The N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, is a glutamate receptor and ion channel found in neurons. The NMDA receptor is one of three types of ionotropic glutamate receptors, the other two being AMPA and kainate receptors. Depending on its subunit composition, its ligands are glutamate and glycine.

What does a NMDA receptor do?

The NMDA receptor is thought to be very important for controlling synaptic plasticity and mediating learning and memory functions. The NMDA receptor is ionotropic, meaning it is a protein which allows the passage of ions through the cell membrane.

What does NMDA do in the brain?

NMDA receptor is a type of G protein-coupled ionotropic glutamate receptor that plays a crucial role in regulating a wide variety of neurological functions, including breathing, locomotion, learning, memory formation, and neuroplasticity.