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Agmatine: a novel neurotransmitter?
1Division of Neurology, Cornell University Medical College, New York, New York 10021, USA.
Advances in Pharmacology (San Diego, Calif.)
|November 5, 1997
Summary
Agmatine shows potential as a neurotransmitter or neuromodulator in the brain. Further research is needed to establish its precise role in normal brain function due to a lack of specific agents targeting its synthesis or breakdown.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neurochemistry
Background:
- Agmatine is a molecule found in the brain.
- Evidence suggests agmatine may function as a neurotransmitter or neuromodulator.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence supporting agmatine's potential role as a neurotransmitter-neuromodulator.
- To identify limitations in current understanding and future research directions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on agmatine.
- Analysis of agmatine's synthesis, storage, release, receptor interaction, and biological actions in the central nervous system.
Main Results:
- Agmatine is synthesized, stored, and released in the brain.
- It is present in neurons and axon terminals with varied distribution.
- Agmatine interacts with specific receptors and produces biological effects in the central nervous system.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence supports the hypothesis that agmatine fulfills criteria for a neurotransmitter-neuromodulator.
- The exact role of agmatine in normal brain function remains undetermined.
- Development of agents selectively impacting agmatine's biosynthesis or degradation is crucial for further investigation.