D-cycloserine, a positive modulator of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, enhances performance of learning tasks in rats.

Glycine has recently been shown to positively modulate the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) subclass of acidic amino acid receptors which are important in neural pathways involved in learning and memory. We report that d-cycloserine (DCS), an antimycobacterial agent known to cross the blood-brain barrier, binds with high affinity to this glycine modulatory site, functions as a positive modulator, and facilitates performance of learning tasks in rats. In addition, DCS appears to be a potent cognitive enhancer at doses lower than those required for antibacterial activity. Based on these data, we propose that modulation of NMDA receptors via glycinergic mechanisms may be a means of influencing cognitive processes.