Rapid recruitment of NMDA receptor transport packets to nascent synapses

Glutamate receptor dynamics organizing synapse formation in vivo

Insight into how glutamatergic synapses form in vivo is important for understanding developmental and experience-triggered changes of excitatory circuits. Here, we imaged postsynaptic densities (PSDs) expressing a functional, GFP-tagged glutamate receptor subunit (GluR-IIA(GFP)) at neuromuscular junctions of Drosophila melanogaster larvae for several days in vivo. New PSDs, associated with functional and structural presynaptic markers, formed independently of existing synapses and grew continuously until reaching a stable size within hours. Both in vivo photoactivation and photobleaching experiments showed that extrasynaptic receptors derived from diffuse, cell-wide pools preferentially entered growing PSDs. After entering PSDs, receptors were largely immobilized. In comparison, other postsynaptic proteins tested (PSD-95, NCAM and PAK homologs) exchanged faster and with no apparent preference for growing synapses. We show here that new glutamatergic synapses form de novo and not by partitioning processes from existing synapses, suggesting that the site-specific entry of particular glutamate receptor complexes directly controls the assembly of individual PSDs.

Cycling of NMDA receptors during trafficking in neurons before synapse formation

The trafficking of glutamate receptors in neurons is of the utmost importance for synapse formation and synaptic plasticity. Recently, we demonstrated that both NMDA and AMPA receptors reside in mobile transport packets that are recruited rapidly and independently to nascent synapses. Here, we show that a large proportion of the glutamate receptor clusters in young cortical neurons are present on the surface of dendrites before synapses are formed and these surface-exposed transport packets are mobile. Exocytosis of glutamate receptors to the dendritic surface occurs via a SNARE [soluble n-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein (SNAP) receptor]-dependent SNAP-23-mediated mechanism. Endocytosis occurs rapidly after surface exposure; >50% of surface-labeled NMDA receptors (NMDARs) are endocytosed within 5 min. NMDARs are transported along microtubules on large tubulovesicular organelles, as indicated by immunoelectron microscopy, and are associated with EEA1 (early endosomal antigen 1) and SAP102 (synapse-associated protein 102), as indicated by immunocytochemistry. Most surprisingly, a large proportion of these transport packets cycle through the dendritic plasma membrane before synapse formation. These results suggest a novel model in which NMDARs cycle with the plasma membrane during pauses of movement along microtubules while trafficking.

The NR1-4 C-terminus interferes with N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-mediated excitotoxicity: evidence against a typical T/SXV-PDZ interaction

The N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) plays a key role in the neural plasticity that underlies learning and memory in vivo. The plasticity exhibited by NMDARs may also contribute to disease pathogenesis, as a number of disorders are caused or exacerbated by exaggerated NMDAR activity. The NMDAR is composed of two obligatory types of subunits, NR1 and NR2. These transmembrane proteins include large intracellular C-termini that have yet to be fully characterized. We have developed a three-color fluorescence system in order to visualize NMDAR expression in living cells. Using excitotoxicity as a proxy for exaggerated NMDAR activity, we analyzed the effect of over-expressing NR1-4 and NR2A C-terminal domains on exaggerated NMDAR function. We demonstrate that a determinant within the C-terminal domain of NR1-4 (C02') is important for NMDAR excitotoxicity, whereas no novel determinants were identified in the NR2A C-terminus. Through the use of heterologous cells, and by examining the interaction between the prototypical NMDAR-binding partner postsynaptic density-95 (PSD-95), we show that this effect is unlikely to be mediated through a classical interaction with PSD-95.

Microtubule regulation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor channels in neurons

N-Methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors (NMDARs), which play a key role in synaptic plasticity, are dynamically regulated by many signaling molecules and scaffolding proteins. Although actin cytoskeleton has been implicated in regulating NMDAR stability in synaptic membrane, the role of microtubules in regulating NMDAR trafficking and function is largely unclear. Here we show that microtubule-depolymerizing agents inhibited NMDA receptor-mediated ionic and synaptic currents in cortical pyramidal neurons. This effect was Ca(2+)-independent, required GTP, and was more prominent in the presence of high NMDA concentrations. The NR2B subunit-containing NMDA receptor was the primary target of microtubules. The effect of microtubule depolymerizers on NMDAR currents was blocked by cellular knockdown of the kinesin motor protein KIF17, which transports NR2B-containing vesicles along microtubule in neuronal dendrites. Neuromodulators that can stabilize microtubules, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor, significantly attenuated the microtubule depolymerizer-induced reduction of NMDAR currents. Moreover, immunocytochemical studies show that microtubule depolymerizers decreased the number of surface NR2B subunits on dendrites, which was prevented by the microtubule stabilizer. Taken together, these results suggest that interfering with microtubule assembly suppresses NMDAR function through a mechanism dependent on kinesin-based dendritic transport of NMDA receptors.

Regulation of the NMDA receptor complex and trafficking by activity-dependent phosphorylation of the NR2B subunit PDZ ligand

Interactions between NMDA receptors (NMDARs) and the PDZ [postsynaptic density-95 (PSD-95)/Discs large/zona occludens-1] domains of PSD-95/SAP90 (synapse-associated protein with a molecular weight of 90 kDa) family proteins play important roles in the synaptic targeting and signaling of NMDARs. However, little is known about the mechanisms that regulate these PDZ domain-mediated interactions. Here we show that casein kinase II (CK2) phosphorylates the serine residue (Ser1480) within the C-terminal PDZ ligand (IESDV) of the NR2B subunit of NMDAR in vitro and in vivo. Phosphorylation of Ser1480 disrupts the interaction of NR2B with the PDZ domains of PSD-95 and SAP102 and decreases surface NR2B expression in neurons. Interestingly, activity of the NMDAR and Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II regulates CK2 phosphorylation of Ser1480. Furthermore, CK2 colocalizes with NR1 and PSD-95 at synaptic sites. These results indicate that activity-dependent CK2 phosphorylation of the NR2B PDZ ligand regulates the interaction of NMDAR with PSD-95/SAP90 family proteins as well as surface NMDAR expression and may be a critical mechanism for modulating excitatory synaptic function and plasticity.

Cell adhesion molecules in synapse formation

Neuronal transmission relies on signals transmitted through a vast array of excitatory and inhibitory neuronal synaptic connections. How do axons communicate with dendrites to build synapses, and what molecules regulate this interaction? There is a wealth of evidence suggesting that cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) provide much of the information required for synapse formation. This review highlights the molecular mechanisms used by CAMs to regulate presynaptic and postsynaptic differentiation.

Cellular and synaptic distribution of NR2A and NR2B in macaque monkey and rat hippocampus as visualized with subunit-specific monoclonal antibodies

The functional and pharmacological attributes of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor are related to its subunit composition, thus resolving the subunit composition of NMDA receptors in specific classes of synapses is an important step in characterizing excitatory circuits. Toward this end, mouse monoclonal antibodies were raised against fusion protein antigens corresponding to the putative amino acid sequences of human NMDA receptor subunits NR2A and NR2B. The subunit specificity of these monoclonal antibodies was demonstrated with transfected human and rat NMDA receptor cDNAs, and their immunoreactivity was established in rat, macaque monkey, and human brain tissue. At the light microscopic level, both NR2A and NR2B exhibit a distribution in monkey and rat hippocampus very similar to NMDA receptor subunit NR1, and both are highly colocalized with NR1. Electron microscopic immunogold studies demonstrated that both NR2A and NR2B are often present in asymmetric synapses in CA1, commonly colocalized with NR1, and often colocalized with each other in the same asymmetric synapses. Both assembly and synthetic pools are present within spines and spine necks, respectively, particularly for NR2A. The confocal and ultrastructural data suggest that whereas NR1, NR2A, and NR2B are essentially uniformly colocalized in hippocampal projection neurons, there is extensive heterogeneity at the synaptic level that would lead to multiple functional classes of NMDA receptor-mediated synapses, and extensive capacity for plasticity at the synapse. Thus, the subunit profile of a given synapse may be dynamic, with regulation of local synthesis and insertion of different subunits into the synapse leading to a complex, heterogeneous, and shifting set of functional attributes of the NMDA receptor.

Doublecortin Kinase-2, a Novel Doublecortin-related Protein Kinase Associated with Terminal Segments of Axons and Dendrites

The microtubule (MT)-associated DCX protein plays an essential role in the development of the mammalian cerebral cortex. We report on the identification of a protein kinase, doublecortin kinase-2 (DCK2), with a domain (DC) highly homologous to DCX. DCK2 has MT binding activity associated with its DC domain and protein kinase activity mediated by a kinase domain, organized in a structure in which the two domains are functionally independent. Overexpression of DCK2 stabilizes the MT cytoskeleton against cold-induced depolymerization. Autophosphorylation of DCK2 strongly reduces its affinity for MTs. DCK2 and DCX mRNAs are nervous system-specific and are expressed during the period of cerebrocortical lamination. DCX is down-regulated postnatally, whereas DCK2 persists in abundance into adulthood, suggesting that the DC sequence has previously unrecognized functions in the mature nervous system. In sympathetic neurons, DCK2 is localized to the cell body and to the terminal segments of axons and dendrites. DCK2 may represent a phosphorylation-dependent switch for the reversible control of MT dynamics in the vicinity of neuronal growth cones.

Endocytosis and degradative sorting of NMDA receptors by conserved membrane-proximal signals

Regulation of the abundance of NMDA receptors (NMDARs) at excitatory synapses is critical during changes in synaptic efficacy underlying learning and memory as well as during synapse formation throughout neural development. However, the molecular signals that govern NMDAR delivery, maintenance, and internalization remain unclear. In this study, we identify a conserved family of membrane-proximal endocytic signals, two within the NMDAR type 1 (NR1) subunit and one within the NR2A and NR2B subunits, necessary and sufficient to drive the internalization of NMDARs. These endocytic motifs reside in the region of NMDAR subunits immediately after the fourth membrane segment, a region implicated in use-dependent rundown and NMDA channel inactivation. Although endocytosis driven by the distal C-terminal domain of NR2B is followed by rapid recycling, internalization mediated by membrane-proximal motifs selectively targets receptors to late endosomes and accelerates degradation. These results define a novel conserved signature of NMDARs regulating internalization and postendocytic trafficking.

Maturation of glutamatergic and GABAergic synapse composition in hippocampal neurons

It is commonly accepted that glutamatergic and GABAergic presynaptic terminals form perfectly matched appositions opposite their appropriate receptors and associated binding proteins. However, recent reports indicate that certain synaptic proteins that are commonly used to identify excitatory or inhibitory synapses can be mismatched, particularly during development. In order to construct a more comprehensive scheme of synapse composition during development, we co-immunolabeled for several principle excitatory and inhibitory proteins over the course of synaptogenesis in cultured hippocampal neurons. We find that although the majority of synaptic appositions are composed of matched clusters of pre- and postsynaptic proteins appropriate for a particular neurotransmitter, many are initially mismatched, even in dendrites receiving both glutamatergic and GABAergic innervation. Over time, the fidelity of GABAergic synapse composition increases such that, despite the persistence of some mismatched components at glutamatergic sites, the incidence of mismatch diminishes at both inhibitory and excitatory synapses. Activation of either GABA-A or NMDA receptors promotes fidelity at GABAergic sites, but NMDA receptor activation promotes mismatching among glutamatergic synapses. Thus, apposition of pre- and postsynaptic elements can occur independent of neurotransmitter specificity and synaptic activity modifies these associations. Our findings support the idea that synapse maturation occurs in several distinct stages, and that these stages are regulated by a combination of activity-dependent and -independent factors.

Excessive expression of acetylcholinesterase impairs glutamatergic synaptogenesis in hippocampal neurons

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) exerts noncatalytic activities on neural cell differentiation, adhesion, and neuritogenesis independently of its catalytic function. The noncatalytic functions of AChE have been attributed to its peripheral anionic site (PAS)-mediated protein-protein interactions. Structurally, AChE is highly homologous to the extracellular domain of neuroligin, a postsynaptic transmembrane molecule that interacts with presynaptic beta-neurexins, thus facilitating synaptic formation and maturation. Potential effects of AChE expression on synaptic transmission, however, remain unknown. Using electrophysiology, immunocytochemistry, and molecular biological approaches, this study investigated the role of AChE in the regulation of synaptic formation and functions. We found that AChE was highly expressed in cultured embryonic hippocampal neurons at early culture days, particularly in dendritic compartments including the growth cone. Subsequently, the expression level of AChE declined, whereas synaptic activity and synaptic proteins progressively increased. Chronic blockade of the PAS of AChE with specific inhibitors selectively impaired glutamatergic functions and excitatory synaptic structures independently of cholinergic activation, while inducing AChE overexpression. Moreover, the PAS blockade-induced glutamatergic impairments were associated with a depressed expression of beta-neurexins and an accumulation of other synaptic proteins, including neuroligins, and were mostly preventable by antisense suppression of AChE expression. Our findings demonstrate that interference with the nonenzymatic features of AChE alters AChE expression, which impairs excitatory synaptic structure and functions.

Backpropagating action potentials in neurones: measurement, mechanisms and potential functions

Here we review some properties and functions of backpropagating action potentials in the dendrites of mammalian CNS neurones. We focus on three main aspects: firstly the current techniques available for measuring backpropagating action potentials, secondly the morphological parameters and voltage gated ion channels that determine action potential backpropagation and thirdly the potential functions of backpropagating action potentials in real neuronal networks.

Don't get too excited: mechanisms of glutamate-mediated Purkinje cell death

Purkinje cells (PCs) present a unique cellular profile in both the cerebellum and the brain. Because they represent the only output cell of the cerebellar cortex, they play a vital role in the normal function of the cerebellum. Interestingly, PCs are highly susceptible to a variety of pathological conditions that may involve glutamate-mediated 'excitotoxicity', a term coined to describe an excessive release of glutamate, and a subsequent over-activation of excitatory amino acid (NMDA, AMPA, and kainite) receptors. Mature PCs, however, lack functional NMDA receptors, the means by which Ca(2+) enters the cell in classic hippocampal and cortical models of excitotoxicity. In PCs, glutamate predominantly mediates its effects, first via a rapid influx of Ca(2+)through voltage-gated calcium channels, caused by the depolarization of the membrane after AMPA receptor activation (and through Ca(2+)-permeable AMPA receptors themselves), and second, via a delayed release of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores. Although physiological levels of intracellular free Ca(2+) initiate vital second messenger signaling pathways in PCs, excessive Ca(2+) influx can detrimentally alter dendritic spine morphology via interactions with the neuronal cytoskeleton, and thus can perturb normal synaptic function. PCs possess various calcium-binding proteins, such as calbindin-D28K and parvalbumin, and glutamate transporters, in order to prevent glutamate from exerting deleterious effects. Bergmann glia are gaining recognition as key players in the clearance of extracellular glutamate; these cells are also high in S-100beta, a protein with both neurodegenerative and neuroprotective abilities. In this review, we discuss PC-specific mechanisms of glutamate-mediated excitotoxic cell death, the relationship between Ca(2+) and cytoskeleton, and the implications of glutamate, and S-100beta for pathological conditions, such as traumatic brain injury.

Subunit-specific regulation of NMDA receptor endocytosis

At excitatory synapses, both NMDA and AMPA receptors are localized to the postsynaptic density (PSD). However, unlike AMPA receptors, synaptic NMDA receptors are stable components of the PSD. Even so, surface-expressed NMDA receptors undergo endocytosis, which is more robust early in development and declines during synaptic development. We investigated the subunit-specific contributions to NMDA receptor endocytosis, specifically defining the endocytic motifs and endocytic pathways preferred by the NR2A and NR2B subunits. We find that NR2A and NR2B have distinct endocytic motifs encoded in their distal C termini and that these interact with clathrin adaptor complexes with differing affinities. We also find that NR2A and NR2B sort into different intracellular pathways after endocytosis, with NR2B preferentially trafficking through recycling endosomes. In mature cultures, we find that NR2B undergoes more robust endocytosis than NR2A, consistent with previous studies showing that NR2A is more highly expressed at stable synaptic sites. Our findings demonstrate fundamental differences between NR2A and NR2B that help clarify developmental changes in NMDA receptor trafficking and surface expression.

Receptor trafficking and synaptic plasticity

Long-term potentiation and long-term depression are processes that have been widely studied to understand the molecular basis of information storage in the brain. Glutamate receptors are required for the induction and expression of these forms of plasticity, and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors are involved in their modulation. Recent insights into how these receptors are rapidly moved into and out of synaptic membranes has profound implications for our understanding of the mechanisms of long-term potentiation and long-term depression.

The hereditary spastic paraplegia gene, spastin, regulates microtubule stability to modulate synaptic structure and function

BACKGROUND

Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP) is a devastating neurological disease causing spastic weakness of the lower extremities and eventual axonal degeneration. Over 20 genes have been linked to HSP in humans; however, mutations in one gene, spastin (SPG4), are the cause of >40% of all cases. Spastin is a member of the ATPases associated with diverse cellular activities (AAA) protein family, and contains a microtubule interacting and organelle transport (MIT) domain. Previous work in cell culture has proposed a role for Spastin in regulating microtubules.

RESULTS

Employing Drosophila transgenic methods for overexpression and RNA interference (RNAi), we have investigated the role of Spastin in vivo. We show that Drosophila Spastin (D-Spastin) is enriched in axons and synaptic connections. At neuromuscular junctions (NMJ), Dspastin RNAi causes morphological undergrowth and reduced synaptic area. Moreover, Dspastin overexpression reduces synaptic strength, whereas Dspastin RNAi elevates synaptic currents. By using antibodies against posttranslationally modified alpha-Tubulin, we find that Dspastin regulates microtubule stability. Functional synaptic defects caused by Dspastin RNAi and overexpression were pharmacologically alleviated by agents that destabilize and stabilize microtubules, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Loss of Dspastin in Drosophila causes an aberrantly stabilized microtubule cytoskeleton in neurons and defects in synaptic growth and neurotransmission. These in vivo data strongly support previous reports, providing a probable cause for the neuronal dysfunction in spastin-linked HSP disease. The role of Spastin in regulating neuronal microtubule stability suggests therapeutic targets for HSP treatment and may provide insight into neurological disorders linked to microtubule dysfunction.

Secretory trafficking in neuronal dendrites

The neuronal secretory pathway represents the intracellular route for proteins involved in synaptic transmission and plasticity, as well as lipids required for outgrowth and remodelling of dendrites and axons. Although neurons use the same secretory compartments as other eukaryotic cells, the enormous distances involved, as well as the unique morphology of the neuron and its signalling requirements, challenge canonical models of secretory pathway organization. Here, we review evidence for a distributed secretory pathway in neurons, suggest mechanisms that may regulate secretory compartment distribution, and discuss the implications of a distributed secretory pathway for neuronal morphogenesis and neural-circuit plasticity.

Invulnerability of retinal ganglion cells to NMDA excitotoxicity

NMDA excitotoxicity has been proposed to mediate the death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in glaucoma and ischemia. Here, we reexamine the effects of glutamate and NMDA on rat RGCs in vitro and in situ. We show that highly purified RGCs express NR1 and NR2 receptor subunits by Western blotting and immunostaining, and functional NMDA receptor channels by whole-cell patch-clamp recording. Nevertheless, high concentrations of glutamate or NMDA failed to induce the death of purified RGCs, even after prolonged exposure for 24 h. RGCs co-cultured together with ephrins, astrocytes, or mixed retinal cells were similarly invulnerable to glutamate and NMDA, though their NMDA currents were 4-fold larger. In contrast, even a short exposure to glutamate or NMDA induced the rapid and profound excitotoxic death of most hippocampal neurons in culture. To determine whether RGCs in an intact retina are vulnerable to excitotoxicity, we retrogradely labeled RGCs in vivo using fluorogold and exposed acutely isolated intact retinas to high concentrations of glutamate or NMDA. This produced a substantial and rapid loss of amacrine cells; however, RGCs were not affected. Nonetheless, RGCs expressed NMDA currents in situ that were larger than those reported for amacrine cells. Interestingly, the NMDA receptors expressed by RGCs were extrasynaptically localized both in vitro and in situ. These results indicate that RGCs in vitro and in situ are relatively invulnerable to glutamate and NMDA excitotoxicity compared to amacrine cells, and indicate that important, as yet unidentified, determinants downstream of NMDA receptors control vulnerability to excitotoxicity.

Trans-Golgi network delivery of synaptic proteins in synaptogenesis

Synapse formation, stabilization and maintenance comprise several remarkably precise and rapid stages. The initial steps involve delivery to the site of initial contact between axon and dendrite of transport carriers containing several sets of synaptic proteins necessary for proper synaptic function. This occurs both pre- and postsynaptically and is mediated by apparently distinct vesicular carriers that fuse with the synaptic plasma membrane to deliver receptors for neurotransmitters, ion channels, transporters and pumps. The presynaptic carriers in the developing axon give rise to synaptic vesicles. On the postsynaptic side, the so-called spine apparatus may represent a tubular reservoir that gives rise to the postsynaptic players in synaptic function. Recent evidence indicates that recognition molecules, particularly neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), are associated with trans-Golgi-network-derived structures and thus can provide a signal for accumulation of these transport carriers at nascent synapses.

Postsynaptic density assembly is fundamentally different from presynaptic active zone assembly

The cellular mechanisms involved in the formation of the glutamatergic postsynaptic density (PSD) are mainly unknown. Previous studies have indicated that PSD assembly may occur in situ by a gradual recruitment of postsynaptic molecules, whereas others have suggested that the PSD may be assembled from modular transport packets assembled elsewhere. Here we used cultured hippocampal neurons and live cell imaging to examine the process by which PSD molecules from different layers of the PSD are recruited to nascent postsynaptic sites. GFP-tagged NR1, the essential subunit of the NMDA receptor, and ProSAP1/Shank2 and ProSAP2/Shank3, scaffolding molecules thought to reside at deeper layers of the PSD, were recruited to new synaptic sites in gradual manner, with no obvious involvement of discernible discrete transport particles. The recruitment kinetics of these three PSD molecules were remarkably similar, which may indicate that PSD assembly rate is governed by a common upstream rate-limiting process. In contrast, the presynaptic active zone (AZ) molecule Bassoon was observed to be recruited to new presynaptic sites by means of a small number of mobile packets, in full agreement with previous studies. These findings indicate that the assembly processes of PSDs and AZs may be fundamentally different.

Activity-dependent regulation of dendritic synthesis and trafficking of AMPA receptors

Regulation of AMPA receptor (AMPAR) trafficking is important for neural plasticity. Here we examined the trafficking and synthesis of the GluR1 and GluR2 subunits using ReAsH-EDT(2) and FlAsH-EDT(2) staining. Activity blockade of rat cultured neurons increased dendritic GluR1, but not GluR2, levels. Examination of transected dendrites revealed that both AMPAR subunits were synthesized in dendrites and that activity blockade enhanced dendritic synthesis of GluR1 but not GluR2. In contrast, acute pharmacological manipulations increased dendritic synthesis of both subunits. AMPARs synthesized in dendrites were inserted into synaptic plasma membranes and, after activity blockade, the electrophysiological properties of native synaptic AMPARs changed in the manner predicted by the imaging experiments. In addition to providing a novel mechanism for synaptic modifications, these results point out the advantages of using FlAsH-EDT(2) and ReAsH-EDT(2) for studying the trafficking of newly synthesized proteins in local cellular compartments such as dendrites.

In vivo imaging of synapse formation on a growing dendritic arbor

The form of a neuron's dendritic arbor determines the set of axons with which it may form synaptic contacts, thus establishing connectivity within neural circuits. However, the dynamic relationship between dendrite growth and synaptogenesis is not well understood. To observe both processes simultaneously, we performed long-term imaging of non-spiny dendritic arbors expressing a fluorescent postsynaptic marker protein as they arborized within the optic tectum of live zebrafish larvae. Our results indicate that almost all synapses form initially on newly extended dendritic filopodia. A fraction of these nascent synapses are maintained, which in turn stabilizes the subset of filopodia on which they form. Stabilized filopodia mature into dendritic branches, and successive iterations of this process result in growth and branching of the arbor. These findings support a 'synaptotropic model' in which synapse formation can direct dendrite arborization.

The role of AMPA receptor gating in the development of high-fidelity neurotransmission at the calyx of Held synapse

During early postnatal development of auditory synapses, the decay time course of AMPA receptor (AMPAR) EPSCs accelerates markedly, but the mechanisms underlying this process remain uncertain. Using the developing calyx of Held synapse in the mouse auditory brainstem, we have examined presynaptic and postsynaptic elements that may regulate decay kinetics of AMPAR EPSCs. We found that the decay time kinetics was voltage dependent in both immature and mature synapses, being slower at positive potentials than negative potentials. By recording evoked miniature events in extracellular Ca2+ or Sr2+, we revealed a significant decrease in decay time constants of EPSCs as maturation progresses. On the basis of internal and external polyamine block of AMPAR EPSCs and immunohistochemistry assays with subunit-specific antibodies, we demonstrated that the glutamate receptor (GluR) 2 subunit is virtually absent at all developmental ages. Antibody staining patterns suggest a gradual shift in subunit composition from GluR1- to GluR3/4-dominant phenotypes. Kinetic analyses of deactivation, desensitization, and recovery from desensitization in outside-out patches in response to ultrafast application of glutamate lend supportive evidence that such a shift in the gating phenotype likely accounts for the accelerated time course throughout development. Finally, by pharmacologically manipulating AMPAR gating and using simulated EPSCs to evoke action potentials, we demonstrated that rapid decay kinetics of AMPAR EPSCs is essential for this synapse to accommodate high-frequency firing without compromising spike amplitude. Hence, developmental alterations in the subunit composition likely dictate changes in the time course of AMPAR EPSCs and play an indispensable role in the refinement of high-fidelity neurotransmission at the calyx of Held synapse.

Dopamine D1-Dependent Trafficking of Striatal N-Methyl-d-aspartate Glutamate Receptors Requires Fyn Protein Tyrosine Kinase but Not DARPP-32

Interactions between dopaminergic and glutamatergic systems in the striatum are thought to underlie both the symptoms and adverse effects of treatment of Parkinson's disease. We have previously reported that activation of the dopamine D1 receptor triggers a rapid redistribution of striatal N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors between intracellular and postsynaptic sub-cellular compartments. To unravel the signaling pathways underlying this trafficking, we studied mice with targeted disruptions of either the gene that encodes the dopamine- and cAMP-regulated phosphoprotein (DARPP-32), a potent and selective inhibitor of protein phosphatase-1, or the protein tyrosine kinase Fyn. In striatal tissue from DARPP-32-depleted mice, basal tyrosine and serine phosphorylation of striatal NMDA receptor subunits NR1, NR2A, and NR2B was normal, and activation of dopamine D1 receptors with the agonist SKF-82958 [(+/-)-6-chloro-7,8-dihydroxy-3-allyl-1-phenyl-2,3,4,5-tetra-hydro-1H-benzazepine] produced redistribution of NMDA receptors from vesicular compartments (P3 and LP2) to synaptosomal membranes (LP1). In the Fyn knockout mice, basal tyrosine phosphorylation of NR2A and NR2B was drastically reduced, whereas serine phosphorylation of these NMDA subunits was unchanged. In the Fyn knockout mice, the dopamine D1 receptor agonist failed to induce subcellular redistribution of NMDA receptors. In addition, Fyn-depleted mice lesioned with 6-hydroxydopamine also failed to exhibit l-DOPA-induced behavioral sensitization, but this may be caused, at least in part, by resistance of these mice to the neurotoxic lesion. These findings suggest a novel mechanism for the trafficking of striatal NMDA receptors by signaling pathways that are independent of DARPP-32 but require Fyn protein tyrosine kinase. Strategies that prevent NMDA receptor subcellular redistribution through inhibition of Fyn kinase may prove useful in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.

Transcriptional regulation of protein complexes and biological pathways

The cis-element profile (or cis-profile) of a gene refers to the collection of transcription factor binding sites (TFBS) regulating the transcription of the gene. Underlying the various published studies that attempt to discover cis-elements in the vicinity of co-expressed genes via pattern detection algorithms, there is an implicit assumption that a correlation exists between co-expressed genes and their cis-profiles. In this study, we show that the cis-similarity, defined as the proportion of shared TFBS between two cis-element profiles, is higher for functionally linked interacting proteins as well as for members of a signal transduction pathway. A similar analysis of the enzymes catalyzing the conversion of adjacent substrates to products in a collection of metabolic pathways, did not reveal higher cis-similarity. The analysis is based on three distinct sources of publicly available data, namely, 1) the BIND database of interacting proteins, 2) known interactions in NMDAR protein complex, 3) the apoptosis pathway and nine pathways related to metabolism of cofactors and vitamins all from KEGG. Additionally, we analyze the cis-element profiles of all the genes in the glutamate receptor (GR) sub-complex of NMDAR complex to detect a set of cis-elements that occur adjacent to a majority of the genes. We show that most of the corresponding transcription factors are known to be involved in GR regulation by comparing our findings with the published biomedical literature. In addition, we were able to detect transcripts whose gene products associate with GR by searching for transcripts that share the same regulatory signals as those detected for GR. This suggests a novel computational methodology for constructing high-order gene regulatory models and detecting co-regulated gene products.

Effects of age and alcohol exposure during early life on pyramidal cell numbers in the CA1-CA3 region of the rat hippocampus

We have previously shown that exposing rats to a relatively high dose of ethanol during early postnatal life can result in an alteration in spatial learning ability. The hippocampal formation is known to be involved in the control of this ability. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether exposure of rats to ethanol during early postnatal life had either immediate or delayed effects on the numbers of pyramidal cells in the CA1-CA3 subregion of the hippocampus. Wistar rats were exposed to a relatively high daily dose of ethanol at postnatal day 10-15 by placing them for 3 h/day in a chamber containing ethanol vapor. Groups of ethanol-treated (ET), separation control (SC), and mother-reared control (MRC) rats were anesthetized and killed at 16 and 30 days of age by perfusion with phosphate-buffered 2.5% glutaraldehyde. The Cavalieri principle was used to determine the volumes of the CA1 and CA2+CA3 regions. The physical disector method was used to estimate the numerical density of neurons in each of the subdivisions. The total number of pyramidal cells was calculated by multiplying the appropriate estimates of the numerical density by the volume. There were significant age-related reductions in the total numbers of pyramidal cells at 16-30 days of age irrespective of the groups examined. Ethanol treated rats were found to have slightly but significantly fewer pyramidal cell neurons than either the MRC or SC groups. These observations indicate that pyramidal cells in the hippocampus may be vulnerable to a relatively high dose of ethanol exposure during this short period of early postnatal life.

Microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2) expression during synaptic plasticity in the guinea pig cochlea

The expression of different isoforms of microtubule-associated proteins 2 (MAP2), including the low molecular weight form MAP2c present mainly in developing neurons, was investigated in the primary auditory neurons after alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid (AMPA) perfusion in the guinea pig cochlea. MAP2 expression appeared to be tightly regulated in the repairing neurons. Neurite regrowth seems to involve the MAP2c isoform. In cochlear neurons, mechanisms involved in the period of development might be reactivated after excitotoxic injury in the mature cochlea.

Mobility and cycling of synaptic protein-containing vesicles in axonal growth cone filopodia

The spatial distribution and coordination of vesicular dynamics within growth cones are poorly understood. It has long been thought that membranous organelles are concentrated in the central regions of growth cones and excluded from filopodia; this view has dramatically shaped conceptual models of the cellular mechanisms of axonal growth and presynaptic terminal formation. To begin to test these models, we studied membrane dynamics within axonal growth cones of living rat cortical neurons. We demonstrate that growth cone filopodia contain vesicles that transport synaptic vesicle proteins bidirectionally along filopodia and fuse with the filopodial surface in response to focal stimulation, allowing for both local secretion of vesicular contents and rapid changes in the plasma membrane composition of individual filopodia. Our results suggest a new model in which growth cone filopodia are actively involved in both emitting and responding to local signals related to axon growth and early synapse formation.

Mechanisms of Synapse Assembly and Disassembly

The mechanisms that govern synapse formation and elimination are fundamental to our understanding of neural development and plasticity. The wiring of neural circuitry requires that vast numbers of synapses be formed in a relatively short time. The subsequent refinement of neural circuitry involves the formation of additional synapses coincident with the disassembly of previously functional synapses. There is increasing evidence that activity-dependent plasticity also involves the formation and disassembly of synapses. While we are gaining insight into the mechanisms of both synapse assembly and disassembly, we understand very little about how these phenomena are related to each other and how they might be coordinately controlled to achieve the precise patterns of synaptic connectivity in the nervous system. Here, we review our current understanding of both synapse assembly and disassembly in an effort to unravel the relationship between these fundamental developmental processes.

Drebrin-dependent actin clustering in dendritic filopodia governs synaptic targeting of postsynaptic density-95 and dendritic spine morphogenesis

Dendritic spines have two major structural elements: postsynaptic densities (PSDs) and actin cytoskeletons. PSD proteins are proposed to regulate spine morphogenesis. However, other molecular mechanisms should govern spine morphogenesis, because the initiation of spine morphogenesis precedes the synaptic clustering of these proteins. Here, we show that synaptic clustering of drebrin, an actin-binding protein highly enriched in dendritic spines, governs spine morphogenesis. We immunocytochemically analyzed developing hippocampal neurons of low-density cultures. Filopodia-like dendritic protrusions were classified into two types: diffuse-type filopodia, which have diffuse distribution of drebrin, and cluster-type filopodia, which have drebrin clusters with filamentous actin (F-actin). Most cluster-type filopodia were synaptic filopodia. Postsynaptic drebrin clusters were found in both most synaptic filopodia and spines. Postsynaptic PSD-95 clusters, however, were found in only one-half of synaptic filopodia but in most spines. These data indicate that cluster-type filopodia are not mature spines but their precursors. Suppression of the upregulation of drebrin adult isoform (drebrin A) by antisense oligonucleotides against it attenuated synaptic clustering of PSD-95, as well as clustering of drebrin and F-actin. Furthermore, the restoration of drebrin A expression by injection of the expression vectors of drebrin A tagged with green fluorescent protein into the neurons treated with the antisense oligonucleotides induced synaptic reclustering of PSD-95 on clusters of the labeled drebrin A. These data indicated that the synaptic clustering of drebrin is necessary for that of PSD-95 in developing neurons. Together, these data suggest that synaptic clustering of drebrin is an essential step for spine morphogenesis.

Real-time imaging of alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPA receptor) movements in neurons

The mechanisms that regulate alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPAR) synthesis, transport, targeting and surface expression are of fundamental importance for fast excitatory neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity in the mammalian central nervous system. It has become apparent that these control processes involve complex sets of protein-protein interactions and many of the proteins responsible have been identified. We have been working to visualize AMPAR movement in living neurons in order to investigate the effects of blocking protein interactions. Here we outline the approaches used and the results obtained thus far.

Exocyst complex subunit sec8 binds to postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95): a novel interaction regulated by cypin (cytosolic PSD-95 interactor)

The PDZ domains of postsynaptic density (PSD) protein-95 play a role in the localization of PSD-95 and binding partners to neuronal synapses. The identification of binding partners to these PDZ domains can help us in understanding how signalling complexes are assembled. We observed that one of the subunits in the sec6/8 or exocyst complex, sec8, contains a C-terminal consensus sequence for PDZ binding. Sec8 binds to PDZ1-2 of PSD-95, and this binding can be competed with a peptide that binds to PDZ1 and PDZ2 in the peptide-binding site. In addition, binding of sec8 is dependent on its C-terminal-binding sequence namely Thr-Thr-Val (TTV). Immunoblotting of rat tissue extracts shows that sec8 and PSD-95 are enriched in the same brain regions, and sec8 and PSD-95 have the same subcellular distribution in pheochromocytoma cells, suggesting that these proteins may interact in vivo. Immunoprecipitation studies of sec8 and PSD-95 in brain provide further evidence of a sec8 and PSD-95 interaction. Furthermore, the cytosolic PSD-95 interactor competes with sec8 for interaction with PSD-95. Taken together, our results suggest that the cytosolic PSD-95 interactor may function to regulate the ability of sec8 to bind to PSD-95.

The dynamic organization of postsynaptic proteins: translocating molecules regulate synaptic function

Physiological roles for postsynaptic molecules in synaptogenesis and plasticity are under intense investigation. Recent imaging experiments, including GFP-based and single-particle tracking strategies, reveal rapid movement of synaptic components to and from the postsynaptic sites. Furthermore, specific patterns of neuronal activity and/or activation of specific transmitter receptors trigger selective translocation of postsynaptic components. These emerging dynamic properties of synaptic specializations add another layer of complexity to the signaling mechanisms of CNS synapses.

Subcellular segregation of distinct heteromeric NMDA glutamate receptors in the striatum

Functional N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) glutamate receptors are composed of heteromeric complexes of NR1, the obligatory subunit for channel activity, and NR2 or NR3 family members, which confer variability in the properties of the receptors. Recent studies have provided evidence for the existence of both binary (containing NR1 and either NR2A or NR2B) and ternary (containing NR1, NR2A, and NR2B) receptor complexes in the adult mammalian brain. However, the mechanisms regulating subunit assembly and receptor localization are not well understood. In the CNS, NMDA subunits are present both at intracellular sites and the post-synaptic membrane of neurons. Using biochemical protein fractionation and co-immunoprecipitation approaches we have found that in rat striatum binary NMDA receptors are widely distributed, and can be identified in the light membrane, synaptosomal membrane, and synaptic vesicle-enriched subcellular compartments. In contrast, ternary receptors are found exclusively in the synaptosomal membranes. When striatal proteins are chemically cross-linked prior to subcellular fractionation, ternary NMDA receptors can be precipitated from the light membrane and synaptic vesicle-enriched fractions where this type of receptor complex is not detectable under normal conditions. These findings suggest differential targeting of distinct types of NMDA receptor assemblies between intracellular and post-synaptic sites based on subunit composition. This targeting may underlie important differences in the regulation of the transport pathways involved in both normal as well as pathological receptor functions.

The immunoglobulin superfamily protein SYG-1 determines the location of specific synapses in C. elegans

During nervous system development, neurons form reproducible synapses onto specific targets. Here, we analyze the development of stereotyped synapses of the C. elegans HSNL neuron in vivo. Postsynaptic neurons and muscles were not required for accurate synaptic vesicle clustering in HSNL. Instead, vulval epithelial cells that contact HSNL act as synaptic guidepost cells that direct HSNL presynaptic vesicles to adjacent regions. The mutant syg-1(ky652) has defects in synapse formation that resemble those in animals that lack vulval epithelial cells: HSNL synaptic vesicles fail to accumulate at normal synaptic locations and form ectopic anterior clusters. syg-1 encodes an immunoglobulin superfamily protein that acts in the presynaptic HSNL axon. SYG-1 protein is localized to the site of future synapses, where it initiates synapse formation and localizes synaptic connections in response to the epithelial signal. SYG-1 is related to Drosophila IrreC and vertebrate NEPH1 proteins, which mediate cell-cell recognition in diverse developmental contexts.

Proteins interactions implicated in AMPA receptor trafficking: a clear destination and an improving route map

The mechanisms that regulate alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid receptor (AMPAR), synthesis, transport, targeting and surface expression are of fundamental importance to understand the molecular basis of fast excitatory neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity in the mammalian CNS. An area of intense current interest is how AMPARs are directed to the correct locations in the neuron as and when required. This is a multi-layered problem, which involves complex spatio-temporal coordination of multiple protein interactions. Considerable progress has been achieved in identifying a number of proteins that bind directly to AMPAR subunits and the functional consequences of blocking some of these interactions have been determined. This review highlights recent developments in the field.

PSD-95 regulates synaptic transmission and plasticity in rat cerebral cortex

PSD-95 is one of the most abundant proteins found in the postsynaptic density of excitatory synapses. However, the precise functional role played by PSD-95 in regulating synaptic transmission and plasticity remains undefined. To address this issue, we have overexpressed PSD-95 in cortical pyramidal neurons in organotypic brain slices using particle-mediated gene transfer and assessed the consequences on synaptic transmission and plasticity. The AMPA receptor/NMDA receptor (AMPAR/NMDAR) ratio of evoked EPSCs recorded at +40 mV was greater in PSD-95-transfected pyramidal neurons than in controls. This difference could not be accounted for by a change in rectification of AMPAR-mediated synaptic currents since the current-voltage curves obtained in controls and in PSD-95-transfected neurons were indistinguishable. However, the amplitude of AMPAR-mediated evoked EPSCs was larger in PSD-95-transfected neurons compared to matched controls. Paired-pulse ratio analysis suggested that overexpression of PSD-95 did not alter presynaptic release probability. Transfection of PSD-95 was further accompanied by an increase in the frequency, but not amplitude, of AMPAR-mediated mEPSCs. Together, these results indicate that transfection of PSD-95 increased AMPAR-mediated synaptic transmission. Furthermore, they suggest that this phenomenon reflects an increased number of synapses expressing AMPARs rather than an increased number or function of these receptors at individual synapses. We tested the consequences of these changes on synaptic plasticity and found that PSD-95 transfection greatly enhanced the probability of observing long-term depression. These results thus identify a physiological role for PSD-95 and demonstrate that this protein can play a decisive role in controlling synaptic strength and activity-dependent synaptic plasticity.

KIF17 dynamics and regulation of NR2B trafficking in hippocampal neurons

KIF17, a recently characterized member of the kinesin superfamily proteins, has been proposed to bind in vitro to a protein complex containing mLin10 (Mint1/X11) and the NR2B subunit of the NMDA receptors (NMDARs). In the mammalian brain, NMDARs play an important role in synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory. Here we present, for the first time, the dynamic properties of KIF17 and provide evidence of its function in the transport of NR2B in living mammalian neurons. KIF17 vesicles enter and move specifically along dendrites in a processive way, at an average speed of 0.76 microm/sec. These vesicles are effectively associated with extrasynaptic NR2B, and thus they transport and deliver NR2B subunits in dendrites. However, KIF17 does not seem to enter directly into postsynaptic regions. Cellular knockdown or functional blockade of KIF17 significantly impairs NR2B expression and its synaptic localization. Interestingly, the decrease in the number of synaptic NR2B subunits is followed by a parallel increase in the number of NR2A subunits at synapses. In contrast, upregulation of the expression level of NR2B, after treatment with the NMDAR antagonist D(-)-2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoic acid, simultaneously increases the expression level of KIF17. These observations concerning the downregulation or upregulation of KIF17 and NR2B reveal the probable existence of a shared regulation process between the motor and its cargo. Taken together, these results illustrate the complex mechanisms underlying the active transport and regulation of NR2B by the molecular motor KIF17 in living hippocampal neurons.

Neural cell adhesion molecule promotes accumulation of TGN organelles at sites of neuron-to-neuron contacts

Transformation of a contact between axon and dendrite into a synapse is accompanied by accumulation of the synaptic machinery at this site, being delivered in intracellular organelles mainly of TGN origin. Here, we report that in cultured hippocampal neurons, TGN organelles are linked via spectrin to clusters of the neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) in the plasma membrane. These complexes are translocated along neurites and trapped at sites of initial neurite-to-neurite contacts within several minutes after initial contact formation. The accumulation of TGN organelles at contacts with NCAM-deficient neurons is reduced when compared with wild-type cells, suggesting that NCAM mediates the anchoring of intracellular organelles in nascent synapses.

The developing synapse: construction and modulation of synaptic structures and circuits

Synapse formation and stabilization in the vertebrate central nervous system is a dynamic process, requiring bi-directional communication between pre- and postsynaptic partners. Numerous mechanisms coordinate where and when synapses are made in the developing brain. This review discusses cellular and activity-dependent mechanisms that control the development of synaptic connectivity.

Techniques for gene transfer into neurons

To illuminate the function of the thousands of genes that make up the complexity of the nervous system, it is critical to be able to introduce and express DNA in neurons. Over the past two decades, many gene transfer methods have been developed, including viral vectors, liposomes and electroporation. Although the perfect gene transfer technique for every application has not yet been developed, recent technical advances have facilitated the ease of neuronal gene transfer and have increased the accessibility of these techniques to all laboratories. In order to select a transfection method for any particular experiment, the specific advantages and disadvantages of each technique must be considered.