Kainate receptors are a type of glutamate receptor found in the brain and spinal cord. They play a crucial role in synaptic transmission and plasticity, which are essential for learning and memory. These receptors are activated by the neurotransmitter glutamate and are involved in excitatory signaling in the central nervous system. Kainate receptors are part of a larger family of ionotropic receptors, which also includes NMDA and AMPA receptors. They are unique in their ability to modulate neuronal excitability and are implicated in various neurological conditions, including epilepsy and neurodegenerative diseases. Understanding their function can help in developing targeted therapies.