Neurotransmitter Glutamate: Receptor Dynamics and Pharmacodynamics

This lecture delves into the dynamics of the neurotransmitter glutamate, focusing on its interaction with NMDA receptors in the CNS synapses. It covers the rapid clearance of glutamate, its binding and unbinding kinetics, and the calculation of the time course of glutamate unbinding. The lecture also explores the concepts of agonists, antagonists, and modulator sites in relation to GABA receptors, providing insights into receptor activation and interpretation. Additionally, it discusses the effects of competitive and non-competitive antagonists on receptor binding, illustrated through inhibition curves and occupancy calculations.