5-Bromowillardiine

5-Bromowillardiine is a synthetic analog of the naturally occurring excitatory amino acid, willardiine. It is primarily used in scientific research to study the function of glutamate receptors, particularly the AMPA and kainate subtypes of ionotropic glutamate receptors.

Chemical Structure and Properties

5-Bromowillardiine is a brominated derivative of willardiine, with the chemical formula C₆H₇BrN₂O₄. The presence of the bromine atom at the 5-position of the uracil ring distinguishes it from other willardiine analogs. This modification enhances its selectivity and potency at certain glutamate receptor subtypes.

Mechanism of Action

5-Bromowillardiine acts as an agonist at AMPA and kainate receptors, which are types of ionotropic glutamate receptors. These receptors are ligand-gated ion channels that mediate fast synaptic transmission in the central nervous system. Upon binding to these receptors, 5-Bromowillardiine induces a conformational change that opens the ion channel, allowing the influx of cations such as Na⁺ and Ca²⁺, leading to neuronal depolarization and excitatory postsynaptic potentials.

Research Applications

5-Bromowillardiine is widely used in neuropharmacological research to:

• Investigate the physiological and pathological roles of AMPA and kainate receptors in the brain.
• Study the mechanisms of synaptic plasticity, such as long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD).
• Explore the potential therapeutic targets for neurological disorders, including epilepsy, ischemic stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease.

Safety and Handling

As with many research chemicals, 5-Bromowillardiine should be handled with care. Appropriate safety measures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and working within a fume hood, are recommended to prevent exposure.

Also see

• Glutamate receptor
• AMPA receptor
• Kainate receptor
• Excitatory amino acid
• Neuropharmacology