A team of researchers has improved the protective effect of a molecule against ischemic stroke, which is caused by an interruption of blood flow to the brain.
"Glutamate is an essential neurotransmitter for neuronal communication, learning and memory processes, yet above a certain concentration, it becomes toxic to neuronal cells," said researcher Ahlem Zaghmi from the Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS) in Canada.
The modified molecule, glutamate-oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT), is already known for its therapeutic effects. This enzyme breaks down the glutamate circulating in the bloodstream which creates a kind of siphon effect.
"By decreasing concentrations of this neurotransmitter in the blood, excess glutamate in the brain will move out to compensate for the loss. This "siphons" the glutamate out of the brain," she said.
The research team now intends to observe the longer-term effect of the molecule and explore applications to other neuronal diseases.
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