TrkB/mGluR5 cross-talk underlies a synaptic metaplasticity mechanism of ketamine

May 1, 2026Science advances

Interaction between two brain receptors may explain how ketamine changes synapse adaptability

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Abstract

The antidepressant action of ketamine is dependent on the receptor tyrosine kinase tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB) and the G protein-coupled receptor metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5).

  • mGluR5 amplifies the signaling of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) through TrkB, facilitating synaptic strengthening.
  • BDNF activation of TrkB triggers the internalization of mGluR5, which may impair synaptic weakening.
  • Ketamine enhances the interaction between TrkB and mGluR5, increasing their surface and postsynaptic levels.
  • An mGluR5 positive allosteric modulator can further enhance the signaling cross-talk between TrkB and mGluR5.
  • These findings suggest that the interplay between different neuromodulatory receptors could influence therapeutic outcomes.

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