AMINO ACIDS IN RELATION TO CENTRAL NEURO-TRANSMISSION AND POSSIBLE RELEVANCE IN HUMAN DISEASE

Summary

Evidence is presented for the role of certain naturally occurring amino acids as centrally acting excitatory and inhibitory neuro-transmitters. The suggestion is made that the relative balance between them at various central synaptic sites could be important for the normal functioning of the central nervous system. Any excessive shifting of this synaptic balance might give rise to, or support the development of, various neuro-psychiatric syndromes. Therapeutic approaches based on these concepts are briefly touched on.