Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor (mGluR)

Metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) are a family of G-protein-coupled receptors that respond to the neurotransmitter glutamate. They function primarily via modulation—not direct mediation—of synaptic transmission. mGluRs exist as obligate dimers with large extracellular ligand-binding domains and are divided into three groups based on structure/function. Their broad expression pattern makes them attractive therapeutic targets for various CNS disorders due to their role in neuromodulation across multiple brain regions.

Other names

Glutamate Metabotropic ReceptormGlu1mGlu2mGlu3mGlu4mGlu5mGlu6mGlu7mGlu8

Modulation of glutamate-mediated neurotransmission via G protein-coupled signaling pathways, affecting downstream second messengers and neuronal excitability. Can either enhance or inhibit neuronal activity depending on the mGluR subtype and its signaling cascade.