GRIP1 (glutamate receptor interacting protein 1) is a neuron-enriched scaffolding protein that plays an important role in regulating synaptic trafficking, synaptic strength and synaptic organization and transmission of AMPA receptor 2 and 3 (GluA2/3) ^1,2. GRIP1 structure contains 7 PDZ domains responsible for protein-protein interactions. GRIP1 forms homodimers that can bind and simultaneously organize and assemble protein complexes via PDZ domains^1,2.

GRIP1 is abundantly expressed in glutamatergic and GABAergic synapses. In addition, GRIP1 expression can be found in muscle cells and in the epidermis^1,3. Studies on GRIP1 knockout mice have revealed multi-organ developmental abnormalities. These mice die due to hemorrhage and hypovolemia in the embryonic or early post-natal period².

Mutations in GRIP1 protein resulting in a gain-of-function phenotype are linked to autism, while neuronal-specific loss-of-function mice have prosocial behavior. Other point mutations have been associated with schizophrenia and congenital kidney disease^2,3.