Definition:

Component of NMDA receptor complexes that function as heterotetrameric, ligand-gated ion channels with high calcium permeability and voltage-dependent sensitivity to magnesium. Channel activation requires binding of the neurotransmitter glutamate to the epsilon subunit, glycine binding to the zeta subunit, plus membrane depolarization to eliminate channel inhibition by Mg(2+). Sensitivity to glutamate and channel kinetics depend on the subunit composition (Probable). Plays a role in regulating the balance between excitatory and inhibitory activity of pyramidal neurons in the prefrontal cortex. Contributes to the slow phase of excitatory postsynaptic current, long-term synaptic potentiation, and learning (By similarity).