N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor (NMDA receptor)

The NMDA receptor is a subtype of ionotropic glutamate receptors that functions as a ligand-gated ion channel permeable to calcium (Ca²⁺), sodium (Na⁺), and potassium (K⁺) ions. It plays a pivotal role in synaptic plasticity, learning, memory formation, and neurodevelopment. Activation requires simultaneous binding of glutamate and glycine, as well as membrane depolarization to relieve Mg²⁺ block. Altered NMDA receptor function has been linked to numerous neurological disorders due to its central role in excitotoxicity and neural circuit regulation.

Other names

NMDARGlutamate receptor, ionotropic, NMDA

Ligand binding (glutamate and glycine) and membrane depolarization relieve Mg²⁺ block, allowing influx of Ca²⁺/Na⁺ and efflux of K⁺ through the ion channel.