Hello,
There are 2 theories that seems contradictory. the second one is scarry. Here are the 2 theory:
1ST THEORY- i found this link ( http://thebrain.mcgi...i_07_m_tra.html ) on this forum and it shows that the when the magnesium is removed from the NMDA receptor, a massive amount of calcium enters the cell and helps form more NMDA and AMPA recptor on the post synaptic neurone. Now i like this theory because it means my neaurones would grow in some kind of way.
2ND THEORY- this is scarry ... this link from wikipedia ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glutamate ) states that whenever there are too much glutamate neurotransmitters surrounding the cell, This process causes calcium ions to enter cells via NMDA receptor channels, leading to neuronal damage and eventual cell death, and is called excitotoxicity. The mechanisms of cell death include Damage to mitochondria from excessively high intracellular Ca2+ . Glu/Ca2+-mediated promotion of transcription factors for pro-apoptotic genes, or downregulation of transcription factors for anti-apoptotic genes. Excitotoxicity due to glutamate occurs as part of the ischemic cascade and is associated with stroke and diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, lathyrism, autism, some forms of mental retardation and Alzheimer's disease.
Now i'm taking Aniracetam right now and I was told it modulates the AMPA and NMDA receptors through high stimulation (glatamate release). I NEED to be calmed down by someone who understands this better than me.... i REALLY hope someone can correct me on this because from what i understand, my neurones are going suicidal right now.
PLEASE HELP !!!
Edited by sunshinefrost, 10 September 2009 - 06:25 PM.