NMDA receptors containing GluN2C and GluN2D subunits have opposing roles in modulating neuronal oscillations; potential mechanism for bidirectional feedback.

NMDA receptor (NMDAR) antagonists such as ketamine, can reproduce many of the symptoms of schizophrenia. A reliable indicator of NMDAR channel blocker action in vivo is the augmentation of neuronal oscillation power. Since the coordinated and rhythmic activation of neuronal assemblies (oscillations) is necessary for perception, cognition and working memory, their disruption (inappropriate augmentation or inhibition of oscillatory power or inter-regional coherence) both in psychiatric conditions and with NMDAR antagonists may reflect the underlying defects causing schizophrenia symptoms.