Scientists at Johns Hopkins have discovered a new function for a group of brain proteins called GluDs that until now were thought to be mostly inactive. These proteins play an active role in brain cell communication and making connections between them. The discovery is significant because GluD proteins are linked to anxiety, schizophrenia and movement disorders. Research suggests that by targeting these proteins, it could be possible to influence brain activity in new ways. Changing understanding of the function of these proteins opens up new possibilities for understanding and potentially treating neuropsychiatric and neurological conditions. The study represents a breakthrough in understanding how these long-mysterious molecules work in the brain.