Glutamate Receptor Kainate Subtype (KAR)

Kainate receptors (KARs) are a subtype of ionotropic glutamate receptors that function as ligand-gated ion channels. They respond to the neurotransmitter L-glutamate and play key roles in regulating synaptic transmission and modulating neuronal circuits in the central nervous system. KARs are distinct from other glutamate receptor subtypes, such as AMPA and NMDA receptors, both structurally and functionally. They are tetrameric complexes composed of GluK1-GluK5 subunits. KARs mediate excitatory neurotransmission by permitting cation flow—primarily Na⁺—upon activation by glutamate. Unlike AMPA receptors, kainate receptors often act as modulators at both pre-synaptic and post-synaptic sites.

Other names

Kainate receptorGluK1GluK2GluK3GluK4GluK5GluR5GluR6GluR7KA1KA2

Ligand-gated ion channel activation/inhibition