GRIA3

GRIA3 or Glutamate Ionotropic Receptor AMPA Type Subunit 3 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the GRIA3 gene. It is located on the X chromosome and is involved in the transmission of neurotransmitters in the brain.

Function

GRIA3 is a subunit of AMPA receptors (α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid), which are responsible for fast synaptic transmission in the central nervous system. The receptor is a tetramer composed of four subunits (GRIA1-4), each of which can form functional ion channels.

Clinical Significance

Mutations in the GRIA3 gene have been associated with a variety of neurological and psychiatric conditions, including intellectual disability, schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorder.

Structure

The GRIA3 protein is composed of about 900 amino acids and has a molecular weight of approximately 100 kDa. It has four transmembrane domains and a large extracellular N-terminal domain.

Research

Research into GRIA3 has focused on its role in neurological and psychiatric disorders. Studies have found that mutations in the GRIA3 gene can lead to altered AMPA receptor function, which can in turn affect synaptic transmission and neuronal excitability.

See Also

• AMPA receptor
• Neurotransmitter
• Central nervous system
• Intellectual disability
• Schizophrenia
• Autism spectrum disorder