excitotoxicity

Full Definition

Excitotoxicity is a pathological process by which nerve cells are damaged and killed by excessive stimulation from excitatory neurotransmitters, particularly glutamate. This occurs when glutamate receptors are overactivated, leading to massive calcium influx and subsequent cellular damage through oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and activation of death pathways. Excitotoxicity plays a significant role in stroke, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases.

In Context

• "NMDA receptor antagonists may protect against excitotoxicity following ischemic stroke." — neuroprotection study
• "The hippocampal neurons showed clear signs of excitotoxicity after prolonged glutamate exposure." — in vitro experiment