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Adaptation of Microelectrode Array Technology for the Study of Anesthesia-induced Neurotoxicity in the Intact Piglet Brain
Published on: May 12, 2018
Glutamate antagonists are neurotoxins for the developing brain
Angela M Kaindl1, Chrysanthy Ikonomidou
1Department of Pediatric Neurology, Charité, University Medical School, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1,13353 Berlin, Germany. angela.kaindl@charite.de
Neurotoxicity Research
|April 24, 2007
Summary
Disruptions in excitatory neurotransmitter signaling, like glutamate, during brain development can cause lasting harm. This review covers glutamate
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Neuroscience
- Neuropharmacology
Background:
- Neurotransmitters and neuromodulators are crucial for nervous system development.
- Altered neurotransmitter signaling during critical developmental periods can result in permanent neurological damage.
- Neuroactive drugs and environmental toxins can disrupt neurotransmitter signaling, potentially causing neurological abnormalities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the developmental expression of the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate and its receptors.
- To briefly discuss glutamate receptor antagonists.
- To present evidence on the adverse effects of glutamate receptor antagonists in the developing brain.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of developmental neurobiology studies.
- Examination of research on glutamate receptor antagonists.
- Synthesis of clinical and experimental data on neurodevelopmental effects.
Main Results:
- Glutamate plays a key role in excitatory neurotransmission in the mammalian central nervous system.
- The expression of glutamate and its receptors follows a precise timetable during brain development.
- Glutamate receptor antagonists have demonstrated adverse effects on the developing brain.
Conclusions:
- The precise regulation of glutamate signaling is vital for normal brain development.
- Interference with glutamate pathways during development poses a significant risk for neurological abnormalities.
- Further research is needed to fully understand and mitigate the risks associated with glutamate excitotoxicity in developing brains.
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