NMDA receptors, short for N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors, are a type of ionotropic glutamate receptor found in the central nervous system. These receptors play a crucial role in synaptic transmission and plasticity, particularly in processes such as learning and memory. NMDA receptors are unique in that they are both ligand-gated and voltage-dependent, meaning they require the binding of a specific neurotransmitter (glutamate) and the membrane potential to be sufficiently depolarized for activation. This dual requirement allows NMDA receptors to be involved in processes such as long-term potentiation (LTP), a key mechanism underlying learning and memory. Research on NMDA receptors focuses on understanding their structure, function, and regulation, as well as their role in various neurological and psychiatric disorders. Dysregulation of NMDA receptors has been implicated in conditions such as schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and chronic pain, making them potential targets for therapeutic interventions.