d-Serine and ketamine have the same mechanism of action on depression?

Mood/Energy Optimisation
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Just across a fascinating study that delves into how d-serine, an amino acid, can mimic the effects of ketamine in treating depression. d-Serine acts on N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) by binding to glycine sites, which are important for regulating brain function. In rats, researchers activated NMDARs using d-serine and compared its effects with saline (control), ketamine (an NMDAR blocker), and desipramine (a traditional antidepressant) on rats using the forced swim test. Both NMDAR enhancers (like d-serine) and blockers (like ketamine) can improve depression by targeting common receptors, namely alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors (AMPARs) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR).

These findings suggest that targeting similar pathways could lead to the development of new antidepressant medications that work similarly to ketamine but potentially with fewer side effects. Serine is also found in soybeans, nuts (especially peanuts, almonds, and walnuts), eggs, chickpeas, lentils, meat, and fish (especially shellfish).

Here’s the link:

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Is sarcosine ketamine basically

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Sarcosine and ketamine are both compounds that have been studied for their potential effects on the brain, particularly concerning depression and other mental health conditions. Here are some key similarities and differences:

Similarities:

  1. NMDA Receptor Modulation:
  • Ketamine: Ketamine is an NMDA receptor antagonist, meaning it blocks the action of this receptor, which can lead to rapid antidepressant effects.
  • Sarcosine: Sarcosine is a glycine transporter inhibitor, which increases the levels of glycine, an NMDA receptor co-agonist. By doing so, it indirectly influences NMDA receptor activity.
  1. Rapid Antidepressant Effects:
  • Both ketamine and sarcosine have shown potential for rapid antidepressant effects, though the mechanisms differ. Ketamine’s effects are more well-documented in this regard, with numerous studies supporting its efficacy in treatment-resistant depression.

Differences:

  1. Mechanism of Action:
  • Ketamine: Directly antagonizes NMDA receptors, leading to altered glutamate signaling and rapid changes in synaptic plasticity.
  • Sarcosine: Increases glycine levels by inhibiting its reuptake, which can enhance NMDA receptor function rather than inhibit it.
  1. Usage and Administration:
  • Ketamine: Typically administered via intravenous infusion or as a nasal spray under medical supervision due to potential for abuse and side effects.
  • Sarcosine: Usually taken as an oral supplement, with a more favorable safety profile and lower risk of abuse.
  1. Legal Status and Approval:
  • Ketamine: Used clinically in some countries for treatment-resistant depression and has a controlled substance status due to its potential for abuse.
  • Sarcosine: More widely available as a dietary supplement, with no controlled substance classification.
  1. Side Effects and Safety:
  • Ketamine: Can cause dissociative effects, potential for abuse, and other side effects like increased blood pressure and heart rate.
  • Sarcosine: Generally considered safe with fewer side effects, though long-term safety data is limited.
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Just did ketamine and I think that is one of the most profound therapy for depression, shouting down your default network have great impact, because you start to feel diffrent and realize that you can function in other state than you think was your normal.

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So is that a bad thing does sarcosine effect consciousness