Updates on the Physiopathology of Group I Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors (mGluRI)-Dependent Long-Term Depression

Group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRI), including mGluR1 and mGluR5 subtypes, modulate essential brain functions by affecting neuronal excitability, intracellular calcium dynamics, protein synthesis, dendritic spine formation, and synaptic transmission and plasticity. Nowadays, it is well appreciated that the mGluRI-dependent long-term depression (LTD) of glutamatergic synaptic transmission (mGluRI-LTD) is a key mechanism by which mGluRI shapes connectivity in various cerebral circuitries, directing complex brain functions and behaviors, and that it is deranged in several neurological and psychiatric illnesses, including neurodevelopmental disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and psychopathologies. Here, we will provide an updated overview of the physiopathology of mGluRI-LTD, by describing mechanisms of induction and regulation by endogenous mGluRI interactors, as well as functional physiological implications and pathological deviations.

Automated summary

Group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRI) modulate essential brain functions and are involved in various neurological and psychiatric illnesses. The mGluRI-dependent long-term depression (LTD) of glutamatergic synaptic transmission is a key mechanism in shaping connectivity and directing brain functions and behaviors. This article provides an updated overview of the physiopathology of mGluRI-LTD, including induction and regulation mechanisms, and its implications in both physiological and pathological conditions.