AMPA receptor

An AMPA receptor is a type of ionotropic glutamate receptor that mediates fast synaptic transmission in the central nervous system. The receptor can be activated by the neurotransmitter glutamate or by the synthetic agonist AMPA, which gives it its name. The activation of the receptor allows the passage of sodium and potassium ions across the membrane, generating an excitatory postsynaptic potential. AMPA receptors play an important role in synaptic plasticity, learning and memory.