GLUTAMATERGIC SYSTEM IN NEUROPSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS NEUROCHEMICAL BASIS, PATHOPHYSIOLOGY, AND THERAPEUTIC IMPLICATIONS

The glutamatergic system, centered on glutamate neurotransmission and its receptors, plays a pivotal role in brain function, including synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory. Dysregulation of glutamate signaling has been implicated in the pathophysiology of numerous neuropsychiatric disorders, such as major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and treatment-resistant depression.[1–3] This review explores the structure and function of glutamate receptors, including NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) and AMPA (α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid) subtypes, and discusses how alterations in glutamatergic transmission contribute to psychiatric symptoms. Pharmacological strategies targeting glutamatergic pathways, such as NMDA receptor modulators, AMPA receptor trafficking agents, and metabotropic glutamate receptor ligands, are highlighted. Emerging therapeutic approaches aimed at modulating glutamatergic function underscore the potential of this system as a target for novel treatments.