Glutamate receptor ionotropic, N-methyl-D-aspartate 2B subunit (GluN2B)

Glutamate receptor ionotropic, N-methyl-D-aspartate 2B subunit (GluN2B) is a protein subunit encoded by the GRIN2B gene. It forms part of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDA receptor), which is a heterotetrameric ligand-gated ion channel in the central nervous system critically involved in synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory[2][3][4][7]. The functional NMDA receptor commonly includes two GluN1 subunits and two GluN2 subunits, with GluN2B conferring unique pharmacological and physiological properties. GluN2B-containing NMDA receptors are prominently expressed during early brain development and in certain adult brain regions, and are important for Ca2+ influx and downstream signaling. Mutations or altered expression in GRIN2B are implicated in various neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders[2][4][6]. Selective inhibitors of GluN2B have been explored as potential therapeutics for depression, schizophrenia, neuropathic pain, and neurodegenerative diseases, although off-target or excessive inhibition can cause adverse psychiatric and cognitive effects[4][7].

Other names

NMDA receptor subunit 2BN-methyl-D-aspartate receptor subunit 2BGRIN2BNR2B

Allosteric antagonism (e.g., selective GluN2B allosteric inhibitors such as ifenprodil); Channel blockade; Negative modulation of calcium influx; Inhibition of synaptic transmission mediated by GluN2B-containing NMDA receptors