Excitatory signalling increases the likelihood that a receiving neuron will become active under particular conditions. Glutamate contributes through fast ion-channel receptors and slower receptors that modify cell processes. Its effects support ordinary perception, movement, learning…Continue Reading
NMDA receptors are glutamate-activated ion channels with distinctive properties, including dependence on co-agonists and the electrical state of the receiving cell. They contribute to synaptic plasticity and the coordination of neural activity. Their role has…Continue Reading
Synaptic plasticity is the capacity of connections between neurons to change with activity and experience. Glutamate receptors, including NMDA and AMPA receptors, play important roles in several forms of plasticity. These processes support learning and…Continue Reading
GABA is a major inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps regulate the timing and coordination of neural activity. Glutamate can activate GABA-producing interneurons, so reduced activity at an excitatory receptor may sometimes lead to less inhibition elsewhere.…Continue Reading
Glutamate hypotheses propose that altered glutamatergic signalling contributes to schizophrenia-related symptoms and cognitive difficulties. NMDA receptor hypofunction is one influential model, particularly when considered within circuits involving inhibitory interneurons and dopamine regulation. The aim is…Continue Reading
Intracellular signalling is the chain of events inside a cell after a receptor is activated. Dopamine receptors influence enzymes, second messengers, ion channels and proteins that regulate cellular activity. D1-like receptors generally increase cyclic AMP…Continue Reading
An agonist activates a receptor, while an antagonist prevents activation by occupying or otherwise blocking it. A partial agonist produces less activation than a full agonist under comparable conditions. At dopamine receptors, partial agonists can…Continue Reading
Serotonin signalling occurs when serotonin is released and binds to receptors on nearby cells. Its effects are regulated by synthesis, release, reuptake and metabolism. Different receptors trigger different cellular responses, so changing serotonin signalling in…Continue Reading
Serotonin receptors are grouped into families identified as 5-HT1 through 5-HT7, with several subtypes. Most are G protein-coupled receptors; 5-HT3 is an ion channel. They differ in distribution, signalling and function. A drug’s action at…Continue Reading
5-HT2A receptors are important targets of many second-generation antipsychotics. Blocking them can alter interactions between serotonin and dopamine pathways. This has been proposed as one contributor to the lower movement-related risk of some receptor profiles…Continue Reading