Glutamate receptor ionotropic, kainate 5 (GluK5)

Glutamate receptor ionotropic, kainate 5 (GluK5) is a subunit of the kainate-type ionotropic glutamate receptors, which are cation-permeable ligand-gated ion channels activated by the neurotransmitter L-glutamate and kainic acid. It does not form functional channels on its own but instead assembles with "low-affinity" subunits (e.g., GluK1-3) to create heteromeric functional receptors. These receptors play a crucial role in regulating synaptic transmission, neuronal excitability, and network oscillations in the central nervous system. GluK5-containing receptors have been implicated in numerous CNS pathologies, including epilepsy, neurodegeneration, and psychiatric disorders, making them targets of significant scientific and therapeutic interest.

Other names

Excitatory amino acid receptor 2Glutamate receptor KA-2KA2EAA2GRIK5

Agonists (like glutamate and kainic acid) bind and activate the ion channel, leading to cation influx and neuronal depolarization. Antagonists (such as select barbiturates or specific research compounds) block channel activation, inhibiting synaptic transmission.