BIOENERGETICS OF ACETATE, GLUTAMINE, GLUTAMATE AND NEUROPROTECTION

Abstract

Glutamate, a non-essential amino acid, is an excitatory neurotransmitter of the central nervous system (CNS), released during the nerve impulse. In situations of brain pathology, the accumulation of glutamate in the extracellular space causes neuronal damage and, eventually, apoptosis. Many studies have reported that glutamate cytotoxicity is associated with several neurological diseases. In this context, acetate, a short-chain fatty acid, can benefit the CNS energetically and structurally. Acetyl-coenzyme A, a metabolically active form of acetate, is used as a substrate in biochemical pathways involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins, in addition to increasing histone acetylation, altering the expression of inflammatory genes. In this way, the review brings a look at the bioenergetics of acetate, glutamine glutamate and neuroprotection for a better understanding and treatment of neuropathologies, such as neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration.