AMPA receptor

AMPA receptor is a type of ionotropic transmembrane receptor for glutamate that mediates fast synaptic transmission in the central nervous system. Its name is derived from its ability to be activated by the artificial glutamate analog AMPA (α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid).

Structure

The receptor is a tetramer that can be formed by the combination of four subunits, designated as GluR1, GluR2, GluR3, and GluR4. Each subunit has four domains: an extracellular amino terminal domain (ATD), an extracellular ligand binding domain (LBD), a transmembrane domain (TMD), and an intracellular carboxyl terminal domain (CTD).

Function

AMPA receptors are responsible for the majority of fast excitatory synaptic transmission in the central nervous system. They are activated by the neurotransmitter glutamate, which binds to the LBD of the receptor. This binding causes the receptor to open its ion channel, allowing sodium ions to flow into the cell and potassium ions to flow out. This ion movement creates an excitatory postsynaptic potential.

Clinical significance

AMPA receptors have been implicated in a number of neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and epilepsy. They are also involved in long-term potentiation, a cellular mechanism underlying learning and memory.

See also

• NMDA receptor
• Kainate receptor
• Metabotropic glutamate receptor

References

AMPA receptor Resources
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