Chinese salt contains high amount of MSG-mono sodium glutamate. Other sources are GMO foods- upregulate NMDA receptors.

Glutamate-induced Ca2+ influx can cause ROS production by activating . membrane, as well as caspase inhibitors, can protect neurons against excitotoxic death.

You could use L-glutamate (monosodium salt - monohydrate).

You will be stimulating all glutamate receptors (including ionotropic and metabotropic), an alternative is to use NMDA to specifically stimulate NMDA receptor-mediated excitotoxicity. In addition you may want to have a Mg2+-free or low Mg2+ solution to make sure there is enough activation of NMDA receptors if you add NMDA. Good luck with your experiments!