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l-glutamate as a central neurotransmitter: looking back
1Department of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Bristol BS8 1TD, U.K. jeffwatkins@onetel.net.uk
Biochemical Society Transactions
|August 30, 2000
Summary
L-glutamate, an amino acid, was long speculated to be involved in central nervous system function. Decades of research confirmed its role as a key excitatory neurotransmitter, with numerous receptor subtypes identified.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neuropharmacology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The role of l-glutamic acid (l-glutamate) in central nervous function has been debated for over 50 years.
- Early claims of cognitive enhancement were refuted, but investigations into its potential neurotransmitter function began in the 1950s.
Observation:
- Hayashi (1954) observed that l-glutamate could induce convulsions, suggesting a potential role as a central synaptic transmitter.
- Curtis and colleagues (1959) demonstrated that l-glutamate excited central neurons, consistent with an excitatory transmitter function, despite some contradictory evidence.
Findings:
- Despite initial skepticism lasting two decades, compelling evidence eventually established l-glutamate as a major excitatory neurotransmitter.
- Extensive research over the past 20 years has identified diverse glutamate receptor subtypes crucial for excitatory synaptic transmission.
Implications:
- Understanding glutamate's function is fundamental to comprehending excitatory neurotransmission in the brain.
- The discovery of various glutamate receptors opens avenues for targeted pharmacological interventions in neurological disorders.
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