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Updated: Jul 30, 2026
10:46
Using Enzyme-based Biosensors to Measure Tonic and Phasic Glutamate in Alzheimer's Mouse Models
Published on: May 3, 2017
[Glutamate antagonists in neurology].
1Neurologische Klinik der RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52057 Aachen. fblock@post.klinikum.rwth-aachen.de
Der Nervenarzt
|July 4, 2001
Summary
Glutamate antagonists show promise for treating neurological disorders by blocking excessive neurotransmitter activity. Further research aims to improve efficacy and reduce side effects for better neuroprotection.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Context:
- Glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.
- Dysregulation of glutamate signaling is implicated in numerous neurological diseases.
- Glutamate receptor overstimulation contributes to pathophysiological processes in the brain.
Purpose:
- To explore the therapeutic potential of glutamate receptor antagonists in neurological disorders.
- To review the clinical efficacy and side effects of current glutamate antagonist therapies.
- To highlight the need for developing novel antagonists targeting specific glutamate receptor subtypes.
Summary:
- Experimental data indicate that blocking glutamate receptors or inhibiting glutamate release can be beneficial in various disease models.
- Glutamate antagonists are currently used for Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, spasticity, and neuropathic pain.
- However, these antagonists have generally shown limited success in neuroprotection for cerebral ischemia and chronic neurodegenerative diseases, with some exceptions.
- Common side effects include central nervous system effects like psychosis, agitation, and disorientation.
Impact:
- Glutamate antagonists are established treatments for specific neurological conditions.
- Current limitations in neuroprotection highlight the need for more targeted therapeutic strategies.
- Future development focusing on disease-specific glutamate receptor subtypes may yield more effective treatments with improved safety profiles.
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