1. receptors, kainic acid Cell surface proteins that bind glutamate and directly gate ion channels. Kainic acid receptors were originally discriminated from other glutamate receptors by their affinity for the agonist kainic acid. Activation of kainic acid receptors is generally excitatory to cells. Subtypes have been cloned, and for some the traditional distinction from AMPA receptors may not apply.
Definitions of receptors, kainic acid
