DNQX

DNQX is a selective and competitive AMPA and kainate receptor antagonist. DNQX allso acts as partial AMPA agonist in the presence of γ2 transmembrane AMPA receptor regulatory proteins (TARP) subunit.

DNQX is also a neuroleptic agent that displays pro-oxidant activity.

Water soluble DNQX disodium is also available.

DNQX antagonizes the actions of glutamate at AMPA receptors. It is commonly used to reduce excitatory post synaptic currents (EPSC) and is commonly used at 10 μM. DNQX disodium salt from Hello Bio completely blocks both spontaneous and evoked EPSCs at 10 μM, with concentrations of 1 μM also effective (see Fig 1 above).

#Protocol 1: Evoked and spontaneous excitatory post synaptic currents (EPSCs)

• Whole cell voltage clamp recordings were obtained from layer V neurons of the mouse prelimbic cortex brain slice.
•  EPSCs were evoked via a stimulating electrode placed in layers II/III delivering a single square (150 μs) pulse every 10 sec at an intensity that gave a reliable EPSC.
• Neurons were held at -70 to -60 mV (the reversal potential of GABA currents). EPSCs were continuously stimulated and recorded in response to 5 min applications of varying concentrations of NBQX disodium salt until complete receptor inhibition.
• Spontaneous EPSCs were recorded before and after addition of NBQX disodium salt by holding the neuron at -70 mV and recording for 10 sec.
• Recordings for EPSCs were made in the absence of GABA_A-R antagonists.