GLYCINE RECEPTORS Meaning and
Definition
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Glycine receptors are a class of ion channels located in the central nervous system (CNS) that play a crucial role in the inhibitory signaling of neurons. These receptors are primarily composed of five subunits (α1-α4 and β) and are activated by the neurotransmitter glycine.
Upon binding to glycine, these receptors open to allow the influx of negatively charged chloride ions into the neuron, leading to hyperpolarization and thus inhibition of neuronal activity. This inhibitory effect is critical for regulating neuronal excitability and maintaining the balance between excitation and inhibition in the brain and spinal cord.
Glycine receptors are widely distributed throughout the CNS, with particularly high levels found in the brainstem and spinal cord. This distribution reflects their essential role in motor control, sensory processing, and the modulation of pain.
Defects or dysfunction in glycine receptors are associated with various neurological disorders, including hyperekplexia (also known as startle disease), a rare inherited disorder characterized by an exaggerated and prolonged startle response. Additionally, mutations in glycine receptor subunits have been linked to restless legs syndrome, sleep disorders, and epilepsy.
The pharmacological manipulation of glycine receptors has been a target for drug development since alterations in their activity can have profound effects on the balance of neuronal excitability in the CNS. Inhibitory compounds that enhance glycine receptor activity, such as benzodiazepines, can be used as sedatives or antiepileptic drugs, while drugs that block glycine receptors, such as strychnine, can induce convulsions or hyperexcitability.
Common Misspellings for GLYCINE RECEPTORS
- flycine receptors
- vlycine receptors
- blycine receptors
- hlycine receptors
- ylycine receptors
- tlycine receptors
- gkycine receptors
- gpycine receptors
- goycine receptors
- gltcine receptors
- glgcine receptors
- glhcine receptors
- glucine receptors
- gl7cine receptors
- gl6cine receptors
- glyxine receptors
- glyvine receptors
- glyfine receptors
- glydine receptors
- glycune receptors
Etymology of GLYCINE RECEPTORS
The word "glycine" in "glycine receptors" is derived from the Greek word "glukus" meaning sweet. It was coined by the French chemist Henri Braconnot in 1820 when he discovered the substance in gelatin. Glycine is an amino acid that serves as a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.
The term "receptors" refers to proteins found in cell membranes that bind to specific molecules, initiating a cellular response. In the case of glycine receptors, these proteins are specifically involved in interacting with and responding to glycine molecules in the body. So together, "glycine receptors" refers to the proteins that bind to glycine neurotransmitters.
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