The Opening of NMDA Receptor Channels Require Synaptic Depolarization

Question

The opening of NMDA receptor channels require synaptic depolarization.

Accepted Answer

The binding of glutamate to NMDA receptors alone does not allow the influx of calcium ions into the postsynaptic neuron. It requires simultaneous depolarization of the postsynaptic membrane to relieve the magnesium block present in the channel pore, allowing calcium to enter the neuron.