KAINIC ACID RECEPTOR Meaning and
Definition
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A kainic acid receptor is a specialized protein found in the brain and central nervous system that is involved in neurotransmission and the regulation of neuronal activity. It is a type of ionotropic glutamate receptor that specifically binds to and is activated by the neurotransmitter kainic acid.
Kainic acid receptors are classified into three subtypes: KA1, KA2, and GluK1-5. These receptors are primarily found in different regions of the brain, such as the hippocampus and cerebellum, where they play crucial roles in various physiological processes, including learning, memory, synaptic plasticity, and excitotoxicity.
When kainic acid is released into the synaptic cleft, it binds to the kainic acid receptors, triggering a series of events that result in the opening of ion channels, specifically permeable to calcium and sodium ions. This influx of ions leads to depolarization of the neuron and the subsequent transmission of electrical signals.
Dysregulation or dysfunction of kainic acid receptors can have significant implications for brain function and contribute to various neurological disorders, such as epilepsy and neurodegenerative diseases. Research efforts are ongoing to better understand the functioning and potential therapeutic implications of kainic acid receptors, aiming to develop novel drugs and treatments targeting these receptors to modulate their activity and restore normal brain function.
Common Misspellings for KAINIC ACID RECEPTOR
- jainic acid receptor
- mainic acid receptor
- lainic acid receptor
- oainic acid receptor
- iainic acid receptor
- kzinic acid receptor
- ksinic acid receptor
- kwinic acid receptor
- kqinic acid receptor
- kaunic acid receptor
- kajnic acid receptor
- kaknic acid receptor
- kaonic acid receptor
- ka9nic acid receptor
- ka8nic acid receptor
- kaibic acid receptor
- kaimic acid receptor
- kaijic acid receptor
- kaihic acid receptor
- kainuc acid receptor
