What is the NMDA receptor?

The NMDA receptor is a type of receptor located on the surface of neurons that plays a key role in neuroplasticity, learning, and memory. It is primarily responsive to glutamate, which is an excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain. The activation of the NMDA receptor requires not only the binding of glutamate but also a significant amount of electrical activity, which makes it act as an "and gate" in neural functions. This means that for the NMDA receptor to be activated, two conditions must be met: a high concentration of glutamate and intense electrical activity. This mechanism allows the NMDA receptor to respond to unusually high or frequent levels of electrical activity, contributing to processes like synaptic strength and long-term potentiation, which are essential for learning and memory formation [1].

Additionally, the NMDA receptor is involved in triggering intracellular processes that can change the behavior of neurons to make learning and adaptive responses more efficient. For instance, upon activation by relevant stimuli, it can facilitate the expression of certain genes and the relocation of other types of glutamate receptors to the neuron's surface, enhancing the neuron's response to regular neurotransmitter activity without the need for intense stimulation. This adaptability is crucial for the brain's ability to alter its structure and function in response to new experiences or environmental changes, a process known as neuroplasticity [2].