On the configuration of the receptors for excitatory amino acids.

Separate receptors are recognized for the excitation of mammalian neurones by (a) L-glutamic and quisqualic acids and (b) N-methyl-D-aspartic (NMDA), and other amino acids which have conformationally restricted molecules. Several other compounds, both agonists and antagonists, have been examined, and it is concluded that (i) the NMDA receptor reacts preferentially with substances in a relatively extended configuration, (ii) the glutamate/quisqualate receptor prefers folded molecules and (iii) the distance separating the amino group from the distal anionic function is the critical one determining receptor preference.