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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about amino acid neurotransmitters is incorrect?
A
Glycine functions mainly as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the spinal cord.
B
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is derived from glutamate.
C
Glutamate acts as the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.
D
Aspartate is a major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the role of amino acid neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit signals across synapses in the nervous system. Amino acid neurotransmitters include glycine, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), glutamate, and aspartate.
Step 2: Analyze the statement about glycine. Glycine is known to function primarily as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the spinal cord. This statement is correct based on its physiological role.
Step 3: Examine the statement about GABA. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is synthesized from glutamate through the action of the enzyme glutamate decarboxylase. This statement is also correct.
Step 4: Evaluate the statement about glutamate. Glutamate is widely recognized as the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. This statement is accurate.
Step 5: Assess the statement about aspartate. Aspartate is not considered a major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. Instead, it is typically classified as an excitatory neurotransmitter. Therefore, this statement is incorrect, making it the correct answer to the question.