Question

If Mg++ is dislodged, what effects would NMDA activation have on the post-synaptic neuron?

Answer 1

Ans:- NMDA receptors are ionotropic glutamate receptors. mg++ binds to specific site on receptor protein and hence block the passage of ions through the channel. if mg++ dislodge from receptor NMDA ion channel would allow the passage of ions in and out of cell. na+ and ca++ move into cell and k+ moves out of cell. increase in ca++ in cell over activate NMDA receptor. this over activation of NMDA receptor will further increase in ca++ concentration.. increase Concentration of ca++ in cell increase risk of mitochondrial and produce reactive oxygen species. which further damage cytoskeletal of cell and DNA.this cause excitotoxicity which involve in many Neurodegenerative disease like alzheimer, epilepsy.