ABSTRACT
Extensive research focusing on the amino acid, glutamate (Glu), has documented the central role played by this compound in both the normal and abnormal functioning of the central nervous system (CNS). Glu is now recognized to be the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the CNS, estimated to be released at up to half of the synapses in the brain. In addition, Glu is also an excitotoxin that can destroy CNS neurons by excessive activation of excitatory receptors on dendritic and somal surfaces.
