Glutamate

Glutamate is the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain. It is required for learning and memory. Low levels can lead to tiredness and poor brain activity. Increased levels of glutamate can cause death to the neurons (nerve cells) in the brain. Dysfunction in glutamate levels is involved in many neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s and Tourette’s. High levels also contribute to depression, OCD and autism.