GRIN2B

GRIN2B or Glutamate Ionotropic Receptor NMDA Type Subunit 2B is a protein that in humans is encoded by the GRIN2B gene. It is a subunit of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, which belong to the family of glutamate receptors.

Function

Glutamate receptors are the predominant excitatory neurotransmitter receptors in the mammalian brain and are activated in a variety of normal neurophysiologic processes. These receptors are heteromeric protein complexes with multiple subunits, each possessing multiple transmembrane domains and all arranged to form a ligand-gated ion channel. The classification of glutamate receptors is based on their activation by different pharmacologic agonists. The GRIN2B protein encoded by this gene makes up the 2B subunit of the NMDA receptor.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the GRIN2B gene have been associated with several neurodevelopmental disorders, including schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, and intellectual disability. These mutations can lead to altered receptor function, which can affect neuronal signaling and synaptic plasticity, processes that are critical for learning and memory.

Research

Research into GRIN2B and its role in neurodevelopmental disorders is ongoing. Understanding the function of this gene and its encoded protein could lead to new treatments for these disorders.

See also

• NMDA receptor
• Glutamate receptor
• Neurodevelopmental disorder