Distribution of NMDA receptor binding in developing mouse spinal cord.

The role of NMDA receptors in spinal sensorimotor processes has been studied in neonates and adults, while NMDA binding has previously been described only in mature spinal cord. In autoradiographs of mouse lumbar cord, NMDA-sensitive [3H]glutamate binding peaked transiently around postnatal days 6-10. Differentiation increased progressively from day 10 to adulthood. Mature levels were highest in substantia gelatinosa and moderate in dorsomedial dorsal horn. The results are described in relation to functional and anatomical features of developing spinal cord.