AMPA

AMPA (α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid) is a compound that is a specific agonist for the AMPA receptor, where it mimics the effects of the neurotransmitter glutamate. It was first isolated from a species of fungus, Amanita muscaria, and is also a product of the metabolic conversion of the amino acid isoleucine.

Structure and properties

AMPA is a synthetic compound that has a structure very similar to that of glutamate. It is composed of an α-amino group, a carboxyl group, and an isoxazole ring. The isoxazole ring is a five-membered ring with three carbon atoms, one nitrogen atom, and one oxygen atom. The presence of this ring is what distinguishes AMPA from glutamate and gives it its unique properties.

Biological role

AMPA acts as an agonist at the AMPA receptor, which is a type of ionotropic glutamate receptor. This means that it can bind to the receptor and activate it, causing an influx of ions into the cell. This influx of ions can lead to a variety of effects, including the generation of an action potential and the strengthening of synaptic connections.

AMPA receptors are found throughout the brain and are involved in a wide range of neurological processes. They play a crucial role in synaptic plasticity, which is the ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken over time. This is thought to be one of the main mechanisms underlying learning and memory.

Clinical significance

Because of its role in synaptic plasticity, AMPA and the AMPA receptor have been implicated in a number of neurological and psychiatric disorders. These include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, and depression. There is also evidence that AMPA receptor dysfunction may be involved in the development of certain types of epilepsy.

See also

• Glutamate receptor
• Neurotransmitter
• Synaptic plasticity

References

AMPA Resources
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