The connections between neurons are more complex than we imagined

Photo: psicologiaymente.com

Barcelona (Spain), November 28 (EFE) .- Spanish and French researchers have discovered that transfers between neurons are more complex than previously thought.

The research, published by the magazine & # 39; eLife & # 39 ;, identified new types of glutamate receptors, a group of essential proteins that can transmit nerve impulses from one neuron to another, redefining their classification, considered final 20 years

Work has shown that the family of glutamate receptors (forming ion channels) has four subfamilies never described before and that instead of being organized into six classes currently recognized, there would be a dozen.

The researchers also showed their surprise, as they discovered that animals with a much simpler nervous system than humans, possess a greater diversity of glutamate receptors and in some cases even a more receivers.

The results could have applications in the field of neurosciences and will force the scientific community to redefine the current classification of neurotransmitters accepted for more than 20 years.

Because it "is insufficient and dominated by a too anthropocentric vision of the evolution", explained the researchers of the Sant Pau Hospital of Barcelona, ​​of the Autonomous University of Barcelona, ​​of the University of Barcelona and the National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS).