Glutamate receptor ionotropic NMDA type subunit 2B (NR2B (also known as GluN2B))

Glutamate receptor ionotropic NMDA type subunit 2B (NR2B/GluN2B) is a critical component of the NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor complex, an ionotropic glutamate receptor found in the central nervous system[1][2][3][7]. The full NMDA receptor is a heterotetramer usually containing two NR1 (GluN1) and two NR2 (typically A-D, with NR2B encoded by GRIN2B)[1][2]. The NR2B subunit confers unique biophysical and pharmacological properties to the receptor, including modulation of synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory[1][2][3]. The NR2B-containing receptor requires binding of glutamate and co-agonist glycine and is highly permeable to calcium ions, with channel activity further regulated by magnesium and allosteric modulators such as zinc and ifenprodil[1][3][4]. Drugs targeting NR2B-containing NMDA receptors are in development or use for neurological and psychiatric conditions but pose challenges including cognitive, psychotomimetic, and potential neurotoxic effects[1][3][4]. Alterations in NR2B function have implications for a wide range of CNS diseases, from neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders to acute neuronal injury[2][3].

Other names

GluN2BNR2BGlutamate receptor ionotropic, NMDA 2BGRIN2B (gene name)

Non-competitive antagonism (e.g., by ifenprodil, ketamine, memantine, MK-801); Channel blockade (e.g., by memantine or ketamine); Allosteric inhibition (if modulators bind the amino-terminal domain); Voltage-dependent blockade (e.g., by magnesium)