The NMDAR is a specific type of ionotropicglutamate receptor. The NMDA receptor is named this because the agonist molecule N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) binds selectively to it, and not to other glutamate receptors. Activation of NMDA receptors results in the opening of an ion channel that is nonselective to cations with a reversal potential near 0 mV. A property of the NMDA receptor is its voltage-dependent activation, a result of ion channel block by extracellular Mg2+ & Zn2+ ions. This allows the flow of Na+ and small amounts of Ca2+ ions into the cell and K+ out of the cell to be voltage-dependent.
What is Ketamine? ... How Does Ketamine Work? ... Ketamine, however, functions as an NMDA receptor blocker in the brain. Their receptors are engaged in pain transmission, mood regulation, and synaptic plasticity ... Treatment-Resistant Depression ... Smith.
Historically, scientists believed nitrous oxide worked by blocking NMDA receptors, which are present in nearly all brain cells and play a crucial role in pain management and communication between neurons.