GRIK5

GRIK5 or Glutamate Ionotropic Receptor Kainate Type Subunit 5 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the GRIK5 gene. It is a member of the kainate family of glutamate receptors, which are composed of four subunits and function as ligand-activated ion channels.

Function

The GRIK5 protein is a subunit of glutamate receptors, which are the predominant excitatory neurotransmitter receptors in the mammalian brain. These receptors are involved in a variety of brain functions, including learning and memory, and they are implicated in several neurological disorders. The GRIK5 subunit is part of the kainate type of glutamate receptor, which is activated by the neurotransmitter glutamate and by the neurotoxin kainate.

Structure

The GRIK5 protein is composed of several domains, including a large extracellular N-terminal domain, a transmembrane domain, and an intracellular C-terminal domain. The N-terminal domain is responsible for ligand binding, while the transmembrane domain forms the ion channel. The C-terminal domain is involved in intracellular signaling and receptor trafficking.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the GRIK5 gene have been associated with several neurological disorders, including epilepsy, schizophrenia, and autism. In addition, variations in the GRIK5 gene have been linked to differences in pain sensitivity and the risk of developing chronic pain conditions.

Research

Research on GRIK5 has focused on its role in brain function and its potential as a target for the treatment of neurological disorders. Studies have shown that blocking the activity of GRIK5 can reduce seizure activity in animal models of epilepsy, suggesting that drugs targeting this receptor could be useful in the treatment of this disorder.

See also

• Glutamate receptor
• Kainate receptor
• Neurotransmitter