Articles tagged with Glutamates
Researchers visualize nearly complete transport cycle of mammalian glutamate transporter homologue, revealing efficient mechanism for sodium and substrate molecules. The discovery sheds light on potential treatments for schizophrenia and other mental illnesses.
A recent study published in Science Advances has shed light on the molecular organization of synapses, revealing that glutamate receptors are directly connected to calcium channels and Munc-18-1. This new understanding could lead to a better comprehension of brain function and signal transmission.
This special issue of Neurochemical Research honors Vittorio Gallo's groundbreaking research on glutamate neurotransmission, including his development of cerebellar granule cell cultures and biochemical assays. Gallo's work has had a lasting impact on our understanding of neural development and regeneration.
Glutamate molecules have unexpected qualities, researchers show with a new analysis method. The technique measures activity and quantity of glutamate in brain cells, shedding light on its role in neurological disorders and diseases. This breakthrough could help improve understanding of pathologies and deliver real benefit.
A new study published in the journal Nutrients found that glutamates such as monosodium glutamate (MSG) can be used to reduce sodium in the food supply. The substitution of glutamates for salt can reduce sodium intake by up to 7-8 percent, according to the study. This finding is consistent with previous research and dietary guidelines ...
Researchers discovered that starved mice prefer sweet tastes and are less sensitive to bitter tastes, attributing this to a neural circuit in the hypothalamus. The study used optogenetic and chemogenetic techniques to activate AgRP-expressing neurons, which modulated taste preferences through two distinct pathways.
Researchers discover beta-amyloid blocks glutamate re-uptake in hyperactive neurons, causing false signals and impairments in signal processing. The soluble form of beta-amyloid dimers are responsible for the toxic effect, providing a new target for early treatment strategies.
Researchers have identified a specific role for astrocyte proteins in directing neural connections, using nanoparticles to deliver corrective proteins to replace missing proteins in neurodegenerative diseases. The study offers new hope for regrowing and repairing damaged brain networks.
Scientists from Sanford Burnham Prebys have revealed a new mechanism for ALS' pathogenesis and suggest that modulating membralin has potential in ALS therapy. A membralin-boosting gene therapy extended the survival of mice with ALS-like symptoms, providing an important new perspective into the disease.
Scientists studying microscopic worms discovered a brain circuit that underlies repetitive behavior. The study found defects in one protein cause animals to reorient themselves over and over again, similar to human psychiatric illnesses like Tourette's syndrome and autism spectrum disorders.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have found that a broccoli sprout compound can restore the brain's glutamate balance, which is linked to schizophrenia. The study suggests that supplementing with sulforaphane, a compound found in broccoli sprouts, may reduce the need for traditional antipsychotic medications.
Researchers have created a tiny, flexible sensor that can capture the rapid spike in brain chemical glutamate after spinal cord injury or traumatic brain disease. The sensor, implanted on the spinal cord, helps study how these injuries and diseases develop.
Researchers found that increasing glutamate levels in the hippocampus normalized anxious monkeys' threat responses, with effects dependent on area 25. This study suggests targeting the brain region and its connection to reduce anxiety.
A new Tel Aviv University study suggests that an intravenous injection of a potent enzyme can reduce inflammation and scarring that prevent neuronal regeneration after spinal cord injury. The treatment aims to lower levels of glutamate, released in toxic quantities after trauma, to moderate the damage and enable neuronal cells to survive.
A new study by neuroscientists at MIT's Picower Institute for Learning and Memory helps explain why strong synapses are stronger. The team found that strong active zones have higher calcium ion channels and more of the protein Bruchpilot, which clusters these channels, maximizing signal transmission. By studying how strong synapses dev...
Researchers at Wayne State University are investigating the link between glutamate and memory processes in aging populations. The study, led by Drs. Jeffrey Stanley and Naftali Raz, aims to identify subtle deviations in brain chemistry that may indicate impending cognitive decline.
Researchers at USTC have identified a novel pathway that enhances learning capacity by promoting the production of glutamate in the brain. Moderate UV exposure is found to elevate blood urocanic acid levels, which are later converted to glutamate, contributing to improved learning and potential neurobehavioral changes.
A new study reveals that QNZ-46 can protect the brain from damage caused by excessive glutamate release in stroke. The novel drug targets the source of damaging glutamate, leading to a reduced risk of myelin breakdown and functional deficit in white matter.
A new study finds that ADHD medications increase brain glutamate, associated with subsequent positive emotional changes. The research provides clues about the effects of these drugs on healthy brains and hints at a previously undiscovered link between glutamate and mood.
A study published in PNAS found that a protein called neuregulin 3 suppresses the release of glutamate, a neurotransmitter essential for learning, in people with schizophrenia. The researchers used genetic and biochemical techniques to investigate how neuregulin 3 controls neurotransmitters in the brain.
A Kenyan pilot study reveals a significant link between chronic pain and glutamate consumption, with participants experiencing improved symptoms after reducing MSG intake. The findings support the potential of dietary changes as an effective low-cost treatment option for developing countries.
A IU-led study found that the neurotransmitter glutamate plays a role in some alcohol cravings and relapses. Glutamate levels decreased in the brains of individuals with alcohol abuse disorder after viewing cues associated with drinking.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins used supercomputers to create an atomic scale map of how glutamate binds to a neuron in the brain. The study reveals that glutamate molecules follow specific pathways on the surface of glutamate receptors, with positively charged atoms guiding its negatively charged atoms.
Scientists have identified a new group of cells responsible for keeping humans awake. The supramammillary nucleus is part of the caudal hypothalamus and plays a crucial role in maintaining wakefulness. When activated, it promotes prolonged wakefulness during normal sleep periods.
A new study found elevated glutamate and glycine levels in patients with first-episode psychosis, indicating abnormal stimulation of NMDA receptors. The findings may help explain why glycine supplementation hasn't worked as a treatment for schizophrenia.
A new study reveals glutamate receptor-like proteins in plants control sperm navigation and fertilization, highlighting potential conserved functions between plant and human systems. The research suggests that these proteins may regulate cell-to-cell communication in sexual reproduction.
Rats without a certain glutamate receptor are less likely to seek out cocaine when it's difficult to obtain, but more likely to consume it when it's freely available. This suggests that the receptor plays a role in modulating reward-seeking behavior associated with drug addiction.
A new study suggests that D-serine, a dietary supplement, improves neuronal function in a patient with atypical Rett syndrome. The treatment, which was developed using personalized algorithms, has shown promising results in improving motor and cognitive symptoms.
These enzymes play essential roles in neurotransmitter synthesis and various physiological processes. A review highlights the importance of specific residues and regions for catalytic competence, including a mobile catalytic loop that undergoes an open-to-close conformational change upon coenzyme binding.
A new study by University of Maryland School Medicine researchers found adjusting kynurenic acid levels can reduce schizophrenia-like behavior in mice. Higher KYNA levels are associated with cognitive problems and reduced glutamate signaling in people with schizophrenia.
A Brown University study finds that overlearning visual perception tasks strengthens learning and prevents interference, while a longer break between tasks allows for similar performance on both. The study suggests that a temporary shift in neurotransmitter balance is key to the effect of overlearning.
Researchers at DZNE discovered that astrocytes potentiate harmful electrical discharges after a stroke, leading to increased brain damage. Modulating astrocyte calcium metabolism may be a potential starting point for treating stroke in humans.
Researchers found that Ceftriaxone reduces synaptic disruption and clears neuronal lines of communication in mice with Alzheimer's disease. Amyloid plaques prevent cell communication, leading to nerve cell death. The antibiotic restores glutamate levels, mostly restoring neuronal activity.
Researchers at UB and Johns Hopkins University discovered glutamate's crucial role in neuromuscular development, contradicting long-held assumptions. Glutamate receptors activate muscle fibers, while NMDA receptors play a key role in brain development and learning.
Scientists have identified the GLAST gene as a potential protector against tinnitus, a condition characterized by ringing in the ears. The study found that mice with normal GLAST function were less prone to developing tinnitus when exposed to toxic substances.
Researchers found that the LRP4 molecule is crucial for regulating glutamate levels in star-shaped brain cells called astrocytes. Without it, glutamate release is reduced, leading to intellectual impairment and seizures. However, blocking the receptor ATP eventually activates ameliorates the negative impact on mice.
UC Riverside researchers found that Toxoplasma infection disrupts neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to neurological disease in predisposed individuals. Treatment with ceftriaxone restored GLT-1 expression, reducing extracellular glutamate and normalizing neuronal function.
Researchers found that riluzole reversed key genetic changes associated with Alzheimer's and cognitive decline in rats. The drug restored expression of glutamate-clearing molecules and genes critical for neural communication and plasticity.
Researchers at UNC discovered that kappa opioid receptors inhibit the release of neurotransmitter glutamate in a brain region regulating emotion, leading to increased anxiety. The study found that activating KORs suppresses an anxiety-reducing pathway, making them potential targets for treating anxiety disorders.
Researchers discovered that lactate, a waste product of exercise, can protect neurons against excitotoxicity, a process that damages nerve cells after stroke or spinal cord injury. Lactate triggers the production of ATP, activating defense mechanisms that help neurons withstand overwhelming signals from NMDA receptors.
Researchers at UCLA found significant changes in brain chemicals GABA and glutamate in patients with sleep apnea, which can lead to symptoms like depression, stress, and memory loss. The study suggests that treating sleep apnea may help restore normal brain chemical levels.
Depression patients with systemic inflammation have elevated glutamate levels in motivation regions of the brain, which may guide personalized treatment. Elevated glutamate and myo-inositol levels are associated with anhedonia and slow motor function, suggesting a potential target for depression treatment.
The study reveals that glutamate triggers calcium release to stabilize GABAA receptors, maintaining proper excitatory-inhibitory balance. This finding has implications for understanding disorders related to imbalance, such as epilepsy and autism.
Researchers at Penn developed a new neuroimaging method that uses glutamate detection to identify epileptic lesions in patients with medication-resistant epilepsy. The GluCEST imaging method was tested on four patients and confirmed the location of the seizures with high accuracy.
Researchers at the University of Geneva have confirmed that glutamate is an essential energy source for the brain, which cannot store glucose. In its absence, the brain sends signals to the liver to increase glucose production, leading to muscle loss and growth deficits.
A new class of antidepressants has been found to work by targeting the brain's ability to respond to glutamate. The experimental therapies have been shown to produce an antidepressant effect in mice by altering brain signaling in particular neurons.
Three new studies suggest that activating mGluR2 can prevent relapse to cocaine and nicotine use in rodents, as well as reduce methamphetamine cravings. The studies also found that AZD8529, a selective mGluR2 enhancer, showed promising anti-addiction effects in non-human primate models.
A new research team at RI-MUHC has developed a glutamate biosensor platform using revolutionary protein engineering technology Cyto-iGluSnFR. This platform allows for the detection of glutamate levels in brain cells, enabling the screening of millions of chemical compounds to develop new drugs targeting EAATs.
Dopamine-producing neurons play a crucial role in signal transmission, influencing motor control, reward behaviour, motivation, and impulse control. The discovery reveals that glutamate facilitates rapid signal transmission, enabling the brain to respond quickly to stimuli.
A team of researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine has uncovered a previously unknown pathway that fine-tunes neural signaling by modulating glutamate NMDA-type receptors. This discovery could lead to new research avenues in understanding neurodegenerative diseases.
Research from King's College London found that spontaneous release of neurotransmitter glutamate causes neurons to branch and connect with each other, enabling the formation of synapses. This process plays a crucial role in regulating electrical signals through the brain.
Researchers found that riluzole treatment boosted spatial memory and communication between neurons in aging rats. The drug promoted the growth of thin spines, which are rapidly adaptable, and increased synaptic clustering.
Researchers have confirmed a critical brain reward pathway involving glutamate, linking it to the activation of the dopamine system. This discovery sheds light on the neurobiology of drug addiction and opens new avenues for research into motivation disorders.
A team of researchers has made a breakthrough in understanding how a powerful antibiotic agent is produced in nature. They found that a special enzyme called dehydratase plays a crucial role in giving the antibiotic its final shape and function.
Scientists have identified a control mechanism for the brain's processing of disappointment, which may be a key to treating depression. In experiments with rodents, researchers found that a small region above the thalamus secretes both excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters, allowing for a more subtle control of signaling.
Researchers have discovered that glutamate imaging using chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) technology can reveal ischemic lesions in the brain within the first three hours after a stroke. This breakthrough has the potential to speed up diagnosis and treatment, leading to better patient outcomes.
New research shows glial cells and neurons work together to protect the brain from oxidative stress, excitotoxicity, and other dangers. The study reveals a precise calibration system between neurons and astrocytes that ensures protective measures are only taken when needed.
Researchers found that amyloid beta stimulates Alpha7 nicotinic receptors, triggering astrocytes to release glutamate and overwhelming synapses. A newly modified Alzheimer's drug may block this destructive pathway.
Peritoneal dialysis has been shown to reduce glutamate levels in the blood following a stroke event, potentially preserving brain tissue and function. In a rat model of ischemic stroke, peritoneal dialysis reduced tissue damage in the brain.
Researchers found that full activation of a crucial brain-signaling molecule requires coordinated motion of its segments. The study may reveal additional drug-binding sites on the receptor, aiding the development of drugs for conditions like epilepsy and Parkinson's disease.