GluR1

The ion channels activated by glutamate are typically divided into two classes. Those that are sensitive to N-methyl-D- aspartate (NMDA) are designated NMDA receptors (NMDAR) while those activated by -amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxalone propionic acid (AMPA) are known as AMPA receptors (AMPAR). The AMPAR are comprised of four distinct Glutamate Receptor Subunits designated (GluR1-4) and they play key roles in virtually all excitatory neurotransmission in the brain. The GluR2 subunit is thought to play a key role in forms of synaptic plasticity such as LTD.

Western blot analysis of GluR1 transfected cells and rat brain homogenates the antibody specifically labels a single band at approximately 102 kD. Western blot analysis of GluR2, 3, 4, 4C, 5, 6, and 7 transfected cells revealed no immunolabeling. Immunolabeling of the above non-NMDA transfected cells demonstrates specificity for GluR1. Additionally, immunolabeling for GluR1 is completely abolished by pre-adsorption with synthetic rat GluR1 (894-907) at 5 µg per mL of diluted antibody.