The chemical messenger glutamate (Glu) mediates most excitatory neurotransmission in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS) and is essential for normal brain function. While the concentration of glutamate is strictly regulated in physiological conditions, its elevated level in the synaptic cleft is the principal cause of neuronal death upon stroke or traumatic brain injury, as well as in various neurodegenerative conditions.

Ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs) are responsible for fast excitatory neurotransmission. They bind Glu and allow positively charged ions to enter the post-synaptic neuron, enabling signaling to be transduced to other neurons through excitation. iGluRs are involved in synaptic plasticity processes underlying learning and memory and regulating growth cones and synaptogenesis during brain development. iGluR's family includes AMPA, NMDA, KA, and delta – all representing excellent targets for drug discovery.

A very important pathology for iGluRs is elevated excitability in seizures; it underlies the remodeling of synaptic networks as seizures cause neuroexcitotoxicity and death of neurons. Uncontrolled seizures lead to cognitive decline.

We aim to compose a collection of multidisciplinary research and review papers embracing various fields of science to deepen our understanding of iGluR involvement in various physiological and pathophysiological processes.

We welcome submissions that focus on increasing understanding of the role of iGluR channels in physiological and pathophysiological processes in the CNS. This Research Topic aims to provide new insights and multidisciplinary exploration of iGluRs, which include but are not limited to topics such as structural characterization, molecular modelling, biophysics of ion channel gating and permeation, trafficking and synaptic localization, cellular excitability, pharmacology, iGluR regulation in disease conditions, investigation of iGluR channelopathies using new model systems, such as stem cell-derived cells, and interaction of iGluRs with other proteins.

We welcome a variety of article types, including under the following categories: Original Research, Review, Mini Review, Brief Research Report, and Perspective.

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Frontiers in Pharmacology

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