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Glutamatergic Signaling

Meaning

Glutamatergic Signaling refers to the principal excitatory neurotransmission system in the central nervous system, mediated by the abundant amino acid glutamate. This critical signaling pathway is fundamentally important for higher-order brain functions such as robust synaptic plasticity, efficient learning, and long-term memory formation, acting primarily through a variety of receptors including NMDA and AMPA subtypes. Balanced glutamatergic activity is crucial for health; excessive signaling can unfortunately lead to excitotoxicity and neuronal damage, while insufficient activity severely impairs cognitive function.