N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are indispensable for brain development and function. Both NMDAR hypo and hyperfunction contribute to the pathophysiology of a variety of neurological and psychiatric diseases. The papers collected in this special issue summarize the current knowledge regarding the post-transcriptional regulation of NMDA receptor expression. The expression of NMDA receptors in the fetus and newborn is reviewed as well as its response in the central nervous system to noxious stimuli during early development. Evidence and mechanisms for controlling functional expression of NMDA receptor trafficking are summarized and discussed. Neurobiologists will find a collection of essential and up-to-date information on mechanisms regulating the expression of NMDA receptors which are central to physiological and pathophysiological brain function.