Neuropharmacology of taurine in the central nervous system

Abstract

Starting from the findings of Curtis and Watkins in 1960, many studies have been performed to characterize the inhibitory action of taurine on central neurons. Neurochemical and electrophysiological studies have shown the possibility that taurine is an inhibitory neurotransmitter or a neuromodulator. Pharmacological studies have suggested an antiepileptic effect of taurine. The aim of this review is to describe the present status and further aspects of taurine in the central nervous system.