Abstract
Individual synapses vary enormously in their biochemical properties and functionality. The neurotransmitters released, the receptors activated, and the ensuing physiological responses are all variable, and susceptible to modification through a variety of mechanisms. The regulation of neurotransmitter receptors is a central mechanism by which the signaling properties of a synapse and a cell may be controlled. Excitatory neurotransmitter receptors are primarily localized to the postsynaptic dendritic compartment, anchored within the postsynaptic density (PSD). In their lifetime, receptors are subject to alternative splicing, differential sorting and compartmentalization. Moreover, these processes are influenced by activity driven protein trafficking, post-translational modifications and interaction with an overwhelmingly increasing number of proteins enriched at excitatory synapses. The diverse repertoire of regulatory mechanisms contributes to the amazing heterogeneity of synapse morphology and function in the central nervous system. Changes in receptor trafficking has been also implicated in shaping synaptic activity and plasticity, and defects in these processes may underlie several pathological states.
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Hines, R., El-Husseini, A. (2007). Excitatory Amino Acid Neurotransmitter Regulation. In: Zhuo, M. (eds) Molecular Pain. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-75269-3_6
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-75269-3_6
Publisher Name: Springer, New York, NY
Print ISBN: 978-0-387-75268-6
Online ISBN: 978-0-387-75269-3