positive regulation of glutamate secretion, neurotransmission

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that activates or increases the frequency, rate or extent of glutamate secretion, where glutamate acts as a neurotransmitter. [GO_REF:0000058, GOC:TermGenie, PMID:16782817]

Positive regulation of glutamate secretion is a complex biological process that involves a series of molecular events leading to the release of glutamate from presynaptic neurons. Glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, playing a crucial role in learning, memory, and synaptic plasticity.

The process begins with the arrival of an action potential at the presynaptic terminal. This depolarization opens voltage-gated calcium channels, allowing calcium ions to enter the terminal. Calcium influx triggers a cascade of events that ultimately lead to the fusion of synaptic vesicles containing glutamate with the presynaptic membrane.

Several mechanisms contribute to the positive regulation of glutamate secretion. One key mechanism involves the activation of protein kinases, such as protein kinase C (PKC) and calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII). These kinases phosphorylate various proteins involved in vesicle trafficking, docking, and fusion, promoting glutamate release.

Another important mechanism is the activation of SNARE proteins, a family of proteins that mediate vesicle fusion. SNARE proteins on the vesicle membrane interact with SNARE proteins on the presynaptic membrane, bringing the vesicle close to the plasma membrane and facilitating fusion.

The regulation of glutamate secretion is also influenced by a variety of presynaptic receptors, including metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) and presynaptic GABA receptors. Activation of certain mGluRs can enhance glutamate release, while activation of presynaptic GABA receptors can inhibit glutamate release.

In addition to these mechanisms, various other factors can influence the regulation of glutamate secretion, including the activity of presynaptic transporters, the availability of glutamate precursors, and the presence of modulatory molecules like neuropeptides.

In summary, positive regulation of glutamate secretion is a complex process that involves a multi-step pathway regulated by a variety of molecular mechanisms. Understanding these mechanisms is critical for understanding the role of glutamate in synaptic transmission and neuronal function, as well as for developing therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative disorders and other neurological conditions.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (5)