Model
Digital Document
Publisher
Florida Atlantic University
Description
Taurine, an endogenous ammo acid and neuromodulator, has been found to be
neuroprotective against numerous forms of neurotoxicity including glutamate-induced
excitotoxicity. Previously we have shown that taurine inhibits glutamate-induced
calcium influx through VGCCs and NMDA receptors. Although the neuroprotective
effects of taurine against excitotoxicity have been attributed to its intracellular Ca2+
regulatory functions, the complete mechanism underling taurine neuroprotection has
remained unclear. Using primary rat cortical neuronal cell cultures, we have determined
key cytosolic components to the mechanism of taurine neuroprotection. In this study we
have found that taurine inhibits excitotoxicity by suppressing glutamate-induced
elevations in [Ca2+]i, preventing calpain activation, and inhibiting reductions in Bel-
2:Bax ratios and consequently activation of the intrinsic pathway.
neuroprotective against numerous forms of neurotoxicity including glutamate-induced
excitotoxicity. Previously we have shown that taurine inhibits glutamate-induced
calcium influx through VGCCs and NMDA receptors. Although the neuroprotective
effects of taurine against excitotoxicity have been attributed to its intracellular Ca2+
regulatory functions, the complete mechanism underling taurine neuroprotection has
remained unclear. Using primary rat cortical neuronal cell cultures, we have determined
key cytosolic components to the mechanism of taurine neuroprotection. In this study we
have found that taurine inhibits excitotoxicity by suppressing glutamate-induced
elevations in [Ca2+]i, preventing calpain activation, and inhibiting reductions in Bel-
2:Bax ratios and consequently activation of the intrinsic pathway.
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