Ionotropic glutamate receptor. L-glutamate acts as an excitatory neurotransmitter at many synapses in the central nervous system. Binding of the excitatory neurotransmitter L-glutamate induces a conformation change, leading to the opening of the cation channel, and thereby converts the chemical signal to an electrical impulse. The receptor then desensitizes rapidly and enters a transient inactive state, characterized by the presence of bound agonist. Modulates cell surface expression of NETO2.
Independent of its ionotropic glutamate receptor activity, acts as a thermoreceptor conferring sensitivity to cold temperatures (By similarity). Functions in dorsal root ganglion neurons (By similarity).
Subcellular locations: Cell membrane, Postsynaptic cell membrane