Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

2008

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Prentice, Howard

Abstract

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.

Extent

44 p.

Comments

Includes bibliography.|Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2008.|Charles E. Schmidt College of Science|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Includes bibliography.

Identifier

FA00000788

Format

pdf

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