Human Glutamate Receptor, Metabotropic 3 (GRM3) Protein

Background

GRM3, also known as mGluR3, is a Group II metabotropic glutamate receptor that couples to Gi/o proteins, leading to the inhibition of adenylate cyclase and reduced cAMP production. GRM3 is expressed in glial cells and neurons, where it modulates synaptic transmission, glutamate release, and neuroinflammation. GRM3 plays an important role in maintaining synaptic plasticity and protecting against excitotoxicity by regulating extracellular glutamate levels. Dysregulation of GRM3 has been linked to psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, where genetic variations in the GRM3 gene are associated with cognitive deficits and impaired glutamatergic signaling. GRM3 is also involved in neuroprotection, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. GRM3 agonists are being explored as therapeutic agents for schizophrenia, neuroinflammation, and cognitive impairment, as they stabilize glutamate levels and improve neuronal function. Its role in glutamate homeostasis highlights its therapeutic potential in CNS disorders.