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Updated: May 26, 2026
09:24
High-Resolution Quantitative Immunogold Analysis of Membrane Receptors at Retinal Ribbon Synapses
Published on: February 18, 2016
[Structure and function of NMDA-type glutamate receptor subunits]
M E Flores-Soto1, V Chaparro-Huerta, M Escoto-Delgadillo
1Laboratorio de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, División de Neurociencias, CIBO, IMSS, México. mario.flores@hotmail.es
Neurologia (Barcelona, Spain)
|January 6, 2012
Summary
This review explores N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, crucial for brain function. It details their molecular composition, subunit variations, and role in synaptic plasticity, highlighting their calcium permeability.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Context:
- Glutamic acid (Glu) is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.
- Ionotropic receptors, including NMDA, AMPA, and kainate receptors, mediate rapid synaptic transmission.
- NMDA receptors are complex structures assembled from various subunits.
Purpose:
- To review the physiology and molecular composition of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor subunits.
- To examine the variants of NR1 and NR2 subunits and their role in receptor assembly.
- To understand the functional diversity and pharmacological properties arising from different subunit combinations.
Summary:
- NMDA receptors are macromolecular complexes formed by combinations of NR1, NR2, and NR3 subunits.
- The NR1 subunit exhibits extensive alternative splicing, generating diverse isoforms.
- The predominant form of the NMDA receptor involves NR1 and NR2 subunits, with variations in NR2 composition influencing function.
Impact:
- NMDA receptors are critical for synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory.
- Their significant permeability to calcium ions (Ca++) underscores their role in neuronal signaling and excitotoxicity.
- Understanding NMDA receptor composition and function is vital for developing targeted therapeutics for neurological disorders.
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