A neurophysiology experiment records from the hippocampus of a rat during a learning task. Long-term potentiation (LTP) is observed at CA1 pyramidal cell synapses. Which receptor activation is ESSENTIAL for the induction of this classic LTP?

• A NMDA receptor ✓
• B AMPA receptor
• C GABAA receptor
• D Muscarinic M1 receptor

Explanation

LTP at the Schaffer collateral-CA1 synapse requires NMDA receptor activation. Depolarization relieves the magnesium block, allowing calcium influx through the NMDA receptor, which triggers intracellular signaling cascades leading to synaptic strengthening. AMPA receptors mediate fast excitatory transmission but are not the trigger for LTP induction. GABAergic and muscarinic receptors modulate but do not directly induce this form of LTP.

Reference: Ganong's Review of Medical Physiology, 26th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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