Glutamate exerts its effects by binding to specific receptors on the postsynaptic membrane. These receptors are divided into two main categories: ionotropic and metabotropic receptors. The ionotropic receptors include NMDA, AMPA, and kainate receptors, which are involved in fast synaptic transmission. Metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) modulate neurotransmission and neuronal excitability through G-protein coupled mechanisms.
