AMPA Receptors

1 min readEvidence-linked topicGreen Medicine Encyclopedia

Also known as:  Alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionate (AMPA) Receptors

 

Description

AMPA Receptors are a sub-type of Glutamate Receptor.  Compared to NMDA Receptors, AMPA Receptors are “fast” in action.  Large numbers of AMPA Receptors are located in the Brain Stem, Motor Cortex (of the Frontal Lobe) and the Spinal Cord.

 

These Substances Activate AMPA Receptors

Prescribed Medications

 AMPA Agonists (e.g. Ampakines) activate AMPA Receptors.

 

Biological Function of AMPA Receptors

Nervous System

 AMPA Receptors are involved in the storage of Memory.  [1]

 

These Substances may Enhance the Function of AMPA Receptors

Minerals

 Zinc may increase the sensitivity of AMPA Receptors to activation by AMPA Agonists (e.g. Ampakines).  [2]

 

Smart Drugs

 Aniracetam may protect and enhance the function of AMPA Receptors.  [3]

 

This is one of more than 5,000 interlinked topics in the Green Medicine Encyclopedia.

Explore the full encyclopedia free