Glutamate- learning

[Oliver_123]

Explain the role of glutamate in learning?

Could someone please give me an answer to this that is relatively simple and clear. I know what is involved just finding it tricky to  write a solid answer

thanks

[emilyhobbes]

The role of glutamate, the primary excitatory neurotransmitter, in learning is that is involved in the long-term modifications at the synapse which occurs when information is learnt or a memory is formed. When the presynpatic neuron releases glutamate,  it changes the structure of the synapse, making the post-synpatic neuron more sensitive to future firings. This is a process involved in long-term potentiation, which improves the efficiency and effectiveness of communication between neurons, and hence, learning.

... or something like that 

[Oliver_123]

Thanks but what about its role with dopamine and NDMA receptors and promoting dentritic spikes and what not?

[emilyhobbes]

I doubt that would be necessary knowledge, and unless it was like, a 3 or 4 mark question, I wouldn't bother too much about it, but glutamate acts on two types of receptors, AMPA which makes post-synaptic neuron more likely to fire and NMDA, which is what causes the long-term modifications I mentioned earlier. The increased glutamate also stimulates dopamine production which results in proliferation of new dendritic spines, which makes the post-synpatic neuron more sensitive to future firings, and ultimately makes communication between neurons easier.

Really hoping this makes sense   

[HiddenUser]

I believe the release of Glutamate helps in long-term potentiation when received by the NMDA receptor. However the AMPA receptors for Glutamate stimulate the firing of the post-synaptic neuron. The release of glutamate leads to release of dopamine to, which leads to the growth of dendritic spines in the neurons, for additional pathways to be made.

[HiddenUser]

wow I was a tad late......that's embarrassing lol

[danielgb123]

I have this in my notes:

Glutamate is the primary (abundant) excitatory neuron (more likely to stimulate nerve impulse in another neuron; ie make it more likely to fire)
In conjunction with NMDA plays a key role in enabling LTP to occur (strengthens connections between neurons, enabling more efficient/effective transmission of information; and enables humans to learn)