NMDA receptors are glutamate-activated ion channels with distinctive properties, including dependence on co-agonists and the electrical state of the receiving cell. They contribute to synaptic plasticity and the coordination of neural activity. Their role has…Continue Reading
Second-generation antipsychotics can reduce psychotic symptoms, and some have additional evidence for particular mood-related conditions. Effects vary between medicines and individuals. Improvement may involve less distress or preoccupation even when an experience does not disappear…Continue Reading
Synaptic plasticity is the capacity of connections between neurons to change with activity and experience. Glutamate receptors, including NMDA and AMPA receptors, play important roles in several forms of plasticity. These processes support learning and…Continue Reading
GABA is a major inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps regulate the timing and coordination of neural activity. Glutamate can activate GABA-producing interneurons, so reduced activity at an excitatory receptor may sometimes lead to less inhibition elsewhere.…Continue Reading
Glutamate hypotheses propose that altered glutamatergic signalling contributes to schizophrenia-related symptoms and cognitive difficulties. NMDA receptor hypofunction is one influential model, particularly when considered within circuits involving inhibitory interneurons and dopamine regulation. The aim is…Continue Reading
Antipsychotics can reduce the intensity, frequency or impact of hallucinations, delusions and disorganised thinking. Improvement may involve feeling less threatened or less compelled to act on an experience before its content fully changes. Some medicines…Continue Reading
Most established antipsychotics reduce D2-mediated dopamine signalling through antagonism or partial agonism. Many also affect serotonin, histamine, adrenergic or muscarinic receptors. These additional actions help explain differences in sedation, appetite, blood pressure and other effects…Continue Reading
Acute stress is a response to an immediate challenge, such as conflict, illness, an unfamiliar setting or a sudden loss. Attention narrows, bodily arousal increases and the person prepares to respond. These reactions can be…Continue Reading
D2 receptors are central targets of most established antipsychotics. They usually signal through Gi/o proteins and influence cyclic AMP, ion channels and other cellular processes. They occur on receiving neurons and as autoreceptors involved in…Continue Reading
Chronic stress results from demands that persist, such as financial insecurity, unsafe housing, discrimination or ongoing conflict. Repeated strain can affect sleep, physical health and the capacity to manage everyday tasks. In schizophrenia, these pressures…Continue Reading