A review links high MSG exposure to proposed mechanisms of neurodegeneration
Original source
The Role of Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) in Epilepsy and other Neurodegenerative Diseases: Phytochemical-based Therapeutic Approa-ches and Mechanisms. (opens in a new tab)Compass summarised this from the study's abstract.
Study details
- Study type
- Review
- Studied in
- Human, Animal
A 2023 review discusses how monosodium glutamate (MSG) may increase glutamate activity and neuronal excitability. It proposes that this could contribute to nerve-cell damage and examines plant-based compounds as possible treatments for MSG-related neurological effects.
Why this matters
The review discusses mechanisms that may be relevant to neurodegenerative diseases, including changes involving SOD1 and TDP-43. It does not provide evidence about ALS/MND in people or show that MSG causes ALS, and it does not change treatment.
Limitations and context
This is a review, not a clinical study or a new treatment trial. The source does not establish an MSG–ALS link, and it says the contribution of mutant SOD1 and TDP-43 aggregates to nerve-cell toxicity remains generally unknown. The proposed herbal approaches require further evidence in relevant models and people.