Neurexin mediates the assembly of presynaptic terminals

Transmitter release face Ca2+channel clusters persist at isolated presynaptic terminals

Ca(2+) influx through N-type Ca(2+) channels (CaV2.2) is known to be critical for transmitter release at many synapses. These channels are known to be localized to transmitter release sites, but their anchoring mechanism remains unknown. Recent studies have demonstrated that presynaptic organization is subject to interactions with the postsynaptic cell or the intervening extracellular matrix. We used a previously described high-affinity antibody against the N-type Ca(2+) channels, Ab571, to localize Ca(2+) channel clusters at the release face of an isolated giant calyx-type synapse to test whether the maintenance of these clusters requires an intact extracellular matrix or contact with the postsynaptic cell. Because the number of Ca(2+) channel clusters was unchanged after extracellular matrix dispersal or nerve terminal isolation, we conclude that presynaptic transmitter release face Ca(2+) clusters can be maintained independently of extracellular influences. Our results suggest that a presynaptic molecular scaffold is responsible for the maintenance of release site Ca(2+) channel clusters.

Selective stabilization and synaptic specificity: a new cell-biological model

How are appropriate connections between neurons sorted from the overwhelming surplus of potential, yet inappropriate, connections? Despite the apparently improbable nature of the process, brains wire themselves with a high degree of reproducibility that has been conserved across evolutionary history. Here, we outline a viable cell-biological model for generating synaptic specificity that features selection of nascent synapses based on adhesion and recognition. This process uses the highly dynamic and stochastic nature of intracellular trafficking to generate reproducible patterns of synaptic connectivity.

Organization of the presynaptic active zone by ERC2/CAST1-dependent clustering of the tandem PDZ protein syntenin-1

Presynaptic active zones contain a cytoskeletal matrix called the CAZ, which is thought to play a critical role in the regulation of active zone formation and neurotransmitter release. Recent studies have identified several CAZ components, but little is known about how they contribute to the molecular organization of active zones. Here, we report a novel PDZ [postsynaptic density-95/Discs large/zona occludens-1] interaction between the CAZ protein ERC2/CAST1 and the tandem PDZ protein syntenin-1, which is known to associate with diverse synaptic proteins, including glutamate receptor subunits, SynCAM, and beta-neurexin. This interaction promotes the localization of syntenin-1 at presynaptic ERC2 clusters. In addition to the PDZ interaction, multimerization of both ERC2 and syntenin-1 mediates syntenin-1 clustering. These results suggest that ERC2 promotes presynaptic syntenin-1 clustering by two distinct mechanisms and that syntenin-1 may contribute to the molecular organization of active zones by linking ERC2 and other CAZ components to diverse syntenin-1-associated synaptic proteins.

The diacylglycerol-binding protein alpha1-chimaerin regulates dendritic morphology

The morphological and functional differentiation of neuronal dendrites is controlled through transcriptional programs and cell-cell signaling. Synaptic activity is thought to play an important role in the maturation of dendritic arbors, but the signaling pathways that couple neuronal activity and morphological changes in dendrites are not well understood. We explored the function of alpha1-chimaerin, a neuronal diacylglycerol-binding protein with a Rho GTPase-activating protein domain that inactivates Rac1. We find that stimulation of phospholipase Cbeta-coupled cell surface receptors recruits alpha1-chimaerin to the plasma membrane of cultured hippocampal neurons. We further show that alpha1-chimaerin protein levels are controlled by synaptic activity and that increased alpha1-chimaerin expression results in the pruning of dendritic spines and branches. This pruning activity requires both the diacylglycerol-binding and Rac GTPase-activating protein activity of alpha1-chimaerin. Suppression of alpha1-chimaerin expression resulted in increased process growth from the dendritic shaft and from spine heads. Our data suggest that alpha1-chimaerin is an activity-regulated Rho GTPase regulator that is activated by phospholipase Cbeta-coupled cell surface receptors and contributes to pruning of dendritic arbors.

Building excitatory and inhibitory synapses: balancing neuroligin partnerships

Processing of neural information is thought to occur by integration of excitatory and inhibitory synaptic inputs. As such, precise control mechanisms must exist to maintain an appropriate balance between each synapse type. Recent findings indicate that neuroligins and their synaptic binding partners modulate the development of both excitatory and inhibitory synapses. Here we highlight these findings and discuss a mechanism potentially involved in controlling the balance between excitation and inhibition.

A splice code for trans-synaptic cell adhesion mediated by binding of neuroligin 1 to alpha- and beta-neurexins

Previous studies suggested that postsynaptic neuroligins form a trans-synaptic complex with presynaptic beta-neurexins, but not with presynaptic alpha-neurexins. Unexpectedly, we now find that neuroligins also bind alpha-neurexins and that alpha- and beta-neurexin binding by neuroligin 1 is regulated by alternative splicing of neuroligin 1 (at splice site B) and of neurexins (at splice site 4). In neuroligin 1, splice site B is a master switch that determines alpha-neurexin binding but leaves beta-neurexin binding largely unaffected, whereas alternative splicing of neurexins modulates neuroligin binding. Moreover, neuroligin 1 splice variants with distinct neurexin binding properties differentially regulate synaptogenesis: neuroligin 1 that binds only beta-neurexins potently stimulates synapse formation, whereas neuroligin 1 that binds to both alpha- and beta-neurexins more effectively promotes synapse expansion. These findings suggest that neuroligin binding to alpha- and beta-neurexins mediates trans-synaptic cell adhesion but has distinct effects on synapse formation, indicating that expression of different neuroligin and neurexin isoforms specifies a trans-synaptic signaling code.

A cytoplasmic motif targets neuroligin-1 exclusively to dendrites of cultured hippocampal neurons

The formation of neuronal synapses is thought to depend on trans-synaptic interactions between cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) on the surface of axons and dendrites. Synapses are highly asymmetric structures. Pre- and post-synaptic domains might therefore be assembled around heterophilic CAMs which are polarized to axons vs. dendrites. We here investigated the targeting of neuroligin (NLG)-1, a heterophilic CAM, which promotes synapse formation through interaction with its receptor beta-neurexin in axons. We demonstrate that NLG-1 is highly polarized to the dendritic plasma membrane. Dendritic targeting relies on a cytoplasmic amino acid motif. By expressing chimeras of NLG-1 and CD8, an unpolarized protein, we show that the cytoplasmic domain of NLG-1 is necessary and sufficient for dendritic targeting. Furthermore, by truncation analysis we isolated a 32-amino-acid targeting motif. When appended to CD8 this cytoplasmic sequence is sufficient to direct exclusively dendritic localization of the protein. Analysis of yellow fluorescent protein-tagged NLG-1 revealed that vesicular structures containing NLG-1 are excluded from the axon indicating that polarized distribution may be achieved by direct dendritic transport. We propose that the strict polarity of NLG-1 contributes to the directional assembly of synapses during development of the central nervous system.

alpha-Neurexins are required for efficient transmitter release and synaptic homeostasis at the mouse neuromuscular junction

Neurotransmission at chemical synapses of the brain involves alpha-neurexins, neuron-specific cell-surface molecules that are encoded by three genes in mammals. Deletion of alpha-neurexins in mice previously demonstrated an essential function, leading to early postnatal death of many double-knockout mice and all triple mutants. Neurotransmitter release at central synapses of newborn knockouts was severely reduced, a function of alpha-neurexins that requires their extracellular sequences. Here, we investigated the role of alpha-neurexins at neuromuscular junctions, presynaptic terminals that lack a neuronal postsynaptic partner, addressing an important question because the function of neurexins was hypothesized to involve cell-adhesion complexes between neurons. Using systems physiology, morphological analyses and electrophysiological recordings, we show that quantal content, i.e. the number of acetylcholine quanta released per nerve impulse from motor nerve terminals, and frequency of spontaneous miniature endplate potentials at the slow-twitch soleus muscle are reduced in adult alpha-neurexin double-knockouts, consistent with earlier data on central synapses. However, the same parameters at diaphragm muscle neuromuscular junctions showed no difference in basal neurotransmission. To reconcile these observations, we tested the capability of control and alpha-neurexin-deficient diaphragm neuromuscular junctions to compensate for an experimental reduction of postsynaptic acetylcholine receptors by a compensatory increase of presynaptic release: Knockout neuromuscular junctions produced significantly less upregulation of quantal content than synapses from control mice. Our data suggest that alpha-neurexins are required for efficient neurotransmitter release at neuromuscular junctions, and that they may perform a role in the molecular mechanism of synaptic homeostasis at these peripheral synapses.

How to build a central synapse: clues from cell culture

Central neurons develop and maintain molecularly distinct synaptic specializations for excitatory and inhibitory transmitters, often only microns apart on their dendritic arbor. Progress towards understanding the molecular basis of synaptogenesis has come from several recent studies using a coculture system of non-neuronal cells expressing molecules that generate presynaptic or postsynaptic "hemi-synapses" on contacting neurons. Together with molecular properties of these protein families, such studies have yielded interesting clues to how glutamatergic and GABAergic synapses are assembled. Other clues come from heterochronic cultures, manipulations of activity in subsets of neurons in a network, and of course many in vivo studies. Taking into account these data, we consider here how basic parameters of synapses--competence, placement, composition, size and longevity--might be determined.

Neuroligins and neurexins: linking cell adhesion, synapse formation and cognitive function

Cell adhesion represents the most direct way of coordinating synaptic connectivity in the brain. Recent evidence highlights the importance of a trans-synaptic interaction between postsynaptic neuroligins and presynaptic neurexins. These transmembrane molecules bind each other extracellularly to promote adhesion between dendrites and axons. This signals the recruitment of presynaptic and postsynaptic molecules to form a functional synapse. Remarkably, neuroligins alone can induce the formation of fully functional presynaptic terminals in contacting axons. Conversely, neurexins alone can induce postsynaptic differentiation and clustering of receptors in dendrites. Therefore, the neuroligin-neurexin interaction has the unique ability to act as a bi-directional trigger of synapse formation. Here, we review several recent studies that offer clues as to how these proteins form synapses and how they might function in the brain to establish and modify neuronal network properties and cognition.

Expression patterns of neurexin-1 and neuroligins in brain and retina of the chick embryo: Neuroligin-3 is absent in retina

Neuroligins (NLs) constitute a family of cell-surface proteins that interact with neurexins (beta-Nxs), another class of neuronal cell-surface proteins, one of each class functioning together in synapse formation. The localization of the various neurexins and neuroligins, however, has not yet been clarified in chicken. Therefore, we studied the expression patterns of neurexin-1 (Nx-1) and neuroligin-1 and -3 during embryonic development of the chick retina and brain by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and in situ hybridization (ISH). While neurexin-1 increased continuously in both brain and retina, the expression of both neuroligins was more variable. As shown by ISH, Nx-1 is expressed in the inner half retina along with differentiation of ganglion and amacrine cells. Transcripts of NL-1 were detected as early as day 4 and increased with the maturation of the different brain regions. In different brain regions, NL-1 showed a different time regulation. Remarkably, neuroligin-3 was entirely absent in retina. This study indicates that synaptogenetic processes in brain and retina use different molecular machineries, whereby the neuroligins might represent the more distinctly regulated part of the neurexin-neuroligin complexes. Noticeably, NL-3 does not seem to be involved in the making of retinal synapses.

The Arg473Cys-neuroligin-1 mutation modulates NMDA mediated synaptic transmission and receptor distribution in hippocampal neurons

Synapses mediate communication between neurons, thus playing a fundamental role in information processing in the CNS. Neuroligins form a family of heterophilic synaptic cell adhesion molecules, and neuroligin 1 (NL1) has been shown to be involved in the formation of excitatory synapses and have been suggested to associate indirectly with NMDA receptors by common binding to PSD95. A mutation in neuroligin 3 (Arg451Cys-NL3, human sequence numbering) identified in autistic patients is associated with altered spine density and has reduced binding capacity for its presynaptic partner beta-neurexin. Here, we investigated the role of NL1 and the homologous NL1 mutation Arg473Cys-NL1 (R473C-NL1) in excitatory synaptic transmission and NMDA receptor distribution. We demonstrate that R473C-NL1, when expressed in cultured hippocampal neurons, can induce a dramatic increase in NMDA current amplitude and that this change is accompanied by NMDA receptor clustering in the postsynaptic cell.

Neuronal activation by GPI-linked neuroligin-1 displayed in synthetic lipid bilayer membranes

We have characterized, in vitro, interactions between hippocampal neuronal cells and silica microbeads coated with synthetic, fluid, lipid bilayer membranes containing the glycosylphosphatidyl inositol (GPI)-linked extracellular domain of the postsynaptic membrane protein neuroligin-1. These bilayer-neuroligin-1 beads activated neuronal cells to form presynaptic nerve terminals at the point of contact in a manner similar to that observed for live PC12 cells, ectopically expressing the full length neuroligin-1. The synthetic membranes exhibited biological activity at neuroligin-1 densities of approximately 1 to 6 proteins/microm(2). Polyolycarbonate beads with neuroligin-1 covalently attached to the surface failed to activate neurons despite the fact that neuroligin-1 binding activity is preserved. This implies that a lipid membrane environment is likely to be essential for neuroligin-1 activity. This technique allows the study of isolated proteins in an environment that has physical properties resembling those of a cell surface; proteins can diffuse freely within the membrane, retain their in vivo orientations, and are in a nondenatured state. In addition, the synthetic membrane environment affords control over both lipid and protein composition. This technology is easily implemented and can be applied to a wide variety of cellular studies.

Polymer-supported membranes as models of the cell surface

Lipid-bilayer membranes supported on solid substrates are widely used as cell-surface models that connect biological and artificial materials. They can be placed either directly on solids or on ultrathin polymer supports that mimic the generic role of the extracellular matrix. The tools of modern genetic engineering and bioorganic chemistry make it possible to couple many types of biomolecule to supported membranes. This results in sophisticated interfaces that can be used to control, organize and study the properties and function of membranes and membrane-associated proteins. Particularly exciting opportunities arise when these systems are coupled with advanced semiconductor technology.

Mechanisms of vertebrate synaptogenesis

The formation of synapses in the vertebrate central nervous system is a complex process that occurs over a protracted period of development. Recent work has begun to unravel the mysteries of synaptogenesis, demonstrating the existence of multiple molecules that influence not only when and where synapses form but also synaptic specificity and stability. Some of these molecules act at a distance, steering axons to their correct receptive fields and promoting neuronal differentiation and maturation, whereas others act at the time of contact, providing positional information about the appropriateness of targets and/or inductive signals that trigger the cascade of events leading to synapse formation. In addition, correlated synaptic activity provides critical information about the appropriateness of synaptic connections, thereby influencing synapse stability and elimination. Although synapse formation and elimination are hallmarks of early development, these processes are also fundamental to learning, memory, and cognition in the mature brain.

Neuronal synapse interaction reconstituted between live cells and supported lipid bilayers

In the nervous system, homophilic and heterophilic adhesion molecules participate in the induction and differentiation of presynaptic transmitter release sites. We focus on the heterophilic interaction between postsynaptic neuroligin-1 (Nlg) and presynaptic beta-neurexin (Nrx). Nlg has previously been shown to trigger presynaptic differentiation in a Nrx-expressing axon even when presented on a non-neuronal cell or on beads coated with lipid bilayers. We have now developed a new method to measure single molecule and ensemble distribution of Nrx and Nlg at the contact site between a non-neuronal Nrx-expressing cell and a flat supported glycosylphosphoinositol-neuroligin-1 (GPI-Nlg) lipid bilayer and relate them to adhesion as measured by cell migration and gravity dissociation. We find that within minutes after cell-bilayer contact, Nrx accumulates at the contact site and the contact area is expanded. The strength of cell-bilayer adhesion depends on the morphology of Nrx accumulation, with the focal concentration strengthening adhesion. The results suggest that Nlg-Nrx interaction rapidly establishes a weak, but specific, adhesion between dynamic pre- and postsynaptic processes, which may ultimately require additional molecules for synapse stabilization.

Learning the chemical language of cell-surface interactions

Harvesting, training, and domesticating living organisms to apply their intrinsic capabilities to desired applications is one of the most fundamental of human accomplishments. Extending this concept to the cellular level requires precise control of the chemical interface between live cells and synthetic materials. One great challenge is to progress from empirically surveying cellular behaviors to the predictive design of synthetic substrates that communicate specific signals to cells. This requires a detailed understanding of cell signaling mechanisms as well as the ability to synthesize hybrid materials that incorporate biological molecules in precisely defined ways. A number of promising advances in the development of synthetic interfaces with cells suggest that the move to predictive design is under way.

Neurexophilin 3 is highly localized in cortical and cerebellar regions and is functionally important for sensorimotor gating and motor coordination

Neurexophilin 3 (Nxph3) is a specific ligand of synaptic alpha-neurexins that are essential for efficient neurotransmitter release. Previous biochemical work demonstrated that Nxph3 interacts with an extracellular domain of alpha-neurexins in a tight complex; however, no information is available on the localization or functional role of Nxph3 in the brain. Here, we generated lacZ reporter gene knock-in mice to investigate the distribution of Nxph3 at the single-cell level and Nxph3 knockout mice to examine its functional importance. Nxph3 expression was restricted mostly to subplate-derived neurons in cortical layer 6b, granule cells in the vestibulocerebellum, and Cajal-Retzius cells during development. Colabeling experiments demonstrated that neurons expressing Nxph3 do not belong to a uniform cell type. Morphological analyses and systematic behavioral testing of knockout mice revealed no anatomical defects but uncovered remarkable functional abnormalities in sensory information processing and motor coordination, evident by increased startle response, reduced prepulse inhibition, and poor rotarod performance. Since Nxph3-deficient mice behaved normally while performing a number of other tasks, our data suggest an important role for Nxph3 as a locally and temporally regulated neuropeptide-like molecule, presumably acting in a complex with alpha-neurexins in select neuronal circuits.

Dissection of Synapse Induction by Neuroligins

To study synapse formation by neuroligins, we co-cultured hippocampal neurons with COS cells expressing wild type and mutant neuroligins. The large size of COS cells makes it possible to test the effect of neuroligins presented over an extended surface area. We found that a uniform lawn of wild type neuroligins displayed on the cell surface triggers the formation of hundreds of uniformly sized, individual synaptic contacts that are labeled with neurexin antibodies. Electron microscopy revealed that these artificial synapses contain a presynaptic active zone with docked vesicles and often feature a postsynaptic density. Neuroligins 1, 2, and 3 were active in this assay. Mutations in two surface loops of neuroligin 1 abolished neuroligin binding to neurexin 1beta, a presumptive presynaptic binding partner for postsynaptic neuroligins, and blocked synapse formation. An analysis of mutant neuroligins with an amino acid substitution that corresponds to a mutation described in patients with an autistic syndrome confirmed previous reports that these mutant neuroligins have a compromised capacity to be transported to the cell surface. Nevertheless, the small percentage of mutant neuroligins that reached the cell surface still induced synapse formation. Viewed together, our data suggest that neuroligins generally promote artificial synapse formation in a manner that is associated with beta-neurexin binding and results in morphologically well differentiated synapses and that a neuroligin mutation found in autism spectrum disorders impairs cell-surface transport but does not completely abolish synapse formation activity.

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.

Postsynaptic assembly induced by neurexin-neuroligin interaction and neurotransmitter

Presynaptic and postsynaptic differentiation occurs at axodendritic contacts between CNS neurons. Synaptic adhesion mediated by synaptic cell adhesion molecule (SynCAM) and beta-neurexins/neuroligins triggers presynaptic differentiation. The signals that trigger postsynaptic differentiation are, however, unknown. Here we report that beta-neurexin expressed in nonneuronal cells induced postsynaptic density (PSD)-95 clustering in contacting dendrites of hippocampal neurons. The effect is specific to beta-neurexin and was not observed with other synaptic cell adhesion molecules such as N-cadherin or SynCAM. NMDA receptors, but not alpha-amino-3-hydroxyl-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionate receptors (AMPARs), were recruited to this beta-neurexin-induced PSD-95 scaffold. Remarkably, AMPARs were inserted into this scaffold upon glutamate application or expression of a constitutively active form of calmodulin kinase II in neurons. Expression of a dominant-negative neuroligin-1 in cultured neurons markedly reduced the sizes and densities of PSD-95 puncta and AMPAR clusters. In addition, excitatory, but not inhibitory, synaptic functions were impaired in these neurons, confirming that PSD-95/neuroligin-1 interaction is involved in postsynaptic assembly at glutamatergic synapses. These results demonstrate that postsynaptic assembly of the glutamatergic synapse may be initiated by presynaptic beta-neurexin and that glutamate release also is required for maturation of synapses.

Molecular mechanisms of dendritic spine development and remodeling

Dendritic spines are small protrusions that cover the surface of dendrites and bear the postsynaptic component of excitatory synapses. Having an enlarged head connected to the dendrite by a narrow neck, dendritic spines provide a postsynaptic biochemical compartment that separates the synaptic space from the dendritic shaft and allows each spine to function as a partially independent unit. Spines develop around the time of synaptogenesis and are dynamic structures that continue to undergo remodeling over time. Changes in spine morphology and density influence the properties of neural circuits. Our knowledge of the structure and function of dendritic spines has progressed significantly since their discovery over a century ago, but many uncertainties still remain. For example, several different models have been put forth outlining the sequence of events that lead to the genesis of a spine. Although spines are small and apparently simple organelles with a cytoskeleton mainly composed of actin filaments, regulation of their morphology and physiology appears to be quite sophisticated. A multitude of molecules have been implicated in dendritic spine development and remodeling, suggesting that intricate networks of interconnected signaling pathways converge to regulate actin dynamics in spines. This complexity is not surprising, given the likely importance of dendritic spines in higher brain functions. In this review, we discuss the molecules that are currently known to mediate the exquisite sensitivity of spines to perturbations in their environment and we outline how these molecules interface with each other to mediate cascades of signals flowing from the spine surface to the actin cytoskeleton.

Expression of three gene families encoding cell-cell communication molecules in the prepubertal nonhuman primate hypothalamus

Transsynaptic and glial-neuronal communication are important components of the mechanism underlying the pubertal activation of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) secretion. The molecules required for the architectural organization of these cell-cell interactions have not been identified. We now show that the hypothalamus of the prepubertal female rhesus monkey expresses a multiplicity of genes encoding three families of adhesion/signalling proteins involved in the structural definition of both neurone-to-neurone and bi-directional neurone-glia communication. These include the neurexin/neuroligin (NRX/NRL) and protocadherin-alpha (PCDHalpha) families of synaptic specifiers/adhesion molecules, and key components of the contactin-dependent neuronal-glial adhesiveness complex, including contactin/F3 itself, the contactin-associated protein-1 (CASPR1), and the glial receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase beta. Prominently expressed among members of the NRX family is the neurexin isoform involved in the specification of glutamatergic synapses. Although NRXs, PCDHalphas and CASPR1 transcripts are mostly detected in neurones, the topography of expression appears different. NRX1 mRNA-containing neurones are scattered throughout the hypothalamus, PCDHalpha mRNA transcripts appear more abundant in neurones of the arcuate nucleus and periventricular region, and neurones positive for CASPR1 mRNA exhibit a particularly striking distribution pattern that delineates the hypothalamus. Examination of LHRH neurones, using the LHRH-secreting cell line GT1-7, showed that these cells contain transcripts encoding NRXs and one of their ligands (NRL1), at least one PCDHalpha (CNR-8/PCDHalpha10), and the CASPR1/contactin complex. The results indicate that the prepubertal female monkey hypothalamus contains a plethora of adhesion/signalling molecules with different but complementary functions, and that an LHRH neuronal cell line expresses key components of this structural complex. The presence of such cell-cell communication machinery in the neuroendocrine brain suggests an integrated participation of their individual components in the central control of female sexual development.

Progress from the postsynaptic side: signaling in synaptic differentiation

The signals mediating synaptic differentiation are critical for our understanding of synapse formation and nervous system development. Recent progress highlights the roles of membrane-bound and soluble signaling pathways in this process. The postsynaptic adhesion molecules neuroligin-1, neuroligin-2, and SynCAM1 provide target-derived signals leading to the assembly of presynaptic terminals. In the reverse direction, neuroligins also relay signals into postsynaptic sites through interactions with their presynaptic partners, the beta-neurexins. This adhesion-based system helps to determine the neurotransmitter specificity of postsynaptic specializations. In addition, soluble molecules are released from target neurons and initiate presynaptic differentiation, as demonstrated for the fibroblast growth factor FGF-22. This Perspective summarizes new insights into early synaptic differentiation signals and discusses underlying principles.

Temporally distinct demands for classic cadherins in synapse formation and maturation

Classic cadherins are synaptic adhesion proteins that have been implicated in synapse formation and targeting. Brief inactivation of classic cadherin function in young neurons appears to abrogate synapse formation when examined acutely. It remains unknown if such abrogation is unique to young neurons, whether it occurs by stalling neuronal maturation or by directly interfering with the process of synapse assembly, or whether synapse targeting is altered. Here we asked if sustained pan-cadherin blockade would prevent or alter the progression of axonal and dendritic outgrowth, synaptogenesis, or the stereotypic distribution of excitatory and inhibitory synapses on cultured hippocampal neurons. While pre- and postsynaptic cadherins are required for synapse assembly in young neurons, we find that in neurons older than 10 days, classic cadherins are entirely dispensable for joining and aligning presynaptic vesicle clusters with molecular markers of the postsynaptic density. Furthermore, we find that the proportion and relative distributions of excitatory and inhibitory terminals on single neurons are not altered. However, synapses that form on neurons in which cadherin function is blocked are smaller; they exhibit decreased synaptic vesicle recycling and a decreased frequency of spontaneous EPSCs. Moreover, they fail to acquire resistance to F-actin depolymerization, a hallmark of mature, stable contacts. These data provide new evidence that cadherins are required to promote synapse stabilization and structural and functional maturation, but dispensable for the correct subcellular distribution of excitatory and inhibitory synapses.

Synaptic scaffolding molecule is involved in the synaptic clustering of neuroligin

S-SCAM has a similar molecular organization to PSD-95. Both of them interact with a cell adhesion molecule, neuroligin. We previously reported that beta-catenin binds S-SCAM and recruits it to synapses. We have here examined using rat primary cultured neurons whether neuroligin recruits S-SCAM to synapses or S-SCAM determines the localization of neuroligin. Overexpressed neuroligin formed larger clusters under co-expression of S-SCAM but not of PSD-95. Overexpressed neuroligin blocked synaptic accumulation of PSD-95 but not of S-SCAM. S-SCAM mutant containing the neuroligin-binding region interfered with synaptic accumulation of neuroligin and PSD-95, whereas the similar mutant of PSD-95 had no effect. Biochemical studies revealed that neuroligin forms a ternary complex with S-SCAM and PSD-95 through manifold interactions. These findings imply that S-SCAM is tethered by beta-catenin to synapses and induces synaptic accumulation of neuroligin, which subsequently recruits PSD-95 to synapses.

Control of Excitatory and Inhibitory Synapse Formation by Neuroligins

The normal function of neural networks depends on a delicate balance between excitatory and inhibitory synaptic inputs. Synapse formation is thought to be regulated by bidirectional signaling between pre- and postsynaptic cells. We demonstrate that members of the Neuroligin family promote postsynaptic differentiation in cultured rat hippocampal neurons. Down-regulation of neuroligin isoform expression by RNA interference results in a loss of excitatory and inhibitory synapses. Electrophysiological analysis revealed a predominant reduction of inhibitory synaptic function. Thus, neuroligins control the formation and functional balance of excitatory and inhibitory synapses in hippocampal neurons.

Neuroligins mediate excitatory and inhibitory synapse formation: involvement of PSD-95 and neurexin-1beta in neuroligin-induced synaptic specificity

The balance between excitatory and inhibitory synapses is a tightly regulated process that requires differential recruitment of proteins that dictate the specificity of newly formed contacts. However, factors that control this process remain unidentified. Here we show that members of the neuroligin (NLG) family, including NLG1, NLG2, and NLG3, drive the formation of both excitatory and inhibitory presynaptic contacts. The enrichment of endogenous NLG1 at excitatory contacts and NLG2 at inhibitory synapses supports an important in vivo role for these proteins in the development of both types of contacts. Immunocytochemical and electrophysiological analysis showed that the effects on excitatory and inhibitory synapses can be blocked by treatment with a fusion protein containing the extracellular domain of neurexin-1beta. We also found that overexpression of PSD-95, a postsynaptic binding partner of NLGs, resulted in a shift in the distribution of NLG2 from inhibitory to excitatory synapses. These findings reveal a critical role for NLGs and their synaptic partners in controlling the number of inhibitory and excitatory synapses. Furthermore, relative levels of PSD-95 alter the ratio of excitatory to inhibitory synaptic contacts by sequestering members of the NLG family to excitatory synapses.

Neuronal nicotinic synapse assembly requires the adenomatous polyposis coli tumor suppressor protein

Normal cognitive and autonomic functions require nicotinic synaptic signaling. Despite the physiological importance of these synapses, little is known about molecular mechanisms that direct their assembly during development. We show here that the tumor-suppressor protein adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) functions in localizing alpha3-nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) to neuronal postsynaptic sites. Our quantitative confocal microscopy studies indicate that APC is selectively enriched at cholinergic synapses; APC surface clusters are juxtaposed to synaptic vesicle clusters and colocalize with alpha3-nAChRs but not with the neighboring synaptic glycine receptors or perisynaptic alpha7-nAChRs on chick ciliary ganglion (CG) neurons. We identify PSD (postsynaptic density)-93, beta-catenin, and microtubule end binding protein EB1 as APC binding partners. PSD-93 and beta-catenin are also enriched at alpha3-nAChR postsynaptic sites. EB1 shows close proximity to and partial overlap with alpha3-nAChR and APC surface clusters. We tested the role of APC in neuronal nicotinic synapse assembly by using retroviral-mediated in vivo overexpression of an APC dominant-negative (APC-dn) peptide to block the interaction of endogenous APC with both EB1 and PSD-93 during synapse formation in CG neurons. The overexpressed APC-dn led to dramatic decreases in alpha3-nAChR surface levels and clusters. Effects were specific to alpha3-nAChR postsynaptic sites; synaptic glycine receptor and perisynaptic alpha7-nAChR clusters were not altered. In addition, APC-dn also reduced surface membrane-associated clusters of PSD-93 and EB1. The results show that APC plays a key role in organizing excitatory cholinergic postsynaptic specializations in CG neurons. We identify APC as the first nonreceptor protein to function in localizing nAChRs to neuronal synapses in vivo.

Neurexins induce differentiation of GABA and glutamate postsynaptic specializations via neuroligins

Formation of synaptic connections requires alignment of neurotransmitter receptors on postsynaptic dendrites opposite matching transmitter release sites on presynaptic axons. beta-neurexins and neuroligins form a trans-synaptic link at glutamate synapses. We show here that neurexin alone is sufficient to induce glutamate postsynaptic differentiation in contacting dendrites. Surprisingly, neurexin also induces GABA postsynaptic differentiation. Conversely, neuroligins induce presynaptic differentiation in both glutamate and GABA axons. Whereas neuroligins-1, -3, and -4 localize to glutamate postsynaptic sites, neuroligin-2 localizes primarily to GABA synapses. Direct aggregation of neuroligins reveals a linkage of neuroligin-2 to GABA and glutamate postsynaptic proteins, but the other neuroligins only to glutamate postsynaptic proteins. Furthermore, mislocalized expression of neuroligin-2 disperses postsynaptic proteins and disrupts synaptic transmission. Our findings indicate that the neurexin-neuroligin link is a core component mediating both GABAergic and glutamatergic synaptogenesis, and differences in isoform localization and binding affinities may contribute to appropriate differentiation and specificity.

Solution structure of AF-6 PDZ domain and its interaction with the C-terminal peptides from Neurexin and Bcr

AF-6 is a key molecule essential for structure organization of cell-cell junction of polarized epithelia. It belongs to a novel cell-cell adhesion system. The AF-6 PDZ domain mediates interactions by binding to a specific amino acid sequence in target proteins. Here we report the solution structure of the AF-6 PDZ domain determined by NMR. Previously, the AF-6 PDZ domain was considered to be a class II PDZ domain. However we found that a unique hydrophilic amino acid, Gln70, at position alphaB1 makes the alphaB/betaB groove of the AF-6 PDZ domain significantly different from that of the canonical class II PDZ domain. The AF-6 PDZ domain does not have the second hydrophobic binding pocket, and the N-terminal end of alphaB is closer to betaB. Using BIACORE and NMR chemical shift perturbation experiments, we have studied the binding characteristics of the PDZ domain to the C-terminal peptide of Neurexin, KKNKDKEYYV, and that of Bcr, KRQSILFSTEV. The C-terminal peptide of Neurexin is a class II ligand, whereas that of Bcr is a class I ligand. The dissociation constants of these ligands were 4.08 x 10(-7) and 2.23 x 10(-6) m, respectively. Each of the four C-terminal positions in Neurexin and Bcr may contribute to the interaction. The three-dimensional models of the AF-6 PDZ-Neurexin C-terminal peptide complex and the AF-6 PDZ-Bcr C-terminal peptide complex were built up by molecular dynamics simulations. Unlike the canonical class II PDZ domain, Ala74 at alphaB5 rather than the residue at alphaB1 makes direct hydrophobic contact with the side chain of Tyr at the -2 position of the ligand.

X-linked mental retardation

Genetic factors have an important role in the aetiology of mental retardation. However, their contribution is often underestimated because in developed countries, severely affected patients are mainly sporadic cases and familial cases are rare. X-chromosomal mental retardation is the exception to this rule, and this is one of the reasons why research into the genetic and molecular causes of mental retardation has focused almost entirely on the X-chromosome. Here, we review the remarkable recent progress in this field, its promise for understanding neural function, learning and memory, and the implications of this research for health care.

Synaptic targeting of neuroligin is independent of neurexin and SAP90/PSD95 binding

Synaptic cell adhesion and synaptogenesis are thought to involve the interaction of neuroligin, a postsynaptic transmembrane protein, with its presynaptic ligand neurexin. Neuroligin also interacts with SAP90/PSD95, a multidomain scaffolding protein thought to recruit proteins to postsynaptic sites. Using expression of GFP-tagged versions of neuroligin in cultured hippocampal neurons, we find that neuroligin is targeted to synapses via intracellular sequences distinct from its SAP90/PSD95 binding site. A neuroligin mutant lacking the intracellular domain fails to target to synapses. These data indicate that postsynaptic targeting of neuroligin does not rely on the scaffolding action of SAP90/PSD95 and is not induced by binding to presynaptic neurexin. Neuroligin is rather targeted to synapses via a postsynaptic mechanism, which may precede and be necessary for subsequent recruitment of neurexin and other neuroligin interactors such as SAP90/PSD95, suggesting a pivotal position for neuroligin in a putative hierarchy of interactions assembling or stabilizing synapses.

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.

Selective capability of SynCAM and neuroligin for functional synapse assembly

Synaptic cell adhesion is central for synapse formation and function. Recently, the synaptic cell adhesion molecules neuroligin 1 (NL1) and SynCAM were shown to induce presynaptic differentiation in cocultured neurons when expressed in a non-neuronal cell. However, it is uncertain how similar the resulting artificial synapses are to regular synapses. Are these molecules isofunctional, or do all neuronal cell adhesion molecules nonspecifically activate synapse formation? To address these questions, we analyzed the properties of artificial synapses induced by NL1 and SynCAM, compared the actions of these molecules with those of other neuronal cell adhesion molecules, and examined the functional effects of NL1 and SynCAM overexpression in neurons. We found that only NL1 and SynCAM specifically induced presynaptic differentiation in cocultured neurons. The induced nerve terminals were capable of both spontaneous and evoked neurotransmitter release, suggesting that a full secretory apparatus was assembled. By all measures, SynCAM- and NL1-induced artificial synapses were identical. Overexpression in neurons demonstrated that only SynCAM, but not NL1, increased synaptic function in immature developing excitatory neurons after 8 d in vitro. Tests of chimeric molecules revealed that the dominant-positive effect of SynCAM on synaptic function in developing neurons was mediated by its intracellular cytoplasmic tail. Interestingly, morphological analysis of neurons overexpressing SynCAM or NL1 showed the opposite of the predictions from electrophysiological results. In this case, only NL1 increased the synapse number, suggesting a role for NL1 in morphological synapse induction. These results suggest that both NL1 and SynCAM act similarly and specifically in artificial synapse induction but that this process does not reflect a shared physiological function of these molecules.

Gene expression changes in the course of neural progenitor cell differentiation

The molecular changes underlying neural progenitor differentiation are essentially unknown. We applied cDNA microarrays with 13,627 clones to measure dynamic gene expression changes during the in vitro differentiation of neural progenitor cells that were isolated from the subventricular zone of postnatal day 7 mice and grown in vitro as neurospheres. In two experimental series in which we withdrew epidermal growth factor and added the neurotrophins Neurotrophin-4 or BDNF, four time points were investigated: undifferentiated cells grown as neurospheres, and cells 24, 48, and 96 hr after differentiation. Expression changes of selected genes were confirmed by semiquantitative RT-PCR. Ten different groups of gene expression dynamics obtained by cluster analysis are described. To correlate selected gene expression changes to the localization of respective proteins, we performed immunostainings of cultured neurospheres and of brain sections from adult mice. Our results provide new insights into the genetic program of neural progenitor differentiation and give strong hints to as yet unknown cellular communications within the adult subventricular zone stem cell niche.

Autism as a paradigmatic complex genetic disorder

Autism is one of the most heritable complex disorders, with compelling evidence for genetic factors and little or no support for environmental influence. The estimated prevalence of autism has increased since molecular genetic studies began, owing to loosening of diagnostic criteria and, more importantly, to more complete ascertainment strategies. This has led to a reduction in the sibling relative risk, but strong heritability estimates remain. It is essential to recognize that genetics is the only current approach to understanding the pathophysiology of autism in which there is not the usual concern about whether one is studying a consequence rather than a cause. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of patients with autism spectrum disorder with documented single-gene mutations or chromosomal abnormalities. Autism may be one of the most complex, yet strongly genetic, disorders in which chromosomal disorders, relatively rare highly penetrant mutations, and multiplicative effects of common variants all have support in different cases and families. The field of complex genetics is replete with many researchers and reviewers who want to promote their overly focused interest in one method at the exclusion of others. However, it is essential that the restricted interests of patients with autism not be reflected in overly restrictive genetic approaches if we are to better understand the genetics of autism in the most expeditious and thorough manner.

PDZ domain proteins of synapses

PDZ domains are protein-interaction domains that are often found in multi-domain scaffolding proteins. PDZ-containing scaffolds assemble specific proteins into large molecular complexes at defined locations in the cell. In the postsynaptic density of neuronal excitatory synapses, PDZ proteins such as PSD-95 organize glutamate receptors and their associated signalling proteins and determine the size and strength of synapses. PDZ scaffolds also function in the dynamic trafficking of synaptic proteins by assembling cargo complexes for transport by molecular motors. As key organizers that control synaptic protein composition and structure, PDZ scaffolds are themselves highly regulated by synthesis and degradation, subcellular distribution and post-translational modification.

Transcriptional control of synaptic differentiation by retrograde signals

Synaptic differentiation during development is a multi-step process, which requires reciprocal communication between pre- and postsynaptic cells. Cell surface interactions can induce the assembly of synaptic specializations but maintenance and growth of synapses depend on transcriptional regulation. Transcriptional responses associated with synaptic differentiation are observed in central and peripheral neurons and depend on retrograde signals coming from the target region. Although the identity of most of the retrograde signaling pathways remains to be identified, the TGFbeta family of growth factors have emerged as one crucial signal at the neuromuscular junction. Here, we discuss evidence for transcriptional control during synaptic differentiation and the signaling pathways mediating retrograde TGFbeta signaling.

The Arg451Cys-neuroligin-3 mutation associated with autism reveals a defect in protein processing

The neuroligins are a family of postsynaptic transmembrane proteins that associate with presynaptic partners, the beta-neurexins. Neurexins and neuroligins play a critical role in initiating formation and differentiation of synaptic junctions. A recent study reported that a mutation of neuroligin-3 (NL3), an X-linked gene, was found in siblings with autistic spectrum disorder in which two affected brothers had a point mutation that substituted a Cys for Arg451. To characterize the mutation at the biochemical level, we analyzed expression and activity of the mutated protein. Mass spectrometry comparison of the disulfide bonding pattern between the native and the mutated proteins indicates the absence of aberrant disulfide bonding, suggesting that the secondary structure of the mutated protein is conserved. However, the mutation separately affects protein expression and activity. The Cys mutation causes defective neuroligin trafficking, leading to retention of the protein in the endoplasmic reticulum. This, in turn, decreases the delivery of NL3 to the cell surface. Also, the small fraction of protein that reaches the cell membrane lacks or has markedly diminished beta-neurexin-1 (NX1beta) binding activity. Other substitutions for Arg451 allow for normal cellular expression but diminished affinity for NX1beta. Our findings reveal a cellular phenotype and loss of function for a congenital mutation associated with autistic spectrum disorders.

A balance between excitatory and inhibitory synapses is controlled by PSD-95 and neuroligin

Factors that control differentiation of presynaptic and postsynaptic elements into excitatory or inhibitory synapses are poorly defined. Here we show that the postsynaptic density (PSD) proteins PSD-95 and neuroligin-1 (NLG) are critical for dictating the ratio of excitatory-to-inhibitory synaptic contacts. Exogenous NLG increased both excitatory and inhibitory presynaptic contacts and the frequency of miniature excitatory and inhibitory synaptic currents. In contrast, PSD-95 overexpression enhanced excitatory synapse size and miniature frequency, but reduced the number of inhibitory synaptic contacts. Introduction of PSD-95 with NLG augmented synaptic clustering of NLG and abolished NLG effects on inhibitory synapses. Interfering with endogenous PSD-95 expression alone was sufficient to reduce the ratio of excitatory-to-inhibitory synapses. These findings elucidate a mechanism by which the amounts of specific elements critical for synapse formation control the ratio of excitatory-to-inhibitory synaptic input.

Mutation screening of X-chromosomal neuroligin genes: no mutations in 196 autism probands

Autism, a childhood neuropsychiatric disorder with a strong genetic component, is currently the focus of considerable attention within the field of human genetics as well many other medical-related disciplines. A recent study has implicated two X-chromosomal neuroligin genes, NLGN3 and NLGN4, as having an etiological role in autism, having identified a frameshift mutation in one gene and a substitution mutation in the other, segregating in multiplex autism spectrum families (Jamain et al. [2003: Nat Genet 34:27-29]). The function of neuroligin as a trigger for synapse formation would suggest that such mutations would likely result in some form of pathological manifestation. Our own study, screening a larger sample of 196 autism probands, failed to identify any mutations that would affect the coding regions of these genes. Our findings suggest that mutations in these two genes are infrequent in autism.

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.

Synaptic adhesion molecules

Formation, differentiation and plasticity of synapses, the specialized cell-cell contacts through which neurons communicate, all require interactions between pre- and post-synaptic partners. Several synaptically localized adhesion molecules potentially capable of mediating these interactions have been identified recently. Functional studies suggest roles for some of them in target recognition (e.g. SYG-1 and sidekicks), formation and alignment of synaptic specializations (e.g. SynCAM, neuroligin and neurexin), and regulation of synaptic structure and function (e.g. cadherins and syndecan).