Glutamate receptor ionotropic, kainate 4 (GRIK4)

Glutamate receptor ionotropic, kainate 4 (GRIK4) is a subunit of kainate-type ionotropic glutamate receptors—ligand-gated ion channels that mediate fast excitatory neurotransmission in the central nervous system[1][2][3][4][7]. GRIK4 forms functional heteromeric assemblies, mainly with GRIK2, and is highly expressed in the CA3 region of the hippocampus[2]. This subunit, encoded by the GRIK4 gene, contributes to neuronal signaling, regulation of synaptic plasticity, and is implicated in memory, mood, and neurodevelopment[1][2][4]. Genetic variants in GRIK4 are associated with susceptibility to various neuropsychiatric disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, and autism spectrum disorders, and have shown predictive value for antidepressant response in some cases[1][2][3]. GRIK4 also plays a role in excitotoxicity, and its dysfunction or genetic modulation can impact anxiety, locomotion, and sensorimotor gating in animal models[2]. There are currently no approved targeted therapies for GRIK4, but the receptor is an established research and potential therapeutic target in neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disease[1][2][3][4].

Other names

EAA1KA1GluK4Excitatory amino acid receptor 1Glutamate receptor KA1glutamate receptor KA-1GRIKGluK4(alt_5'UTR)putative NMDtranscript(altAcc_e11)

Modulation of ionotropic glutamate signaling. Cation channel permeation upon glutamate binding. Receptor antagonism (for kainate receptor blockers). Inhibition of excitotoxicity via functional blockade.