Ligand-gated ion channel

Ligand-gated ion channel

The Ligand-gated ion channel (pronunciation: li-gand-gated-eye-on-channel), also known as ionotropic receptors, are a group of transmembrane proteins that allow ions to pass through the cell membrane in response to the binding of a chemical messenger, known as a ligand.

Etymology

The term "Ligand-gated ion channel" is derived from the words "ligand", a substance that forms a complex with a molecule to serve a biological purpose, and "ion channel", a protein that allows ions to pass through a cell membrane.

Function

Ligand-gated ion channels are essential for rapid synaptic transmission in the nervous system. They are involved in the transmission of impulses between neurons and other cells. When a ligand binds to the receptor, it changes the receptor's structure and opens the ion channel, which allows ions to pass into the cell.

Types

There are several types of ligand-gated ion channels, including:

• Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors
• GABA receptors
• Glutamate receptors
• Glycine receptors
• Serotonin receptors

Related Terms

• Neurotransmitter
• Receptor
• Ion channel
• Cell signaling

See Also

• Voltage-gated ion channel
• Receptor

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