Effect of Dietary Monosodium L-Glutamate on Some Brain and Liver Metabolites in Rats

SummaryRats in each group receiving MSG exhibited hyperirritability. While levels of glutamate, glutamine, aspartate, DNA, protein, and GAD in brain remained relatively constant, a significant decrease in GABA levels was noted along with a significant increase in succinate levels. Analysis of liver indicated no effect of dietary MSG on protein, RNA-P, DNA-P, glutamate, lactate, malate, or α-GPO4. Aspartate levels were significantly increased. The decrease in brain GABA levels may be related to the observed increased irritability.