Sculptor and Destroyer

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This captivating exploration of glutamate, the neurotransmitter essential for brain structure and function, reveals its dual role as both a sculptor and destroyer. Over 90 percent of neurons in the human brain utilize glutamate, which not only influences brain function but also governs the growth of dendrites and synapse formation during development. Mark Mattson explains how glutamate underpins key cognitive abilities such as learning, memory, creativity, and imagination. However, he also addresses its darker implications, highlighting how imbalances in glutamatergic activity can lead to behavioral disorders like autism, schizophrenia, chronic anxiety, and depression. More alarmingly, glutamate can trigger neuronal death, a phenomenon observed in conditions such as epilepsy, stroke, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, ALS, and Huntington’s disease. The book concludes by discussing how understanding glutamate's role in neuroplasticity can enhance brain health throughout life. Written in an engaging style, this work appeals to professionals in neuroscience, neurology, psychiatry, and psychology, as well as anyone interested in the complexities of the human brain.