SYNAPTIC TARGETING OF GLUTAMATE RECEPTORS

The proper targeting and clustering of neurotransmitter receptors at a ppropriate postsynaptic sites are principal requirements for the forma tion of functional synapses. Recently, new studies have begun to eluci date the mechanisms underlying the targeting and clustering of glutama te receptors at excitatory synapses in the brain. Members of the SAP90 /PSD-95 family of proteins have emerged as potential regulators of glu tamate-receptor membrane distribution, Further, targeting motifs withi n glutamate receptor subunits have been identified. These findings pro vide important clues in the effort to understand the molecular feature s of synaptic organization.