Glutamic acid

International Numbering System (INS) for Food Additives: 620
Food additives Europe numbers:E620 

Glutamic acid is a fascinating molecule that wears two important hats in your body:

1. Building Block for Protein: Glutamic acid, along with other amino acids, is a fundamental unit used to construct proteins throughout your body. Almost all living beings rely on glutamic acid for protein synthesis [1]. Your body can even synthesize glutamic acid on its own, classifying it as a non-essential amino acid.
2. Major Excitatory Neurotransmitter: Within your nervous system, glutamic acid takes on a different role. Here, it transforms into glutamate, the most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain [2]. Glutamate plays a critical role in various brain functions, including:
   • Learning and Memory: Glutamate is involved in the formation and strengthening of connections between brain cells, which is essential for learning and memory [3].
   • Information Processing: Glutamate helps transmit signals between neurons, allowing for rapid communication within the brain.
   • Motor Function: Glutamate is involved in controlling muscle movement and coordination.

Additional Considerations:

• While crucial for brain function, excessive glutamate activity can be harmful and has been implicated in neurological disorders like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Alzheimer's disease [4].
• Glutamic acid itself is not typically used as a medical substance. However, research is ongoing to explore the potential role of regulating glutamate activity for treating neurological conditions.

Overall:

Glutamic acid is a versatile molecule that plays a vital role in both building your body's proteins and facilitating communication within your brain. While it's not directly used as a medication, understanding its role as a neurotransmitter is crucial for researchers investigating treatments for various neurological disorders.