A new role for sodium in the brain

Dr. Derek Bowie
Dr. Derek Bowie

Findings identify a novel pharmaco-logical target for drug development

Researchers at McGill University have found that sodium – the main chemical component in table salt – is a unique “on/off” switch for a major neurotransmitter receptor in the brain. This receptor, known as the kainate receptor, is fundamental for normal brain function and is implicated in numerous diseases, such as epilepsy and neuropathic pain. Continue reading