Glutamate receptor ionotropic, NMDA 2D subunit (GluN2D)

The Glutamate receptor ionotropic, NMDA 2D subunit (GluN2D, encoded by the GRIN2D gene) is a component of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, an ionotropic glutamate receptor that forms heterotetrameric, ligand-gated cation channels highly permeable to calcium. NMDA receptors are essential mediators of excitatory neurotransmission in the central nervous system, supporting synaptic plasticity and long-term potentiation, fundamental processes for learning and memory. The GluN2D subunit confers distinct pharmacological and kinetic properties to NMDA receptors, including lower channel conductance, reduced sensitivity to magnesium block, and slower kinetics compared to other GluN2 subunits. Mutations or dysfunction affecting this subunit are associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, epilepsy, and other CNS pathologies. Because of its key regulatory role in CNS signaling, GluN2D-containing NMDA receptors are both physiologically important and potential therapeutic targets, though pharmacological modulation must carefully balance efficacy and safety.

Other names

NR2DNMDAR2DGRIN2DGlutamate receptor, ionotropic, N-methyl D-aspartate 2D

NMDA receptor antagonists block the open channel or glutamate/glycine binding. This includes uncompetitive antagonists (channel blockers such as memantine, ketamine) and competitive antagonists (inhibit binding of glutamate, e.g., AP5). Allosteric modulators also modulate receptor function via non-orthosteric sites.