Structure and Function of the Glycine Receptor and Related Nicotinicoid Receptors

Michael Cascio, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine

Abstract

Although many of the details of GlyR dynamics still remain elusive, the extensive studies conducted on GlyR and other members of the nicotinicoid superfamily in recent years provide us with an emerging picture of the structure and function of these receptors. As novel studies continue to examine these receptors, we are confident that these ion channels will reveal their molecular mechanisms. These details are significant in that they will allow us to develop novel therapeutics and pharmacological tools to modulate channel activity in the central nervous system.