Metabotropic glutamate receptor

Metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) are a type of glutamate receptor that are active through an indirect metabotropic process. They are members of the group C family of G-protein-coupled receptors, or GPCRs. These receptors are found in the neurons of both the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.

Function

Metabotropic glutamate receptors are involved in a variety of physiological processes. They are responsible for modulating neuronal excitability, acting as a switch for different forms of synaptic plasticity, and regulating the production of new neurons in the adult brain (neurogenesis). They also play a role in the modulation of sensory information, including olfactory, taste, and visual information.

Classification

Metabotropic glutamate receptors are classified into three groups (Group I, II, and III) based on their G protein coupling, pharmacological profile, and distribution in the brain.

• Group I includes mGluR1 and mGluR5 and is primarily coupled to Gq/11, which activates Phospholipase C and causes the release of Inositol trisphosphate and Diacylglycerol.
• Group II includes mGluR2 and mGluR3 and is primarily coupled to Gi/o, which inhibits Adenylyl cyclase and decreases the production of cAMP.
• Group III includes mGluR4, mGluR6, mGluR7, and mGluR8 and is also primarily coupled to Gi/o.

Clinical significance

Metabotropic glutamate receptors are potential targets for the treatment of various neurological disorders, including schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, Fragile X syndrome, and anxiety disorders. Drugs that act on these receptors may also be useful in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and mood disorders.

See also

• Ionotropic glutamate receptor
• Glutamate (neurotransmitter)
• Neurotransmitter receptor

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