N-Methyl-D-aspartate receptor

N-Methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) is a type of ionotropic glutamate receptor that is essential for controlling synaptic plasticity and memory function. The NMDAR is named for its ability to bind the agonist N-Methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA).

Structure

NMDARs are heterotetramers composed of two GluN1 and two GluN2 subunits. Each subunit has four domains: an extracellular amino terminal domain (ATD), an extracellular ligand binding domain (LBD), a transmembrane domain (TMD), and an intracellular carboxyl terminal domain (CTD).

Function

NMDARs are key in controlling synaptic plasticity and memory function. They are unique among ionotropic glutamate receptors in that they are both ligand-gated and voltage-dependent. This means that they require the binding of glutamate or aspartate and a postsynaptic depolarization to remove the magnesium (Magnesium) block and allow calcium (Calcium) ions to flow into the cell.

Clinical significance

NMDARs have been implicated in several neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease. They are also the target of the drug Ketamine, which is used as an anesthetic and for the treatment of depression.

See also

• Glutamate receptor
• Ionotropic glutamate receptor
• Alzheimer's disease
• Parkinson's disease
• Huntington's disease