Glutamate

An excitatory neurotransmitter that figures prominently in learning and memory.


The major excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS), which plays a key role in maintenance of neuronal plasticity and is important in learning and memory. Excessive excitatory neurotransmission and glutamate concentration may lead to excitotoxic conditions and neurodegenerative processes, which, for example, may be involved in alzheimer’s disease. Among other functions, glutamate appears to play a role in protecting against the symptoms of psychosis. This is borne out by the evidence that glutamatergic antagonists (NMDA receptor antagonists) may produce psychotic symptoms similar to those of schizophrenia, and glutamatergic agonists may be useful in treating schizophrenia.


Salts of glutamic acid.


Flavor enhancer.


The main excitatory transmitter; it stimulates (enhances) neuronal activity. It is involved in learning and memory and it is also a signal to block in order to calm and sedate. Linalool, the active ingredient in lavender and other calming plants, blocks glutamate (NMDA) receptors.


An amino acid which, along with aspartate, is a major excitatory chemical neurotransmitter method of communication between neurones in the central nervous system. The two amino acids are found in the cortex and cerebellum of then brain and in the spinal cord.


 


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