The role of the GluR2 subunit in AMPA receptor function and synaptic plasticity

The AMPA receptor (AMPAR) GluR2 subunit dictates the critical biophysical properties of the receptor, strongly influences receptor assembly and trafficking, and plays pivotal roles in a number of forms of long-term synaptic plasticity. Most neuronal AMPARs contain this critical subunit; however, in certain restricted neuronal populations and under certain physiological or pathological conditions, AMPARs that lack this subunit are expressed. There is a current surge of interest in such GluR2-lacking Ca2(+)-permeable AMPARs in how they affect the regulation of synaptic transmission. Here, we bring together recent data highlighting the novel and important roles of GluR2 in synaptic function and plasticity.