Modulation of AMPA receptor function by auxiliary subunits

Abstract
AMPA receptors are ionotropic glutamate receptors that mediate the majority of fast excitatory transmission in the central nervous system. Their function depends not only on the composition of the subunits GluA1-4, but also on the interaction with auxiliary subunits. Several auxiliary subunits have been identified in proteomic analyses over the last years and we are beginning to understand the complex control of these proteins on physiological properties and membrane-transport of AMPA receptors. Auxiliary subunits such as TARPs, cornichons, and CKAMP44 influence receptor localization on the cell membrane, modulate receptor gating, and play a role for synaptic short-term and long-term plasticity.

Source: e-Neuroforum - May 22, 2015 Category: Neuroscience Source Type: research