Ketamine alters neural activity in the cerebral cortex, silencing normally active neurons and activating neurons that are normally inactive. The ketamine activity-induced "switch" in brain regions associated with depression may help explain its treatment effects.
Researchers have revealed the 3D structure of NMDA receptor molecules that are critical for brain health. NMDA receptors are believed to contribute to a range of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, depression, stroke, and Alzheimer's disease. The new model could help with the development of novel treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders.
NYX-783, a newly discovered drug, helps modulate NMDA receptor function in neurons. The drug appears to be effective at suppressing the return of PTSD symptoms in rodent models.
NMDA receptor hypofunction is involved in the reduction of sleep spindles and delta oscillations, which appear in the brain during deep natural sleep. Findings confirm the role NMDA receptors play in sleep disorders that accompany psychotic states.
Brain connections strengthened with treatment from fast-acting antidepressants, such as ketamine, are consolidated during deep sleep. Researchers propose rapid antidepressant treatments share the ability to regulate both synaptic potentiation and homeostatic mechanisms, which may contribute to how the brain reorganizes its activity to defeat depression.
A rare autoimmune disorder popularized by the autobiography and movie "Brain on Fire" is triggered by an attack on NMDA receptors. The disease occurs when antibodies attack NMDA receptors in the brain, leading to memory loss, intellectual changes, seizures, and death.
Researchers have identified a new molecular mechanism that may play a role in the development of autism.
A major finding from researchers at Houston Methodist reveals a significant number of people diagnosed with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder may actually have a treatable immune system disorder. The condition causes NMDA receptors to stop functioning properly and can result in symptoms commonly associated with neuropsychiatric disorders.
Dysfunctional NMDA brain receptors appear to be responsible for common hearing problems in people with schizophrenia, researchers report.
A new study looks at the role glutamate plays in neuromuscular development.
A new study looks at the role nicotinic acetylcholine receptors play in Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers have discovered a key molecule that helps protect the brain against some neurodegenerative diseases.