Jennifer enjoys Asian food, but carefully avoids the food additive monosodium glutamate (MSG). If she eats it by mistake, she experiences a rapid pulse, chest pain, and nausea. Jennifer's symptoms might result from activity of which of the following neurochemicals?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Jennifer's symptoms are suggestive of an allergic reaction to monosodium glutamate (MSG), which is a flavor enhancer commonly used in Asian foods. MSG acts as an excitatory neurotransmitter by binding to glutamate receptors in the brain. It is possible that Jennifer's symptoms are the result of excessive glutamate release or over-stimulation of glutamate receptors, leading to symptoms such as rapid pulse and chest pain. GABA, serotonin, and dopamine are unlikely to be involved in this type of reaction.

Jennifer Enjoys Asian Food, but Carefully Avoids the Food Additive