Complex interactions between mGluRs, intracellular Ca2+ stores and ion channels in neurons

Metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) can increase intracellular Ca2+ concentration via Ins(1,4,5)P-3- and ryanodine-sensitive Ca2+ stores in neurons. Both types of store are coupled functionally to Ca2+ permeable channels found in the plasma membrane. The mGluR-mediated increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration can activate Ca2+-sensitive K+ channels and Ca2+ dependent nonselective cationic channels. These mGluR-mediated effects often result from mobilization of Ca2+ from ryanodine-sensitive, rather than Ins(1,4,5)P-3-sensitive, Ca2+ stores, suggesting that close functional interactions exist between mGluRs, intracellular Ca2+ stores and Ca2+-sensitive ion channels in the membrane.