Referenced in: none

Automatically associated channels: Kir2.3

Title: GluN3A: an NMDA receptor subunit with exquisite properties and functions.

Authors: Laura A Kehoe, Yann Bernardinelli, Dominique Muller

Journal, date & volume: Neural Plast., 2013 , 2013, 145387

PubMed link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24386575

Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) are pivotal for synaptic plasticity and memory formation. Conventional NMDAR consist of heterotetrameric structures composed of GluN1 and GluN2 subunits. A third subunit, GluN3, can also assemble with NMDAR subunits giving a remarkable modification of their heteromeric structure, forming a "nonconventional" NMDAR. As a consequence, the stoichiometry and kinetic properties of the receptors are dramatically changed. Among the GluN3 family, the GluN3A subunit has been the focus of a large amount of studies during recent years. These studies reveal that GluN3A is transiently expressed during development and could play a role in the fine tuning of neuronal networks as well as associated diseases. Moreover, GluN3A distribution outside the postsynaptic densities, including perisynaptic astrocytes, places it at a strategic position to play an important role in the interactions between neurons and glial cells. This review highlights GluN3A properties and addresses its role in neurophysiology and associated pathologies.