Definitions

1. noun

A type of amino acid that is a major excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, involved in many physiological processes and plays a key role in learning and memory.

“The neuroscientist studied the effects of glutamate on the developing brain.”

2. noun

A salt or ester of glutamic acid, especially glutamic acid monohydrochloride, used in food and medicine as a flavor enhancer and as an excitatory neurotransmitter in research.

“Glutamate is commonly used in Asian cuisine as a flavor enhancer.”

3. noun

A type of ionotropic glutamate receptor that is involved in the regulation of synaptic transmission in the brain.

“The study of NMDA receptors, a type of glutamate receptor, has led to a better understanding of learning and memory.”

4. verb

To excite or stimulate (a neuron or a neural pathway) with glutamate.

“The researcher glutamated the neurons to study their response to the neurotransmitter.”