Glutamate is a naturally occurring amino acid in the body that serves as a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. It plays a significant role in various physiological processes like memory, learning, and synaptic plasticity. However, excessive concentrations of glutamate can lead to neurodegeneration and neuronal cell death.
There are several synonyms for glutamate, including glutamic acid, which is the acidic form of glutamate. Other derivatives of glutamic acid are monosodium glutamate (MSG), glutamine, and aspartate. These compounds have similar properties to glutamate and have been identified as important neurotransmitters in the brain.
Additionally, N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are activated by glutamate and are essential for learning and memory processes in the brain.