Genomic control of receptor function

Ionotropic ligand-gated channels constitute a large superfamily of channels that provide a molecular basis for synaptic transmission in central and peripheral nervous systems. These channels are subjects of genomic regulation at different levels. The final functional properties of each particular channel are determined by type of gene family, posttranscriptional alterations of messenger RNA (alternative splicing, editing) and subunit composition. In addition, interaction of receptor subunits with postsynaptic density proteins plays a regulatory role and determines targets of channel insertion. In this review, taking glutamate receptor channels as well-studied example, we illustrate how each of these steps may determine receptor function in synapses.