1
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Nelson T, Vargas-Hernández S, Freire M, Cheng S, Gustavsson AK. Multimodal illumination platform for 3D single-molecule super-resolution imaging throughout mammalian cells. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2024; 15:3050-3063. [PMID: 38855669 PMCID: PMC11161355 DOI: 10.1364/boe.521362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Single-molecule super-resolution imaging is instrumental in investigating cellular architecture and organization at the nanoscale. Achieving precise 3D nanometric localization when imaging structures throughout mammalian cells, which can be multiple microns thick, requires careful selection of the illumination scheme in order to optimize the fluorescence signal to background ratio (SBR). Thus, an optical platform that combines different wide-field illumination schemes for target-specific SBR optimization would facilitate more precise 3D nanoscale studies of a wide range of cellular structures. Here, we demonstrate a versatile multimodal illumination platform that integrates the sectioning and background reduction capabilities of light sheet illumination with homogeneous, flat-field epi- and TIRF illumination. Using primarily commercially available parts, we combine the fast and convenient switching between illumination modalities with point spread function engineering to enable 3D single-molecule super-resolution imaging throughout mammalian cells. For targets directly at the coverslip, the homogenous intensity profile and excellent sectioning of our flat-field TIRF illumination scheme improves single-molecule data quality by providing low fluorescence background and uniform fluorophore blinking kinetics, fluorescence signal, and localization precision across the entire field of view. The increased contrast achieved with LS illumination, when compared with epi-illumination, makes this illumination modality an excellent alternative when imaging targets that extend throughout the cell. We validate our microscopy platform for improved 3D super-resolution imaging by two-color imaging of paxillin - a protein located in the focal adhesion complex - and actin in human osteosarcoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Nelson
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Applied Physics Program, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Smalley-Curl Institute, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Sofía Vargas-Hernández
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology Program, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Institute of Biosciences & Bioengineering, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Margareth Freire
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Siyang Cheng
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Applied Physics Program, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Smalley-Curl Institute, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Anna-Karin Gustavsson
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Smalley-Curl Institute, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Institute of Biosciences & Bioengineering, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Center for Nanoscale Imaging Sciences, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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2
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Bjornson KJ, Cahill ME. Assessing protein distribution and dendritic spine morphology relationships using structured illumination microscopy in cultured neurons. STAR Protoc 2024; 5:102829. [PMID: 38236769 PMCID: PMC10827590 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Dendritic spines are protrusions on dendrites forming the postsynaptic aspect of excitatory connections within the brain. Spine morphology is associated with synaptic functional strength and the spatial regulation of protein nanodomains within dendritic spines is an important determinant of spine structure and function. Here, we present a protocol to resolve the nanoscale localization of proteins within dendritic spines using structured illumination microscopy. We describe steps for the structural analysis of dendritic spine parameters, protein localization analysis, and data processing. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Bjornson et al.1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn J Bjornson
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| | - Michael E Cahill
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
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3
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Nelson T, Vargas-Hernández S, freire M, Cheng S, Gustavsson AK. Multimodal illumination platform for 3D single-molecule super-resolution imaging throughout mammalian cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.08.579549. [PMID: 38405960 PMCID: PMC10888752 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.08.579549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Single-molecule super-resolution imaging is instrumental for investigating cellular architecture and organization at the nanoscale. Achieving precise 3D nanometric localization when imaging structures throughout mammalian cells, which can be multiple microns thick, requires careful selection of the illumination scheme in order to optimize the fluorescence signal to background ratio (SBR). Thus, an optical platform that combines different wide-field illumination schemes for target-specific SBR optimization would facilitate more precise, 3D nanoscale studies of a wide range of cellular structures. Here we demonstrate a versatile multimodal illumination platform that integrates the sectioning and background reduction capabilities of light sheet illumination with homogeneous, flat-field epi-and TIRF illumination. Using primarily commercially available parts, we combine the fast and convenient switching between illumination modalities with point spread function engineering to enable 3D single-molecule super-resolution imaging throughout mammalian cells. For targets directly at the coverslip, the homogenous intensity profile and excellent sectioning of our flat-field TIRF illumination scheme improves single-molecule data quality by providing low fluorescence background and uniform fluorophore blinking kinetics, fluorescence signal, and localization precision across the entire field of view. The increased contrast achieved with LS illumination, when compared with epi-illumination, makes this illumination modality an excellent alternative when imaging targets that extend throughout the cell. We validate our microscopy platform for improved 3D super-resolution imaging by two-color imaging of paxillin - a protein located in the focal adhesion complex - and actin in human osteosarcoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Nelson
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Applied Physics Program, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Smalley-Curl Institute, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Sofía Vargas-Hernández
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology Program, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Institute of Biosciences & Bioengineering, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Margareth freire
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Siyang Cheng
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Applied Physics Program, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Smalley-Curl Institute, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Anna-Karin Gustavsson
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Smalley-Curl Institute, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Institute of Biosciences & Bioengineering, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Center for Nanoscale Imaging Sciences, Rice University, 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Department of Cancer Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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4
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Feng Z, Wu X, Zhang M. Presynaptic bouton compartmentalization and postsynaptic density-mediated glutamate receptor clustering via phase separation. Neuropharmacology 2021; 193:108622. [PMID: 34051266 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Neuronal synapses encompass three compartments: presynaptic axon terminal, synaptic cleft, and postsynaptic dendrite. Each compartment contains densely packed molecular machineries that are involved in synaptic transmission. In recent years, emerging evidence indicates that the assembly of these membraneless substructures or assemblies that are not enclosed by membranes are driven by liquid-liquid phase separation. We review here recent studies that suggest the phase separation-mediated organization of these synaptic compartments. We discuss how synaptic function may be linked to its organization as biomolecular condensates. We conclude with a discussion of areas of future interest in the field for better understanding of the structural architecture of neuronal synapses and its contribution to synaptic functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Feng
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Institute for Advanced Study, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiandeng Wu
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mingjie Zhang
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
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5
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Obashi K, Taraska JW, Okabe S. The role of molecular diffusion within dendritic spines in synaptic function. J Gen Physiol 2021; 153:e202012814. [PMID: 33720306 PMCID: PMC7967910 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202012814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Spines are tiny nanoscale protrusions from dendrites of neurons. In the cortex and hippocampus, most of the excitatory postsynaptic sites reside in spines. The bulbous spine head is connected to the dendritic shaft by a thin membranous neck. Because the neck is narrow, spine heads are thought to function as biochemically independent signaling compartments. Thus, dynamic changes in the composition, distribution, mobility, conformations, and signaling properties of molecules contained within spines can account for much of the molecular basis of postsynaptic function and regulation. A major factor in controlling these changes is the diffusional properties of proteins within this small compartment. Advances in measurement techniques using fluorescence microscopy now make it possible to measure molecular diffusion within single dendritic spines directly. Here, we review the regulatory mechanisms of diffusion in spines by local intra-spine architecture and discuss their implications for neuronal signaling and synaptic plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuki Obashi
- Biochemistry and Biophysics Center, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Justin W. Taraska
- Biochemistry and Biophysics Center, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Shigeo Okabe
- Department of Cellular Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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6
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Crosby KC, Gookin SE, Garcia JD, Hahm KM, Dell'Acqua ML, Smith KR. Nanoscale Subsynaptic Domains Underlie the Organization of the Inhibitory Synapse. Cell Rep 2020; 26:3284-3297.e3. [PMID: 30893601 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.02.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibitory synapses mediate the majority of synaptic inhibition in the brain, thereby controlling neuronal excitability, firing, and plasticity. Although essential for neuronal function, the central question of how these synapses are organized at the subsynaptic level remains unanswered. Here, we use three-dimensional (3D) super-resolution microscopy to image key components of the inhibitory postsynaptic domain and presynaptic terminal, revealing that inhibitory synapses are organized into nanoscale subsynaptic domains (SSDs) of the gephyrin scaffold, GABAARs and the active-zone protein Rab3-interacting molecule (RIM). Gephyrin SSDs cluster GABAAR SSDs, demonstrating nanoscale architectural interdependence between scaffold and receptor. GABAAR SSDs strongly associate with active-zone RIM SSDs, indicating an important role for GABAAR nanoscale organization near sites of GABA release. Finally, we find that in response to elevated activity, synapse growth is mediated by an increase in the number of postsynaptic SSDs, suggesting a modular mechanism for increasing inhibitory synaptic strength.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin C Crosby
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Sara E Gookin
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Joshua D Garcia
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Katlin M Hahm
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Mark L Dell'Acqua
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Katharine R Smith
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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7
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Gwosch KC, Pape JK, Balzarotti F, Hoess P, Ellenberg J, Ries J, Hell SW. MINFLUX nanoscopy delivers 3D multicolor nanometer resolution in cells. Nat Methods 2020; 17:217-224. [PMID: 31932776 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-019-0688-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 260] [Impact Index Per Article: 65.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The ultimate goal of biological super-resolution fluorescence microscopy is to provide three-dimensional resolution at the size scale of a fluorescent marker. Here we show that by localizing individual switchable fluorophores with a probing donut-shaped excitation beam, MINFLUX nanoscopy can provide resolutions in the range of 1 to 3 nm for structures in fixed and living cells. This progress has been facilitated by approaching each fluorophore iteratively with the probing-donut minimum, making the resolution essentially uniform and isotropic over scalable fields of view. MINFLUX imaging of nuclear pore complexes of a mammalian cell shows that this true nanometer-scale resolution is obtained in three dimensions and in two color channels. Relying on fewer detected photons than standard camera-based localization, MINFLUX nanoscopy is poised to open a new chapter in the imaging of protein complexes and distributions in fixed and living cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus C Gwosch
- Department of NanoBiophotonics, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jasmin K Pape
- Department of NanoBiophotonics, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Francisco Balzarotti
- Department of NanoBiophotonics, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Philipp Hoess
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jan Ellenberg
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jonas Ries
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefan W Hell
- Department of NanoBiophotonics, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Göttingen, Germany. .,Department of Optical Nanoscopy, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Heidelberg, Germany.
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8
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Iwasaki K, Obashi K, Okabe S. Vasodilator‐stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) is recruited into dendritic spines via G‐actin‐dependent mechanism and contributes to spine enlargement and stabilization. Eur J Neurosci 2019; 51:806-821. [DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kanako Iwasaki
- Department of Cellular Neurobiology Graduate School of Medicine The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Kazuki Obashi
- Department of Cellular Neurobiology Graduate School of Medicine The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Shigeo Okabe
- Department of Cellular Neurobiology Graduate School of Medicine The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
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9
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Feng Z, Chen X, Zeng M, Zhang M. Phase separation as a mechanism for assembling dynamic postsynaptic density signalling complexes. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2018; 57:1-8. [PMID: 30599311 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2018.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The postsynaptic density (PSD) is an electron dense, semi-membrane bound compartment that lies beneath postsynaptic membranes. This region is densely packed with thousands of proteins that are involved in extensive interactions. During synaptic plasticity, the PSD undergoes changes in size and composition along with changes in synaptic strength that lead to long term potentiation (LTP) or depression (LTD). It is therefore essential to understand the organization principles underlying PSD assembly and rearrangement. Here, we review exciting new findings from recent in vitro reconstitution studies and propose a hypothesis that liquid-liquid phase separation mediates PSD formation and regulation. We also discuss how the properties of PSD formed via phase separation might contribute to the biological functions observed from decades of researches. Finally, we highlight unanswered questions regarding PSD organization and how in vitro reconstitution systems may help to answer these questions in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Feng
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xudong Chen
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Menglong Zeng
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mingjie Zhang
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Center of Systems Biology and Human Health, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
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10
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Verstraelen P, Van Dyck M, Verschuuren M, Kashikar ND, Nuydens R, Timmermans JP, De Vos WH. Image-Based Profiling of Synaptic Connectivity in Primary Neuronal Cell Culture. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:389. [PMID: 29997468 PMCID: PMC6028601 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders display a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations. Yet, at the cellular level, virtually all these diseases converge into a common phenotype of dysregulated synaptic connectivity. In dementia, synapse dysfunction precedes neurodegeneration and cognitive impairment by several years, making the synapse a crucial entry point for the development of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Whereas high-resolution imaging and biochemical fractionations yield detailed insight into the molecular composition of the synapse, standardized assays are required to quickly gauge synaptic connectivity across large populations of cells under a variety of experimental conditions. Such screening capabilities have now become widely accessible with the advent of high-throughput, high-content microscopy. In this review, we discuss how microscopy-based approaches can be used to extract quantitative information about synaptic connectivity in primary neurons with deep coverage. We elaborate on microscopic readouts that may serve as a proxy for morphofunctional connectivity and we critically analyze their merits and limitations. Finally, we allude to the potential of alternative culture paradigms and integrative approaches to enable comprehensive profiling of synaptic connectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Verstraelen
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Michiel Van Dyck
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Marlies Verschuuren
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Rony Nuydens
- Janssen Research and Development, Janssen Pharmaceutica N.V., Beerse, Belgium
| | - Jean-Pierre Timmermans
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Winnok H. De Vos
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Cell Systems and Imaging, Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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11
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Smith KR, Penzes P. Ankyrins: Roles in synaptic biology and pathology. Mol Cell Neurosci 2018; 91:131-139. [PMID: 29730177 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2018.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Ankyrins are broadly expressed adaptors that organize diverse membrane proteins into specialized domains and link them to the sub-membranous cytoskeleton. In neurons, ankyrins are known to have essential roles in organizing the axon initial segment and nodes of Ranvier. However, recent studies have revealed novel functions for ankyrins at synapses, where they organize and stabilize neurotransmitter receptors, modulate dendritic spine morphology and control adhesion to the presynaptic site. Ankyrin genes have also been highly associated with a range of neurodevelopmental and psychiatric diseases, including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and autism, which all demonstrate overlap in their genetics, mechanisms and phenotypes. This review discusses the novel synaptic functions of ankyrin proteins in neurons, and places these exciting findings in the context of ANK genes as key neuropsychiatric disorder risk-factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine R Smith
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Denver, 12800 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - Peter Penzes
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 E. Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 E. Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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12
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Feng Z, Zeng M, Chen X, Zhang M. Neuronal Synapses: Microscale Signal Processing Machineries Formed by Phase Separation? Biochemistry 2018; 57:2530-2539. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.8b00313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Feng
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Menglong Zeng
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xudong Chen
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mingjie Zhang
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Center of Systems Biology and Human Health, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
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13
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Zhu J, Zhou Q, Shang Y, Li H, Peng M, Ke X, Weng Z, Zhang R, Huang X, Li SS, Feng G, Lu Y, Zhang M. Synaptic Targeting and Function of SAPAPs Mediated by Phosphorylation-Dependent Binding to PSD-95 MAGUKs. Cell Rep 2017; 21:3781-3793. [DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2017.11.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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14
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Heller JP, Rusakov DA. The Nanoworld of the Tripartite Synapse: Insights from Super-Resolution Microscopy. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:374. [PMID: 29225567 PMCID: PMC5705901 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptic connections between individual nerve cells are fundamental to the process of information transfer and storage in the brain. Over the past decades a third key partner of the synaptic machinery has been unveiled: ultrathin processes of electrically passive astroglia which often surround pre- and postsynaptic structures. The recent advent of super-resolution (SR) microscopy has begun to uncover the dynamic nanoworld of synapses and their astroglial environment. Here we overview and discuss the current progress in our understanding of the synaptic nanoenvironment, as gleaned from the imaging methods that go beyond the diffraction limit of conventional light microscopy. We argue that such methods are essential to achieve a new level of comprehension pertinent to the principles of signal integration in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janosch P Heller
- UCL Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dmitri A Rusakov
- UCL Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Institute of Neuroscience, University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
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15
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Fu AKY, Ip NY. Regulation of postsynaptic signaling in structural synaptic plasticity. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2017; 45:148-155. [DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2017.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Revised: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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16
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Yadav S, Oses-Prieto JA, Peters CJ, Zhou J, Pleasure SJ, Burlingame AL, Jan LY, Jan YN. TAOK2 Kinase Mediates PSD95 Stability and Dendritic Spine Maturation through Septin7 Phosphorylation. Neuron 2017; 93:379-393. [PMID: 28065648 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2016.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2016] [Revised: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Abnormalities in dendritic spines are manifestations of several neurodevelopmental and psychiatric diseases. TAOK2 is one of the genes in the 16p11.2 locus, copy number variations of which are associated with autism and schizophrenia. Here, we show that the kinase activity of the serine/threonine kinase encoded by TAOK2 is required for spine maturation. TAOK2 depletion results in unstable dendritic protrusions, mislocalized shaft-synapses, and loss of compartmentalization of NMDA receptor-mediated calcium influx. Using chemical-genetics and mass spectrometry, we identified several TAOK2 phosphorylation targets. We show that TAOK2 directly phosphorylates the cytoskeletal GTPase Septin7, at an evolutionary conserved residue. This phosphorylation induces translocation of Septin7 to the spine, where it associates with and stabilizes the scaffolding protein PSD95, promoting dendritic spine maturation. This study provides a mechanistic basis for postsynaptic stability and compartmentalization via TAOK2-Sept7 signaling, with implications toward understanding the potential role of TAOK2 in neurological deficits associated with the 16p11.2 region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smita Yadav
- Departments of Physiology, Biochemistry, and Biophysics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Juan A Oses-Prieto
- Mass Spectrometry Facility, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Christian J Peters
- Departments of Physiology, Biochemistry, and Biophysics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Jing Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Programs in Neuroscience and Developmental Biology, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Samuel J Pleasure
- Department of Neurology, Programs in Neuroscience and Developmental Biology, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Alma L Burlingame
- Mass Spectrometry Facility, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Lily Y Jan
- Departments of Physiology, Biochemistry, and Biophysics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Yuh-Nung Jan
- Departments of Physiology, Biochemistry, and Biophysics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.
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17
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Cristino L, Imperatore R, Di Marzo V. Techniques for the Cellular and Subcellular Localization of Endocannabinoid Receptors and Enzymes in the Mammalian Brain. Methods Enzymol 2017; 593:61-98. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2017.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
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18
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Chazeau A, Giannone G. Organization and dynamics of the actin cytoskeleton during dendritic spine morphological remodeling. Cell Mol Life Sci 2016; 73:3053-73. [PMID: 27105623 PMCID: PMC11108290 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-016-2214-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Revised: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In the central nervous system, most excitatory post-synapses are small subcellular structures called dendritic spines. Their structure and morphological remodeling are tightly coupled to changes in synaptic transmission. The F-actin cytoskeleton is the main driving force of dendritic spine remodeling and sustains synaptic plasticity. It is therefore essential to understand how changes in synaptic transmission can regulate the organization and dynamics of actin binding proteins (ABPs). In this review, we will provide a detailed description of the organization and dynamics of F-actin and ABPs in dendritic spines and will discuss the current models explaining how the actin cytoskeleton sustains both structural and functional synaptic plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaël Chazeau
- Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience, University of Bordeaux, UMR 5297, 33000, Bordeaux, France
- Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience, CNRS, UMR 5297, 33000, Bordeaux, France
- Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Grégory Giannone
- Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience, University of Bordeaux, UMR 5297, 33000, Bordeaux, France.
- Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience, CNRS, UMR 5297, 33000, Bordeaux, France.
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19
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The role of the drebrin/EB3/Cdk5 pathway in dendritic spine plasticity, implications for Alzheimer's disease. Brain Res Bull 2016; 126:293-299. [PMID: 27365229 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2016.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2016] [Revised: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The drebrin/EB3/Cdk5 intracellular signalling pathway couples actin filaments to dynamic microtubules in cellular settings where cells are changing shape. The pathway has been most intensively studied in neuronal development, particularly neuritogenesis and neuronal migration, and in synaptic plasticity at dendritic spines in mature neurons. Drebrin is an actin filament side-binding and bundling protein that stabilises actin filaments. The end-binding (EB) proteins are microtubule plus-end tracking proteins (+TIPs) that localise to the growing plus-ends of dynamic microtubules and regulate their behavior and the binding of other +TIP proteins. EB3 binds specifically to drebrin when drebrin is bound to actin filaments, for example at the base of a growth cone filopodium, and EB3 is located at the plus-end of a growing microtubule inserting into the filopodium. This interaction therefore forms the basis for coupling dynamic microtubules to actin filaments in growth cones of developing neurons. Appropriate responses to growth cone guidance cues depend on actin filament/microtubule co-ordination in the growth cone, although the role of the drebrin/EB3/Cdk5 pathway in this context has not been directly tested. A similar cytoskeleton coupling pathway operates in dendritic spines in mature neurons where the activity-dependent insertion of dynamic microtubules into dendritic spines is facilitated by drebrin binding to EB3. Microtubule insertion into dendritic spines drives spine maturation during long-term potentiation and therefore has a role in synaptic plasticity and memory formation. In Alzheimer's disease and related chronic neurodegenerative diseases, there is an early and dramatic loss of drebrin from dendritic spines that precedes synapse loss and neurodegeneration and might contribute to a failure of synaptic plasticity and hence to cognitive decline.
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20
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Robinson CM, Patel MR, Webb DJ. Super resolution microscopy is poised to reveal new insights into the formation and maturation of dendritic spines. F1000Res 2016; 5. [PMID: 27408691 PMCID: PMC4920213 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.8649.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendritic spines and synapses are critical for neuronal communication, and they are perturbed in many neurological disorders; however, the study of these structures in living cells has been hindered by their small size. Super resolution microscopy, unlike conventional light microscopy, is diffraction unlimited and thus is well suited for imaging small structures, such as dendritic spines and synapses. Super resolution microscopy has already revealed important new information about spine and synapse morphology, actin remodeling, and nanodomain composition in both healthy cells and diseased states. In this review, we highlight the advancements in probes that make super resolution more amenable to live-cell imaging of spines and synapses. We also discuss recent data obtained by super resolution microscopy that has advanced our knowledge of dendritic spine and synapse structure, organization, and dynamics in both healthy and diseased contexts. Finally, we propose a series of critical questions for understanding spine and synapse formation and maturation that super resolution microscopy is poised to answer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina M Robinson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Mikin R Patel
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Donna J Webb
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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21
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A binding site outside the canonical PDZ domain determines the specific interaction between Shank and SAPAP and their function. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:E3081-90. [PMID: 27185935 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1523265113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Shank and SAPAP (synapse-associated protein 90/postsynaptic density-95-associated protein) are two highly abundant scaffold proteins that directly interact with each other to regulate excitatory synapse development and plasticity. Mutations of SAPAP, but not other reported Shank PDZ domain binders, share a significant overlap on behavioral abnormalities with the mutations of Shank both in patients and in animal models. The molecular mechanism governing the exquisite specificity of the Shank/SAPAP interaction is not clear, however. Here we report that a sequence preceding the canonical PDZ domain of Shank, together with the elongated PDZ BC loop, form another binding site for a sequence upstream of the SAPAP PDZ-binding motif, leading to a several hundred-fold increase in the affinity of the Shank/SAPAP interaction. We provide evidence that the specific interaction afforded by this newly identified site is required for Shank synaptic targeting and the Shank-induced synaptic activity increase. Our study provides a molecular explanation of how Shank and SAPAP dosage changes due to their gene copy number variations can contribute to different psychiatric disorders.
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Regulation of the Postsynaptic Compartment of Excitatory Synapses by the Actin Cytoskeleton in Health and Its Disruption in Disease. Neural Plast 2016; 2016:2371970. [PMID: 27127658 PMCID: PMC4835652 DOI: 10.1155/2016/2371970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Disruption of synaptic function at excitatory synapses is one of the earliest pathological changes seen in wide range of neurological diseases. The proper control of the segregation of neurotransmitter receptors at these synapses is directly correlated with the intact regulation of the postsynaptic cytoskeleton. In this review, we are discussing key factors that regulate the structure and dynamics of the actin cytoskeleton, the major cytoskeletal building block that supports the postsynaptic compartment. Special attention is given to the complex interplay of actin-associated proteins that are found in the synaptic specialization. We then discuss our current understanding of how disruption of these cytoskeletal elements may contribute to the pathological events observed in the nervous system under disease conditions with a particular focus on Alzheimer's disease pathology.
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23
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Zhu J, Shang Y, Zhang M. Mechanistic basis of MAGUK-organized complexes in synaptic development and signalling. Nat Rev Neurosci 2016; 17:209-23. [DOI: 10.1038/nrn.2016.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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24
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Dieterich DC, Kreutz MR. Proteomics of the Synapse--A Quantitative Approach to Neuronal Plasticity. Mol Cell Proteomics 2016; 15:368-81. [PMID: 26307175 PMCID: PMC4739661 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.r115.051482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Revised: 07/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The advances in mass spectrometry based proteomics in the past 15 years have contributed to a deeper appreciation of protein networks and the composition of functional synaptic protein complexes. However, research on protein dynamics underlying core mechanisms of synaptic plasticity in brain lag far behind. In this review, we provide a synopsis on proteomic research addressing various aspects of synaptic function. We discuss the major topics in the study of protein dynamics of the chemical synapse and the limitations of current methodology. We highlight recent developments and the future importance of multidimensional proteomics and metabolic labeling. Finally, emphasis is given on the conceptual framework of modern proteomics and its current shortcomings in the quest to gain a deeper understanding of synaptic plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela C Dieterich
- From the ‡Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Germany; Research Group Neuralomics, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology Magdeburg, Germany; ¶Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Michael R Kreutz
- §RG Neuroplasticity, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany; ¶Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg, Germany.
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25
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Sydor AM, Czymmek KJ, Puchner EM, Mennella V. Super-Resolution Microscopy: From Single Molecules to Supramolecular Assemblies. Trends Cell Biol 2015; 25:730-748. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2015.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 185] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Revised: 10/03/2015] [Accepted: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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