Current knowledge of D-aspartate in glandular tissues

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Neuroendocrinology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Free D-aspartate (D-Asp) is present in significant quantities within glandular tissues.
• D-Asp's functional roles in vertebrate exocrine and endocrine glands are increasingly recognized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing literature on D-Asp in vertebrate glands.
• To emphasize the functional significance of D-Asp in both exocrine and endocrine systems.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating D-Asp in glandular tissues.
• Analysis of D-Asp's effects on secretion, development, and hormone synthesis.

Main Results:

• D-Asp detected in salivary glands, with high levels in the parotid gland during development.
• D-Asp stimulates exocrine secretion in the Harderian gland via ERK1/2 pathway and may induce vasodilation.
• D-Asp modulates pituitary hormone secretion (PRL, LH, GH, POMC/α-MSH, oxytocin), melatonin synthesis, and sex steroid production.

Conclusions:

• D-Asp is a crucial regulator of glandular functions, impacting development, secretion, and neuroendocrine control.
• Further research is needed to characterize D-Asp receptors, though NMDAr subunits show responsiveness in testes.