system. It is involved in activating the stress system and affects various functions including arousal and vigilance.
Dopamine is synthesized in the substantia nigra and the ventral tegmental area, not in the locus ceruleus. The dorsal raphe nuclei are associated with serotonin synthesis. Acetylcholine is not synthesized with NE in the substantia nigra, and the locus ceruleus is not involved in the formation of serotonin; the raphe nuclei are responsible for that. γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is synthesized in various regions of the brain, but not specifically noted for being produced in the locus ceruleus.