Medycyna Wet. 63 (8), 896-899, 2007
Kania B. F., Cieciera M.
Current views on the structure, molecular function and role of the glutamate receptors NMDA
The paper reviews the terminology, molecular activity and role of the NMDA glutamate receptors. As excitatory aminoacid receptors these receptors are generally classified as ionotropic (NMDA, AMPA, KA) and metabotropic depending (mGluR1-8) on whether they form ion channels or are coupled to G-proteins, respectively. Recent investigations indicated the essential role of the NMDA receptors in the nociceptive processus modulation. Recent progress has been made in the development of specific antagonists – such as MK-801, araxines, mementine, DL-AP-3, and others – for these receptors, and can siginicantly facilitate prophilaxy and therapy in different types of pain.
Keywords: NMDA glutamate receptors, classification