Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis: a review of mechanistic studies

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2021

Abstract

NMDA receptors (NMDARs) are ion channels gated by glutamate, the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Anti-NMDA receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis is an autoimmune disease characterized by the presence of autoantibodies against the NMDAR GluN1 subunit. Here we briefly review current advances in the understanding of the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of anti-NMDAR encephalitis. The autoantibodies bind to and cross-link the endogenous NMDARs, disrupt the interaction of NMDARs with receptor tyrosine kinase EphB2 leading to internalization and reduced function of NMDARs. Hypofunction of the NMDARs results in impairment in long-term potentiation and deficit in learning and memory, leads to development of depression-like behavior, and lowers the threshold for seizures. Recent development of active immunization models of anti-NMDAR encephalitis provides insight into the inflammation process and paves the way for further studies that may lead to better treatment.

Publication Title

International J Physiology, Pathophysiology, Pharmacology

Volume

13

Issue

1

First Page

1

Last Page

11

PubMed ID

33815666

Comments

This article was published in International Journal of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Pharmacology, Volume 13, Issue 1, pages 1-11.

The published version is available at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8012859/.

Copyright © 2021 IJPPP.

This document is currently not available here.

COinS