kainic

Kainic is an adjective most often encountered in reference to kainic acid and kainate receptors. Kainic acid is a naturally occurring neuroactive compound derived from certain red algae, notably the species Digenea simplex. It is a derivative of the amino acid glutamic acid and functions as a potent excitotoxin.

Pharmacology and mechanism: Kainic acid acts as an agonist at kainate receptors, a subfamily of ionotropic glutamate receptors. Activation of these receptors leads to cation influx and neuronal depolarization. At higher concentrations or in susceptible brain regions such as the hippocampus, kainic acid can cause excitotoxic injury, contributing to seizures and neuronal damage. The compound’s effects on neuronal signaling have made it a valuable tool for studying synaptic transmission and excitotoxic mechanisms.

Uses in research: In neuroscience, kainic acid is used to induce seizures and model temporal lobe epilepsy in animals, enabling investigation of seizure development, neurodegeneration, and potential protective strategies. It is also employed to study the distribution and function of kainate receptors, both in vivo and in brain tissue slices, and to explore receptor pharmacology and neuroprotective interventions.

Safety and availability: Kainic acid is hazardous and requires careful handling in properly equipped laboratories. It is typically used under controlled conditions and subject to regulatory restrictions. The term kainate receptors derives from the selective agonist activity of kainic acid, which helped define this receptor class in neuroscience.