Quantitative analysis of the interaction between NMDA and AMPA receptors in glutamatergic synapses based on mathematical model
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: NMDA and AMPA receptors are co-localized at most glutamatergic synapses, where their numbers and distribution undergo dynamic changes. Glutamate binds to both the NMDA and AMPA receptors. Initially, I investigated whether there is competition between AMPA receptors and N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptors for glutamate. Subsequently, I examined how these dynamic receptor changes affect synaptic response. To test the hypothesis, a synaptic model incorporating coexisting NMDA and AMPA receptors within the postsynaptic density (PSD) was developed. During long-term potentiation (LTP) induction, the α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors in the PSD increase. If there is competition for glutamate between AMPA receptors and NMDA receptors, the number of activated NMDA receptor channels will decrease. Since LTP induction relies on the activation of NMDA receptors, reducing their activation will raise the threshold for LTP induction. Consequently, the LTP of the synapse itself can establish negative feedback, preventing excessive dynamics and maintaining the stability of the neural network. • A synapse model was developed, suggesting that the transmitters cannot saturate postsynaptic receptors. • AMPA and NMDA receptors may compete for glutamate. • The increase in AMPA receptors can inhibit the response of NMDA receptors, thereby suppressing the occurrence of LTP. • Competition of NMDA receptors and AMPA receptors for transmitters may be a mechanism for synaptic dynamic homeostasis.
Source: Neuroscience Research
Author: Qingchen Guo
Language: English
Subfield: Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,700
Funder: Xuzhou Medical University
OpenAlex ID: W4403558652