AMINO ACIDS IN THE BRAIN--ANALYSIS OF AMINO ACIDS IN VARIOUS AREAS OF THE CEREBRAL CORTEX.

Abstract

SummaryThe authors have described the actual conditions of amino acids of the brain in each area as analysed. Many suppositions can be made from these findings, but it is extremely difficult to substantiate these suppositions, especially because the subject is the human brain. It appears dangerous to draw any conclusions based on such suppositions, but some of the problems for future studies may be pointed out.1. Both glutamic acid and glutamine are contained in a considerable quantity in each area of the brain. Glutamine is found in greatest quantity in the motor and the occipital areas and it seems that glutamine plays an important role or that the inter‐reaction between glutamic acid and glutamine is very active in these areas.2. Phosphoethanolamine is contained in the greatest quantity in the frontal and the motor areas and it ssems to play an important role in the metabolism of amino acids containing phosphorus in the anterior half of the brain.3. Cystathionine is contained in a large quantity in the sensory, speech, and occipital areas, and it seems to play an important tole in the metabolism of amino acids containing sulfur.4. GABA seems to be greatly affected by postmortal changes and it is believed to be an important substance in the physiological and biochemical vital reactions of the brain.