Referenced in: none

Automatically associated channels: Kir2.3

Title: P2X receptors: a third major class of ligand-gated ion channels.

Authors: R A North

Journal, date & volume: Ciba Found. Symp., 1996 , 198, 91-105; discussion 105-9

PubMed link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8879820

Abstract
Three classes of ligand-gated ion channels are defined by their molecular architecture. The first embraces nicotinic, 5-HT3, glycine and GABA receptors. The second class contains the glutamate receptors-AMPA, kainate and NMDA types. The third class is the P2X receptors for ATP. Current knowledge of the structure of these channels is reviewed, and set beside what is known of their basic functional properties. The aim of this paper is to consider how our more complete understanding of the first two classes of channels might be helpful in forming a molecular picture of P2X receptor function.