Metabotropic glutamate receptor 3

Metabotropic glutamate receptor 3 (mGluR3) is a type of metabotropic glutamate receptor that is encoded by the GRM3 gene in humans. These receptors are part of the G protein-coupled receptor family and are involved in a variety of physiological processes in the central nervous system.

Function

mGluR3 receptors are found in various parts of the brain, including the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and basal ganglia. They are predominantly located on astrocytes, a type of glial cell, and on the presynaptic terminals of neurons.

The primary function of mGluR3 is to modulate the release of glutamate, the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain. This modulation is achieved through a negative feedback mechanism, where activation of mGluR3 by glutamate inhibits further glutamate release. This helps to maintain the balance of excitation and inhibition in the brain, which is crucial for normal brain function.

Clinical significance

Alterations in mGluR3 function have been implicated in several neurological and psychiatric disorders. For example, reduced mGluR3 expression has been observed in the brains of individuals with schizophrenia, suggesting a potential role in the pathophysiology of this disorder. Similarly, variations in the GRM3 gene have been associated with the risk of developing bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder.

In addition, mGluR3 has been proposed as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of various conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, as well as chronic pain and drug addiction.

See also

• Metabotropic glutamate receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Glutamate (neurotransmitter)

References

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