glutamate hypothesis

the theory that decreased activity of the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate is responsible for the clinical expression of schizophrenia. The hypothesis, supported by a number of studies, developed from observations that administration of NMDA receptor antagonists, such as PCP (phencyclidine) and ketamine, produce psychotic symptoms in humans. See also dopamine hypothesis.

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Psychology term of the day

July 27th 2024

ramus

n. (pl. rami)

1. a branch of a blood vessel or a nerve.

2. any of the large branches of a spinal nerve after it emerges from the spinal column, notably the anteriorly directed ventral ramus and the posteriorly directed dorsal ramus. These distribute motor and sensory nerve fibers to other, smaller nerves.

3. any of the short nerve branches that arise from the ventral ramus and communicate with sympathetic ganglia (see rami communicantes).