AMPA receptor

Glossary / Nootropics / AMPA receptor
NOOTROPICS · GLOSSARY ENTRY

AMPA receptor

A glutamate receptor central to fast synaptic transmission and learning — the primary target of racetam pharmacology.

Why it matters

The α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor mediates fast excitatory transmission in the brain. Positive allosteric modulators (the racetams, ampakines) enhance signal transmission without directly opening the receptor, which is the basis for their proposed cognitive effects.

In practice

AMPA modulation underpins much of the pharmacology of piracetam, aniracetam, and the other racetams. The clinical translation has been less convincing than the receptor pharmacology might suggest.

Common confusion

“AMPA modulation = cognitive enhancement” is too simple — the receptor activity has to be at the right time and place to be useful.

SOURCES

    This glossary entry is editorial content reviewed against primary sources. It is not medical advice. See our Editorial Policy.

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