An amino acid (see AMINO ACIDS) which, along with aspartate, is a major excitatory chemical neurotransmitter – method of communication between neurones (see NEURON(E)) – in the central nervous system. The two amino acids are found in the cortex and cerebellum of the BRAIN and in the SPINAL CORD.
A food additive that is used as a flavour enhancer and seasoning. Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is the sodium salt of an amino acid. A short-lived illness involving pain in the neck and chest, palpitations, feeling hot, and a headache may occur in some people after eating food to which large amounts of MSG have been added.... monosodium glutamate