Modulation of the channel activity of the epsilon2/zeta1-subtype N-methyl D-aspartate receptor by PSD-95

D-Serine inhibits non-ionotropic NMDA receptor signaling

NMDA-type glutamate receptors (NMDARs) are widely recognized as master regulators of synaptic plasticity, most notably for driving long-term changes in synapse size and strength that support learning. NMDARs are unique among neurotransmitter receptors in that they require binding of both neurotransmitter (glutamate) and co-agonist (e.g. d -serine) to open the receptor channel, which leads to the influx of calcium ions that drive synaptic plasticity. Over the past decade, evidence has accumulated that NMDARs also support synaptic plasticity via ion flux-independent (non-ionotropic) signaling upon the binding of glutamate in the absence of co-agonist, although conflicting results have led to significant controversy. Here, we hypothesized that a major source of contradictory results can be attributed to variable occupancy of the co-agonist binding site under different experimental conditions. To test this hypothesis, we manipulated co-agonist availability in acute hippocampal slices from mice of both sexes. We found that enzymatic scavenging of endogenous co-agonists enhanced the magnitude of LTD induced by non-ionotropic NMDAR signaling in the presence of the NMDAR pore blocker, MK801. Conversely, a saturating concentration of d -serine completely inhibited both LTD and spine shrinkage induced by glutamate binding in the presence of MK801. Using a FRET-based assay in cultured neurons, we further found that d -serine completely blocked NMDA-induced conformational movements of the GluN1 cytoplasmic domains in the presence of MK801. Our results support a model in which d -serine inhibits ion flux-independent NMDAR signaling and plasticity, and thus d -serine availability could serve to modulate NMDAR signaling even when the NMDAR is blocked by magnesium.

Significance Statement

NMDARs are glutamate-gated cation channels that are key regulators of neurodevelopment and synaptic plasticity and unique in their requirement for binding of a co-agonist (e.g. d -serine) in order for the channel to open. NMDARs have been found to drive synaptic plasticity via non-ionotropic (ion flux-independent) signaling upon the binding of glutamate in the absence of co-agonist, though conflicting results have led to controversy. Here, we found that d -serine inhibits non-ionotropic NMDAR-mediated LTD and LTD-associated spine shrinkage. Thus, a major source of the contradictory findings might be attributed to experimental variability in d -serine availability. In addition, the developmental regulation of d -serine levels suggests a role for non-ionotropic NMDAR plasticity during critical periods of plasticity.

PLPP/CIN-mediated NF2-serine 10 dephosphorylation regulates F-actin stability and Mdm2 degradation in an activity-dependent manner

Neurofibromin 2 (NF2, also known as merlin) is a tumor suppressor protein encoded by the neurofibromatosis type 2 gene NF2. NF2 is also an actin-binding protein that functions in an intrinsic signaling network critical for actin dynamics. Although protein kinase A (PKA)-mediated NF2-serin (S) 10 phosphorylation stabilizes filamentous actin (F-actin), the underlying mechanisms of NF2-S10 dephosphorylation and the role of NF2 in seizures have been elusive. Here, we demonstrate that pyridoxal-5′-phosphate phosphatase/chronophin (PLPP/CIN) dephosphorylated NF2-S10 site as well as cofilin-S3 site. In addition, NF2-S10 dephosphorylation reversely regulated murine double minute-2 (Mdm2) and postsynaptic density 95 (PSD95) degradations in an activity-dependent manner, which increased seizure intensity and its progression in response to kainic acid (KA). In addition, NF2 knockdown facilitated seizure intensity and its progress through F-actin instability independent of cofilin-mediated actin dynamics. Therefore, we suggest that PLPP/CIN may be a potential therapeutic target for epileptogenesis and NF2-associated diseases.

PLPP/CIN regulates bidirectional synaptic plasticity via GluN2A interaction with postsynaptic proteins

Dendritic spines are dynamic structures whose efficacies and morphologies are modulated by activity-dependent synaptic plasticity. The actin cytoskeleton plays an important role in stabilization and structural modification of spines. However, the regulatory mechanism by which it alters the plasticity threshold remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate the role of pyridoxal-5′-phosphate phosphatase/chronophin (PLPP/CIN), one of the cofilin-mediated F-actin regulators, in modulating synaptic plasticity in vivo. PLPP/CIN transgenic (Tg) mice had immature spines with small heads, while PLPP/CIN knockout (KO) mice had gigantic spines. Furthermore, PLPP/CIN Tg mice exhibited enhanced synaptic plasticity, but KO mice showed abnormal synaptic plasticity. The PLPP/CIN-induced alterations in synaptic plasticity were consistent with the acquisition and the recall capacity of spatial learning. PLPP/CIN also enhanced N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (GluN) functionality by regulating the coupling of GluN2A with interacting proteins, particularly postsynaptic density-95 (PSD95). Therefore, these results suggest that PLPP/CIN may be an important factor for regulating the plasticity threshold.

Dehydroascorbic Acid Attenuates Ischemic Brain Edema and Neurotoxicity in Cerebral Ischemia: An in vivo Study

Ischemic stroke results in the diverse phathophysiologies including blood brain barrier (BBB) disruption, brain edema, neuronal cell death, and synaptic loss in brain. Vitamin C has known as the potent anti-oxidant having multiple functions in various organs, as well as in brain. Dehydroascorbic acid (DHA) as the oxidized form of ascorbic acid (AA) acts as a cellular protector against oxidative stress and easily enters into the brain compared to AA. To determine the role of DHA on edema formation, neuronal cell death, and synaptic dysfunction following cerebral ischemia, we investigated the infarct size of ischemic brain tissue and measured the expression of aquaporin 1 (AQP-1) as the water channel protein. We also examined the expression of claudin 5 for confirming the BBB breakdown, and the expression of bcl 2 associated X protein (Bax), caspase-3, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) for checking the effect of DHA on the neurotoxicity. Finally, we examined postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95) expression to confirm the effect of DHA on synaptic dysfunction following ischemic stroke. Based on our findings, we propose that DHA might alleviate the pathogenesis of ischemic brain injury by attenuating edema, neuronal loss, and by improving synaptic connection.

The stability of NR2B in the nucleus accumbens controls behavioral and synaptic adaptations to chronic stress

BACKGROUND

The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is closely correlated with depression. It has been demonstrated that the glutamatergic system in NAc plays an important role in the reward pathway, dysfunction of which would cause anhedonia, a core symptom of depression. We therefore tested whether N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors and the synaptic plasticity in the NAc are regulated by chronic stress and the relevance to depression.

METHODS

We applied behavioral tests (n = 12, each group) of social interaction and sucrose preference tests to identify the susceptibility of mice to chronic social defeat stress. We then tested N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-long-term depression at cortico-accumbal synapse to determine the relationship between the susceptibility and changes in synaptic plasticity (n = 8, each group). We further investigated whether restoration of these changes could produce antidepressant effects (n = 10).

RESULTS

We found that chronic stress induced selective downregulation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor NR2B subunits in the confined surface membrane pool of NAc neurons. Remarkably, the loss of synaptic NR2B was a long-lived event and further translated to the significant modulation of synaptic plasticity in the form of long-term depression. We further observed that the stress-induced changes were restored by fluoxetine and that resilient mice-those resistant to chronic stress-showed patterns of molecular regulation in the NAc that overlapped dramatically with those seen with fluoxetine treatment. Behaviorally, restoration of NR2B loss prevented the behavioral sensitization of mice to chronic stress.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results identify NR2B in the NAc as a key regulator in the modulation of persistent psychomotor plasticity in response to chronic stress.

Postsynaptic density protein (PSD)-95 expression is markedly decreased in the hippocampal CA1 region after experimental ischemia-reperfusion injury

Synaptic plasticity is important for functional recovery after cerebral ischemic injury. In the present study, we investigated chronological change in the immunoreactivity of PSD-95, a kind of postsynaptic density protein, in the hippocampus proper (CA1-3 regions) after 5 min of transient cerebral ischemia in gerbils. PSD-95 immunoreactivity was observed in MAP-2-immunoreactive dendrites in the CA1-3 regions of the sham group. The PSD-95 immunoreactivity was shown as beaded structure in the MAP-2-immunoreactive dendrites. However, PSD-95 immunoreactivity began to be dramatically decreased in MAP-2-immunoreactive dendrites in the CA1 region, not CA2-3 region, at early time after ischemia-reperfusion. At 5 days after ischemia-reperfusion, MAP-2 immunoreactivity almost disappeared in the ischemic CA1 region, and PSD-95 immunoreactivity was much lower than that in the sham group. In brief, PSD-95 immunoreactivity in the CA1 dendrites was markedly decreased at early time after ischemia-reperfusion. We suggest that decreased PSD-95 immunoreactivity in the ischemic CA1 region may lead to a deficit of postsynaptic plasticity in the brain.

Gating reaction mechanism of neuronal NMDA receptors

The activation mechanisms of recombinant N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NRs) have been established in sufficient detail to account for their single channel and macroscopic responses; however, the reaction mechanism of native NRs remains uncertain due to indetermination of the isoforms expressed and possible neuron-specific factors. To delineate the activation mechanism of native NRs, we examined the kinetic properties of currents generated by individual channels located at the soma of cultured rat neurons. Cells were dissociated from the embryonic cerebral cortex or hippocampus, and on-cell single channel recordings were done between 4 and 50 days in vitro (DIV). We observed two types of kinetics that correlated with the age of the culture. When we segregated recordings by culture age, we found that receptors recorded from early (4-33 DIV) and late (25-50 DIV) cultures had smaller unitary conductances but had kinetic profiles that matched closely those of recombinant 2B- or 2A-containing receptors, respectively. In addition, we examined the effects of cotransfection with postsynaptic density protein 95 or neuropilin tolloid-like protein 1 on recombinant receptors expressed in human embryonic kidney-293 cells. Our results add support to the view that neuronal cultures recapitulate the developmental patterns of receptor expression observed in the intact animal and demonstrate that the activation mechanism of somatic neuronal NRs is similar to that described for recombinant receptors of defined subunit composition.

Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor alleviates perinatal hypoxia-induced decreases in hippocampal synaptic efficacy and neurogenesis in the neonatal rat brain

Using various animal models, studies have greatly expanded our understanding of perinatal hypoxia-induced neuronal injury in the newborn at the cellular/molecular levels. However, the synapse-basis pathogenesis and therapeutic strategy for such detrimental alterations in the neonatal brain remain to be addressed. We investigated whether the damaged synaptic efficacy and neurogenesis within hippocampal CA1 region (an essential integration area for mammalian learning and memory) of the neonatal rat brain after perinatal hypoxia were restored by granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) therapy. Ten-day-old (P10) rat pups were subjected to experimentally perinatal hypoxia. G-CSF (10, 30, or 50 μg/kg, single injection/d, P11-16) was s.c. administered to neonatal rats which were analyzed on P17. Perinatal hypoxia reduced the expression in pRaf-pERK1/2-pCREB(Ser-133) signaling, the synaptic complex of postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95) with N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) subunits (NR1, NR2A, and NR2B), synaptic efficacy, and neurogenesis. A representatively effective dosage of G-CSF (30 μg/kg) alleviated the perinatal hypoxia-induced detrimental changes and improved the performance in long-term cognitive function. In summary, our results suggest a novel concept that synaptic efficacy defects exist in the neonatal brain previously exposed to perinatal hypoxia and that G-CSF could be a clinical potential for the synapse-basis recovery in the perinatal hypoxia suffers.

Glutamate receptor dynamics and protein interaction: lessons from the NMDA receptor

The plasticity of excitatory glutamate synapses emerged over the last decades as a core cellular mechanism for the encoding and processing of various cognitive functions. This property relies in part on the ability to dynamically adjust the content of glutamate receptors in the postsynaptic membrane. Among these receptors, NMDA receptors (NMDAR), which are composed of two obligatory GluN1 and two regulatory GluN2/3 subunits, play a key role in the induction of many forms of plasticity processes. Understanding how NMDAR subtypes are trafficked and regulated in the synapse has thus captured considerable attention. It has emerged that NMDAR synaptic content relies on an equilibrium between intracellular trafficking and rapid lateral diffusion of the receptor within the synaptic area. Here, we review our current understanding of NMDAR trafficking, mostly the ones at the surface membrane, with a specific focus on the role of interacting PDZ-containing proteins during the journey of NMDAR to and around the synaptic area. The cellular and molecular lessons obtained from examining NMDAR dynamics and regulation by interacting proteins appear to apply to other ionotropic neurotransmitter receptors, and thus shed new light on the modulation of excitatory, inhibitory, and modulatory transmission. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'Neuronal Function'.

Insulin, synaptic function, and opportunities for neuroprotection

A steadily growing number of studies have begun to establish that the brain and insulin, while traditionally viewed as separate, do indeed have a relationship. The uptake of pancreatic insulin, along with neuronal biosynthesis, provides neural tissue with the hormone. As well, insulin acts upon a neuronal receptor that, although a close reflection of its peripheral counterpart, is characterized by unique structural and functional properties. One distinction is that the neural variant plays only a limited part in neuronal glucose transport. However, a number of other roles for neural insulin are gradually emerging; most significant among these is the modulation of ligand-gated ion channel (LGIC) trafficking. Notably, insulin has been shown to affect the tone of synaptic transmission by regulating cell-surface expression of inhibitory and excitatory receptors. The manner in which insulin regulates receptor movement may provide a cellular mechanism for insulin-mediated neuroprotection in the absence of hypoglycemia and stimulate the exploration of new therapeutic opportunities.

Anti-depressant natural flavonols modulate BDNF and beta amyloid in neurons and hippocampus of double TgAD mice

Increasing evidence suggests that depression may be both a cause and consequence of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), and that anti-depressants could provide an alternative strategy to current AD therapies. Association of side effect and herbal-drug interaction with conventional anti-depressant and St. John's wort warrant investigating new anti-depressant drugs. Anti-depressant effects of ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) have been demonstrated in animal models of depression and in human volunteers. We report here that ginkgo flavonols quercetin and kaempferol stimulates depression-related signaling pathways involving brain-derived neurotrophic factor BDNF/phosphorylation of cyclic AMP response element binding protein CREB/postsynaptic density proteins PSD95, and reduces amyloid-beta peptide (Abeta) in neurons isolated from double transgenic AD mouse (TgAPPswe/PS1e9). In addition, enhanced BDNF expression and reduction of Abeta oligomers was confirmed in hippocampus of the double transgenic mice administered with flavonol, which correlates with cognitive improvement behaviors in these mice. The present results suggest that stimulating BDNF and reducing Abeta toxicity by natural flavonols provide a therapeutic implication for treatment of AD.

Environmental Enrichment Induces Synaptic Structural Modification After Transient Focal Cerebral Ischemia in Rats

Environmental enrichment (EE), where animals are exposed to a complex novel environment, has been shown to induce synaptic plasticity in both intact and injured animals. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of EE on spatial memory and structural modifications of synaptic junctions in rats following transient focal cerebral ischemia. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent right middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 40 min and reperfusion. On day 3 after MCAO or sham surgery, rats were randomly assigned for 14 days to enriched or standard environmental housing. Spatial memory was then tested by the Morris water maze. Parietal cortex and the CA1 region of hippocampus were processed for electron microscopy and stereological techniques were used to evaluate plasticity of synaptic junctions. EE after MCAO improved spatial memory, with shortened escape length, increased frequency of crossings at the location of the platform, and increased percentage of time spent in the quadrant where the platform was previously located. Synaptic ultrastructural analysis showed that EE after MCAO increased numeric synaptic density in parietal cortex, and induced structural changes in synaptic junctions, with a decreased width of synaptic clefts and increased thickness of postsynaptic densities (PSD) in parietal cortex and hippocampus, accompanying improved performance on the spatial memory task. Using Western blot analysis, we determined the expression of glutamate receptor NMDAR1, and PSD-95, the best characterized protein member of the PSD-95 family, that was abundantly expressed in the PSD of excitatory synapses. The results showed that the content of NMDAR1 was not altered in MCAO rats of EE; however, the phosphorylated NMDAR1 increased significantly when compared with the standard environment housing MCAO rats. In addition, EE inhibited the impaired expression of PSD-95 induced by MCAO in parietal cortex and hippocampus. These data suggest that improved spatial memory of cerebral ischemic rats by EE is associated with structural modifications of synaptic junctions in several brain regions.

Pharmacological characterization of recombinant NR1/NR2A NMDA receptors with truncated and deleted carboxy termini expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The carboxy terminal domain (CTD) of NR2 N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) subunits interacts with numerous scaffolding and signal transduction proteins. Mutations of this region affect trafficking and downstream signalling of NMDARs. This study determines to what extent characteristic pharmacological properties of NR2A-containing NMDARs are influenced by this key functional domain.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Using recombinant receptor expression in Xenopus laevis oocytes and two electrode voltage clamp recordings we characterized pharmacological properties of rat NR1/NR2A NMDARs with altered CTDs. We assessed the effects of truncating [at residue Iso1098; NR2A(trunC)] and deleting [from residue Phe822; NR2A(delC)] the CTD of NR2A NMDAR subunits on agonist potencies, channel block by Mg(2+) and memantine and potentiation of NMDAR-mediated responses by chelating contaminating divalent cations.

KEY RESULTS

Truncation or deletion of the CTD of NR2A NMDAR subunits did not affect glutamate potency [EC(50) = 2.2 micromol.L(-1), NR2A(trunC); 2.7 micromol.L(-1), NR2A(delC) compared with 3.3 micromol.L(-1), NR2A(WT)] but did significantly increase glycine potency [EC(50) = 500 nmol.L(-1), NR2A(trunC); 900 nmol.L(-1), NR2A(delC) compared with 1.3 micromol.L(-1), NR2A(WT)]. Voltage-dependent Mg(2+) block of NR2A(WT)- and NR2A(trunC)-containing NMDARs was similar but low concentrations of Mg(2+) (1 micromol.L(-1)) potentiated NR1/NR2A(delC) NMDARs. Memantine block was not affected by changes to the structure of the NR2A CTD. EDTA-induced potentiation was similar at each of the three NMDAR constructs.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Of the parameters studied only minor influences of the CTD were observed; these are unlikely to compromise interpretation of studies that make use of CTD-mutated recombinant receptors or transgenic mice in investigations of the role of the CTD in NMDAR signalling.

Differential interaction of NMDA receptor subtypes with the post-synaptic density-95 family of membrane associated guanylate kinase proteins

NMDA receptors are a subclass of ionotropic glutamate receptors. They are trafficked and/or clustered at synapses by the post-synaptic density (PSD)-95 membrane associated guanylate kinase (MAGUK) family of scaffolding proteins that associate with NMDA receptor NR2 subunits via their C-terminal glutamate serine (aspartate/glutamate) valine motifs. We have carried out a systematic study investigating in a heterologous expression system, the association of the four major NMDA receptor subtypes with the PSD-95 family of MAGUK proteins, chapsyn-110, PSD-95, synapse associated protein (SAP) 97 and SAP102. We report that although each PSD-95 MAGUK was shown to co-immunoprecipitate with NR1/NR2A, NR1/NR2B, NR1/NR2C and NR1/NR2D receptor subtypes, they elicited differential effects with regard to the enhancement of total NR2 subunit expression which then results in an increased cell surface expression of NMDA receptor subtypes. PSD-95 and chapsyn-110 enhanced NR2A and NR2B total expression which resulted in increased NR1/NR2A and NR1/NR2B receptor cell surface expression whereas SAP97 and SAP102 had no effect on total or cell surface expression of these subtypes. PSD-95, chapsyn-110, SAP97 and SAP102 had no effect on either total NR2C and NR2D subunit expression or cell surface NR1/NR2C and NR1/NR2D expression. A comparison of PSD-95alpha, PSD-95beta and PSD-95alpha(C3S,C5S) showed that PSD-95-enhanced cell surface expression of NR1/NR2A receptors was dependent upon the PSD-95 N-terminal C3,C5 cysteines. These observations support differential interaction of NMDA receptor subtypes with different PSD-95 MAGUK scaffolding proteins. This has implications for the stabilisation, turnover and compartmentalisation of NMDA receptor subtypes in neurones during development and in the mature brain.

Evolution of NMDA receptor cytoplasmic interaction domains: implications for organisation of synaptic signalling complexes

Background

Glutamate gated postsynaptic receptors in the central nervous system (CNS) are essential for environmentally stimulated behaviours including learning and memory in both invertebrates and vertebrates. Though their genetics, biochemistry, physiology, and role in behaviour have been intensely studied in vitro and in vivo, their molecular evolution and structural aspects remain poorly understood. To understand how these receptors have evolved different physiological requirements we have investigated the molecular evolution of glutamate gated receptors and ion channels, in particular the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, which is essential for higher cognitive function. Studies of rodent NMDA receptors show that the C-terminal intracellular domain forms a signalling complex with enzymes and scaffold proteins, which is important for neuronal and behavioural plasticity

Results

The vertebrate NMDA receptor was found to have subunits with C-terminal domains up to 500 amino acids longer than invertebrates. This extension was specific to the NR2 subunit and occurred before the duplication and subsequent divergence of NR2 in the vertebrate lineage. The shorter invertebrate C-terminus lacked vertebrate protein interaction motifs involved with forming a signaling complex although the terminal PDZ interaction domain was conserved. The vertebrate NR2 C-terminal domain was predicted to be intrinsically disordered but with a conserved secondary structure.

Conclusion

We highlight an evolutionary adaptation specific to vertebrate NMDA receptor NR2 subunits. Using in silico methods we find that evolution has shaped the NMDA receptor C-terminus into an unstructured but modular intracellular domain that parallels the expansion in complexity of an NMDA receptor signalling complex in the vertebrate lineage. We propose the NR2 C-terminus has evolved to be a natively unstructured yet flexible hub organising postsynaptic signalling. The evolution of the NR2 C-terminus and its associated signalling complex may contribute to species differences in behaviour and in particular cognitive function.

Hepatocyte growth factor improves synaptic localization of the NMDA receptor and intracellular signaling after excitotoxic injury in cultured hippocampal neurons

To examine the effects of HGF on synaptic densities under excitotoxic conditions, we investigated changes in the number of puncta detected by double immunostaining with NMDA receptor subunits and presynaptic markers in cultured hippocampal neurons. Exposure of hippocampal neurons to excitotoxic NMDA (100 muM) decreased the synaptic localization of NMDA receptor subunit NR2B, whereas synaptic NR1 and NR2A clusters were not altered. Colocalization of PSD-95, a scaffolding protein of the receptor, with the presynaptic protein synapsin I was also decreased after excitotoxicity. Treatment with HGF attenuated these decreases in number. The decrease in the levels of surface NR2B subunits following the addition of the excitotoxic NMDA was also attenuated by the HGF treatment. The decrease in CREB phosphorylation in response to depolarization-evoked NMDA receptor activation was prevented by the HGF treatment. These results suggest that HGF not only prevented neuronal cell death but also attenuated the decrease in synaptic localization of NMDA receptor subunits and prevented intracellular signaling through the NMDA receptor.

Hepatocyte growth factor promotes the number of PSD-95 clusters in young hippocampal neurons

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor are expressed in various regions of the brain and have protective effects against excitotoxic injuries. However, their effects on synapse formation remain to be elucidated. To determine whether HGF has the ability to alter synaptic function during development, we investigated changes in the number of synapse detected by double immunostaining for NMDA receptor subunits and a presynaptic marker in cultured young hippocampal neurons. Whereas application of HGF increased the number of cluster of synapsin, a presynaptic protein, the clusters of NMDA receptor subunits NR1 and NR2B were not altered. Interestingly, colocalization of PSD-95, a scaffolding protein of the receptor, with synapsin was increased by HGF treatment without a change in the total amount of it. In addition, we investigated the expression of surface NMDA receptor, neuroligin, and neurexin, which were assessed by use of a cell-surface biotinylation assay. The application of HGF did not change the surface expression of these proteins. Furthermore, we determined the release of glutamate in response to depolarization. Treatment with HGF promoted depolarization-evoked release of glutamate. These results suggest that HGF modulates the expression of the scaffolding protein of the NMDA receptor at the synapse and promotes maturation of excitatory synapses in young hippocampal neurons.

Impaired expression of postsynaptic density proteins in the hippocampal CA1 region of rats following perinatal hypoxia

Perinatal hypoxia is an important cause of brain injury amongst the newborn, such injury often resulting in an increased risk of impaired performance as regards learning and memory in later life for the affected individual. The postsynaptic density 95 (PSD-95) protein is a cytoskeletal specialization involved in the anchoring of N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in postsynaptic neurons and has been reported to serve several important functions (e.g., synaptogenesis, synaptic plasticity and learning and memory performance) for the mammalian brain. Herein we investigated the long-term effects of perinatal hypoxia upon the complex of PSD-95 with NMDAR subunits by means of downstream signalling cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation at the Serine-133 locus (CREB(Ser-133) phosphorylation) within the hippocampal CA1 area (an essential integration area for mammalian learning and memory) within test-rat brains, as well as the effects upon afflicted-individual long-term learning and memory performance. We also assessed the therapeutic efficacy of dopamine D1/D5 receptor (D1/D5R) activation for such study animals. Perinatal hypoxia on postnatal day ten (P10) led to impaired performance as regards long-term spatial learning and memory (as determined on P45) associated with decreases in the level of CREB(Ser-133) phosphorylation and decreases in the expression of the complex of PSD-95 with NMDAR subunits (NR1, NR2A, and NR2B). In addition, activation of the D1/D5R via A68930 (a selective, CNS-permeable agonist of D1/D5Rs) administration (2 mg/kg/day, P17-23 inclusively) markedly attenuated the hypoxia-induced deleterious effects, suggesting an effective therapeutic efficacy for A68930. Our results demonstrate the long-term effects of perinatal hypoxia upon the developing brain and provide additional insights into the relative vulnerability of postsynaptic density (PSD) proteins to such insult, as well as the impairment of downstream transcription signalling CREB(Ser-133) phosphorylation following perinatal hypoxia. More importantly, D1/D5R activation following perinatal hypoxia may be an alternative therapeutic strategy to that which is currently available and may offer significant clinical potential for hypoxia sufferers.

PSD-95 and PKC converge in regulating NMDA receptor trafficking and gating

Neuronal NMDA receptors (NMDARs) colocalize with postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95), a putative NMDAR anchoring protein and core component of the PSD, at excitatory synapses. PKC activation and PSD-95 expression each enhance NMDAR channel opening rate and number of functional channels at the cell surface. Here we show in Xenopus oocytes that PSD-95 and PKC potentiate NMDA gating and trafficking in a nonadditive manner. PSD-95 and PKC each enhance NMDA channel activity, with no change in single-channel conductance, reversal potential or mean open time. PSD-95 and PKC each potentiate NMDA channel opening rate (k(beta)) and number of functional channels at the cell surface (N), as indicated by more rapid current decay and enhanced charge transfer in the presence of the open channel blocker MK-801. PSD-95 and PKC each increase NMDAR surface expression, as indicated by immunofluorescence. PKC potentiates NMDA channel function and NMDAR surface expression to the same final absolute values in the absence or presence of PSD-95. Thus, PSD-95 partially occludes PKC potentiation. We further show that Ser-1462, a putative phosphorylation target within the PDZ-binding motif of the NR2A subunit, is required for PSD-95-induced potentiation and partial occlusion of PKC potentiation. Coimmunoprecipitation experiments with cortical neurons in culture indicate that PKC activation promotes assembly of NR2 with NR1, and that the newly assembled NMDARs are not associated with PSD-95. These findings predict that synaptic scaffolding proteins and protein kinases convergently modulate NMDAR gating and trafficking at synaptic sites.

Molecular organization and assembly of the postsynaptic density of excitatory brain synapses

The postsynaptic density (PSD) is a postsynaptic membrane specialization at excitatory synapses. The PSD is made of macromolecular multiprotein complexes, which contain a variety of synaptic proteins including membrane, scaffolding, and signaling proteins. By coaggregating with postsynaptic cell adhesion molecules, PSD proteins promote the formation and maturation of excitatory synapses. PSD proteins organize signaling pathways to coordinate structural and functional changes in synapses, and they regulate trafficking and recycling of glutamate receptors, which determines synaptic strength and plasticity. Synaptic activity dynamically regulates the assembly of the PSD through mechanisms including protein phosphorylation, palmitoylation, and protein degradation. PSD proteins associate with diverse motor proteins, suggesting that they function as adaptors linking motors to their specific cargoes.

Alterations of postsynaptic density proteins in the hippocampus of rat offspring from the morphine-addicted mother: Beneficial effect of dextromethorphan

Infants passively exposed to morphine or heroin through their addicted mothers usually develop characteristic withdrawal syndrome of morphine after birth. In such early life, the central nervous system exhibits significant plasticity and can be altered by various prenatal influences, including prenatal morphine exposure. Here we studied the effects of prenatal morphine exposure on postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95), an important cytoskeletal specialization involved in the anchoring of the NMDAR and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), of the hippocampal CA1 subregion from young offspring at postnatal day 14 (P14). We also evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of dextromethorphan, a widely used antitussive drug with noncompetitive antagonistic effects on NMDARs, for such offspring. The results revealed that prenatal morphine exposure caused a maximal decrease in PSD-95 expression at P14 followed by an age-dependent improvement. In addition, prenatal morphine exposure reduced not only the expression of nNOS and the phosphorylation of cAMP responsive element-binding protein at serine 133 (CREB(Serine-133)), but also the magnitude of long-term depression (LTD) at P14. Subsequently, the morphine-treated offspring exhibited impaired performance in long-term learning and memory at later ages (P28-29). Prenatal coadministration of dextromethorphan with morphine during pregnancy and throughout lactation could significantly attenuate the adverse effects as described above. Collectively, the study demonstrates that maternal exposure to morphine decreases the magnitude of PSD-95, nNOS, the phosphorylation of CREB(Serine-133), and LTD expression in hippocampal CA1 subregion of young offspring (e.g., P14). Such alterations within the developing brain may play a role for subsequent neurological impairments (e.g., impaired performance of long-term learning and memory). The results raise a possibility that postsynaptic density proteins could serve an important role, at least in part, for the neurobiological pathogenesis in offspring from the morphine-addicted mother and provide tentative therapeutic strategy.

Alterations in long-term seizure susceptibility and the complex of PSD-95 with NMDA receptor from animals previously exposed to perinatal hypoxia

PURPOSE

Perinatal hypoxia is an important cause of brain injury in the newborn and has consequences that are potentially devastating and life-long, such as an increased risk of epilepsy in later life. The postsynaptic density (PSD) is a cytoskeletal specialization involved in the anchoring of neurotransmitter receptors and in regulating the response of postsynaptic neurons to synaptic stimulation. The postsynaptic protein PSD-95 binds to the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) subunit, and hence activates cascades of NMDAR-mediated events, such as cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-responsive element binding protein phosphorylation at serine-133 (pCREB(Serine-133)). Here we studied the effect of perinatal hypoxia on protein interactions involving PSD-95 and the NMDAR, as well as pCREB(Ser-133) expression at an age when the animals show increased seizure susceptibility.

METHODS

Rats were assigned randomly to the control rats or the rats exposed to transient global hypoxia at postnatal day 10 (P10). At P45, some rats from both groups were treated with pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) intraperitoneally to test the seizure threshold, and others were studied for neuronal loss, pCREB(Serine-133), PSD-95, and NMDAR expressions in the midbrain, temporal cortex, and hippocampal CA1 subfield by using immunohistochemistry, co-immunoprecipitation, and immunoblotting techniques, respectively.

RESULTS

The rats with prior exposure to perinatal hypoxia exhibited increased seizure susceptibility to PTZ, compared with the control rats. Associated with this long-term change in seizure susceptibility, selective neuronal loss was observed in the midbrain region while pCREB(Ser-133) expression was reduced in the midbrain, temporal cortex, and hippocampal CA1 subfield. Perinatal hypoxia led to a decrease in PSD-95 expression in the both midbrain and hippocampal CA1 subfield, with the exception of temporal cortex. Furthermore, the association between PSD-95 and NMDAR subunits (NR1, NR2A, and NR2B) in the hippocampal CA1 was also markedly altered by perinatal hypoxia.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that the decrease in several protein complexes that are essential components of the postsynaptic apparatus is associated with the observed increase in seizure susceptibility in adult rats with prior exposure to perinatal hypoxia. The results indicate that reductions in PSD-95 expression, PSD-95 binding of NMDAR subunits, and subsequent NMDAR-mediated CREB phosphorylation, particularly in hippocampal CA1, are long-term consequences of perinatal hypoxia and may, at least in part, contribute to perinatal hypoxia-induced reduction in seizure threshold.

Activation of c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase 3 is mediated by the GluR6.PSD-95.MLK3 signaling module following cerebral ischemia in rat hippocampus

Kainate receptor glutamate receptor 6 (GluR6) binds to the postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95), which in turn anchors mixed lineage kinase 3 (MLK3) via SH3 domain in rat brain tissue. MLK3 subsequently activates c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK) via MAP kinase kinases (MKKs). We investigated the association of PSD-95 with GluR6 and MLK3, MLK3 autophosphorylation, the interaction of MLK3 with JNK3, and JNK3 phosphorylation following cerebral ischemia in rat hippocampus. Our results indicate that the GluR6.PSD-95.MLK3 complex peaked at 6 h of reperfusion. Furthermore, MLK3 autophosphorylation and the interaction of MLK3 with JNK3 occurred with the alteration of GluR6.PSD-95.MLK3 signaling module. To further prove whether JNK3 activation in ischemic hippocampus is mediated by GluR6.PSD-95.MLK3 signaling pathway, the AMPA/KA receptor antagonist 6,7-dinitroquinoxaline-2, (1H, 4H)-dione (DNQX), the GluR6 antagonist 6,7,8,9-Tetrahydro-5-nitro-1H-benz[g]indole-2,3-dione-3-oxime (NS102), the AMPA receptor antagonist 1-(4-aminophenyl)-4-methyl-7,8-methylenedioxy-5H-2,3-benzo diazepine (GYKI52466), and the NMDA receptor antagonist ketamine were given to the rats 20 min prior to ischemia. Our findings indicate that both DNQX and NS102 significantly attenuated the association of PSD-95 with GluR6 and MLK3, MLK3 autophosphorylation, interaction of MLK3 with JNK3, and JNK3 phosphorylation, while GYKI52466 and ketamine had no effect. Moreover, administration of NS102 before cerebral ischemia significantly increased the number of the surviving hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells at 5 days of reperfusion. Consequently, GluR6, one subunit of kainate receptor, plays a critical role in inducing JNK3 activation after ischemic injury.

Interactions of postsynaptic density-95 and the NMDA receptor 2 subunit control calpain-mediated cleavage of the NMDA receptor

The calcium-dependent protease calpain cleaves the NMDA receptor 2 (NR2) subunit of the NMDA receptor both in vitro and in vivo and thus potentially modulates NMDA receptor function and turnover. We examined the ability of postsynaptic density-95 (PSD-95) protein to alter the calpain-mediated cleavage of NR2A and NR2B. Coexpression of PSD-95 with NMDA receptors in human embryonic kidney 293 cells blocked cleavage of NR2A and NR2B by NMDA receptor-activated calpain. NR2A cleavage by calpain occurred in the cell surface and intracellular fractions and required the presence of NR1 subunits. The blocking effect of PSD-95 did not result from decreased calpain activity, lowered intracellular calcium responses, or the blockade of internalization. Instead, this effect was eliminated by deletion of the C-terminal ESDV motif of NR2A or by overexpression of a palmitoylation-deficient PSD-95 mutant lacking the ability to cluster and to interact with NMDA receptors in situ, suggesting a role for association between the C terminus of NR2A and clustered PSD-95. Synapse-associated protein 102, a membrane-associated guanylate kinase interacting with NR2A but lacking palmitoylation motifs and the ability to cluster, did not protect NR2A from cleavage by calpain. Pharmacological inhibition of palmitoylation disrupted the interaction of PSD-95 with NMDA receptors in cortical neurons and allowed NR2A to be cleaved by calpain, whereas NR2A could not be cleaved in untreated neurons. These results indicate that PSD-95 clustering and direct association of NR2A and PSD-95 mediate the blocking effect of PSD-95 on calpain cleavage. PSD-95 could regulate the susceptibility of NMDA receptors to calpain-mediated cleavage during synaptic transmission and excitotoxicity.

Postsynaptic density protein-95 regulates NMDA channel gating and surface expression

NMDA receptors (NMDARs) colocalize with postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95), a multivalent synaptic scaffolding protein and core component of the postsynaptic density, at excitatory synapses. Although much is known about the identity and properties of scaffolding proteins, little is known about their actions on NMDAR function. Here we show that association of PSD-95 with NMDARs modulates channel gating and surface expression. PSD-95 increases the number of functional channels at the cell surface and channel opening rate of NMDARs, with little or no change in conductance, reversal potential, or mean open time. We show further that PSD-95 increases NMDAR surface expression by increasing the rate of channel insertion and decreasing the rate of channel internalization. The PDZ (PSD-95, discs large, zona occludens-1) binding motif at the distal end of the NR2 C-terminal tail is critical to the actions of PSD-95 on NMDAR function and surface expression. Given that activity bi-directionally modifies synaptic levels of PSD-95, our findings suggest a novel mechanism for activity-dependent regulation of NMDARs at central synapses.

Electrophysiology and plasticity in isolated postsynaptic densities

The organization and regulation of excitatory synapses in the mammalian CNS entails complex molecular and cellular processes. In the postsynaptic membrane, scaffolding proteins bring together glutamate receptors with multiple regulatory proteins involved in signal transduction. This gives rise to an elaborate postsynaptic structure known as the postsynaptic density (PSD). This protein network plays a critical role in the regulation of glutamate receptor function and thus in synaptic plasticity. To study this regulation, we have developed a system in which ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs) can be recorded, in the steady state, by the patch clamp technique in isolated PSDs incorporated into giant liposomes. In this preparation, ionotropic glutamate receptors maintain their characteristic physiological and pharmacological properties. The recordings reflect the presence of channel clusters, as multiple conductance and subconductance states are observed. Each of the receptor subtypes is activated by a specific set of kinases that are activated differentially by Ca(2+): the "kainate receptor kinases" are active even in the presence of EGTA, i.e. they are not calcium-dependent; the "N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) channel kinases" are active in the presence of submicromolar calcium concentrations, whereas the "alpha-amino-3- hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionate (AMPA) receptor kinases" need microM calcium for activation. The NMDA receptor showed its characteristic voltage-dependent Mg(2+) blockade, and activation by phosphorylation was in part a consequence of a relief of Mg(2+) blockade. These results allow us to propose a model in which phosphorylation of NMDA receptors can contribute to a long-lasting and self-maintained change in synaptic function. The experimental approach we present will allow us to test the functional consequence of activation of the multiple signal transduction pathways thought to regulate excitatory neurotransmission in the adult CNS.

Neonatal Toluene Exposure Alters Agonist and Antagonist Sensitivity and NR2B Subunit Expression of NMDA Receptors in Cultured Cerebellar Granule Neurons

Toluene has been reported to antagonize the function of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. In this study, the effects of neonatal toluene exposure on NMDA receptors in primarily cultured cerebellar granule neurons were examined. Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with toluene (0, 200, 500, and 1000 mg/kg, i.p.) from postnatal day (PN) 4 to PN 7. Under toluene-free conditions, Ca2+ signals of cultured neurons in response to glutamate and NMDA were measured for up to 14 days. The expression of NMDA receptor subunits (NR1, NR2A, and NR2B) at 5-14 days in vitro (DIV) were also determined. Neonatal toluene exposure dose-dependently reduced intracellular Ca2+ signals in response to glutamate/glycine and NMDA/glycine in cultured cerebellar granule neurons, and these effects were gradually decreased with time. Such toluene exposure did not influence the inhibition of Mg2+ or MK801 on NMDA-evoked responses, but it decreased the potency of ifenprodil (an NR2B preferring antagonist). The protein levels of NMDA receptor subunit NR2B were consistently reduced by toluene exposure at 5 DIV, but not at 14 DIV. These results demonstrate that neonatal toluene exposure induces long-term but reversible changes in the function and composition of NMDA receptors. Such changes during developmental stages may contribute to the cerebellar dysfunction observed in fetal solvent syndrome.

Protein kinase CK2 in postsynaptic densities: phosphorylation of PSD-95/SAP90 and NMDA receptor regulation

Protein kinase CK2 (CK2) is highly expressed in rat forebrain where its function is not well understood. Subcellular distribution studies showed that the catalytic subunit of CK2 (CK2alpha) was enriched in postsynaptic densities (PSDs) by 68%. We studied the putative role of CK2 activity on N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) function using isolated, patch-clamped PSDs in the presence of 2 mM extracellular Mg(2+). The usual activation by phosphorylation of the NMDARs in the presence of ATP was inhibited by the selective CK2 inhibitor 5,6-dichloro-1-beta-ribofuranosyl benzimidazole (DRB). This inhibition was voltage-dependent, i.e., 100% at positive membrane potentials, while at negative potentials, inhibition was incomplete. Endogenous CK2 substrates were characterized by their ability to use GTP as a phosphoryl donor and susceptibility to inhibition by DRB. Immunoprecipitation assays and 2D gels indicated that PSD-95/SAP90, the NMDAR scaffolding protein, was a CK2 substrate, while the NR2A/B and NR1 NMDAR subunits were not. These results suggest that postsynaptic NMDAR regulation by CK2 is mediated by indirect mechanisms possibly involving PSD-95/SAP90.

PSD-95 promotes CaMKII-catalyzed serine phosphorylation of the synaptic RAS-GTPase activating protein SynGAP after transient brain ischemia in rat hippocampus

Recent studies have indicated that cerebral ischemia induces rapid serine phosphorylation of synaptic RAS-GTPase activating protein (SynGAP) by calcium/Camodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) in rat hippocampus. To further illustrate the mechanisms underlying these processes, we examined the effects of transient (15 min) brain ischemia followed by reperfusion (0, 30 min, 6 h, 1, 3 days) on serine phosphorylation of SynGAP and interactions involving SynGAP, postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) and CaMKII in rat hippocampus. Transient brain ischemia was induced by the method of four-vessel occlusion in Sprague-Dawley rats. Serine phosphorylation of SynGAP increased immediately after brain ischemia and peaked at 30-min reperfusion, and the increase was maintained for 3 days. The association among SynGAP, PSD95 and CaMKII had a similar trend as serine phosphorylation of SynGAP. Intracrebroventricular infusion of PSD95 antisense oligodeoxynucleotide not only markedly decreased the protein levels of PSD95 but also attenuated the elevated serine phosphorylation of SynGAP and the associations among SynGAP, PSD95 and CaMKII induced by 30-min reperfusion following 15-min brain ischemia. The results suggest that the serine phosphorylation of SynGAP catalyzed by CaMKII is immediately increased and that PSD95 is critical for promoting SynGAP serine phosphorylation after transient brain ischemia.

Increased numbers of coassembled PSD-95 to NMDA-receptor subunits NR2B and NR1 in human epileptic cortical dysplasia

PURPOSE

Glutamatergic transmission between neurons occurs at chemical synapses. The N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA)-receptor subclass of ionotropic glutamate receptors has been implicated in the epileptogenic mechanisms in human cortical dysplasia (CD). NMDA receptors are clustered at the postsynaptic membrane by anchoring to the postsynaptic density protein PSD-95, a putative ion channel-clustering protein. In this study, we quantitatively investigated the coassembly of PSD-95 to NR2B and NR1 in human epileptogenic cortex as compared with nonepileptic cortex.

METHODS

We used coimmunoprecipitation and immunoblotting techniques to quantify and compare the numbers of coassembled PSD-95 with NR2B, PSD-95 with NR1, and NR2B with NR1 in the membrane proteins of brain tissues resected from four patients (aged 3.5, 6, 14, and 18 years) with medically intractable neocortical epilepsy associated with CD. The resected cortical tissues were grouped into epileptic and nonepileptic, as determined by prolonged subdural electrode recordings in three patients and direct intraoperative electrocorticographic recording in one patient.

RESULTS

In all patients, the amounts of immunoprecipitated complexes, which reflect the numbers of coassembled PSD-95 proteins to NR2B subunits, were increased in epileptic cortex as compared with nonepileptic cortex.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that increased coassembly of NR2B and NR1 with PSD-95 may underlie one of the cellular mechanisms that contribute to the in situ increased hyperexcitability, leading to seizure generation in focal CD.

Differential modulation of NR1-NR2A and NR1-NR2B subtypes of NMDA receptor by PDZ domain-containing proteins

The PSD-95/Dlg/ZO-1 (PDZ) domain-containing proteins MALS and PSD-95 localize to post-synaptic densities and bind the COOH-termini of NR2 subunits of the NMDA receptor. The effects of MALS-2 and PSD-95 on the channel activity of NMDA receptors were compared using the Xenopus oocyte expression system. Both MALS-2 and PSD-95 increased the current response of the NR1-NR2B receptor to l-glutamate. In contrast, the current response of the NR1-NR2A receptor was increased by PSD-95 but not by MALS-2. MALS-2 had no effect either on the potentiation of NR1-NR2A or NR1-NR2B channel activity by protein kinase C, or on Src-mediated potentiation of NR1-NR2A activity, whereas PSD-95 almost completely inhibited the effects of these protein kinases. Construction of chimeras of MALS-2 and PSD-95 revealed that the first two PDZ domains and two NH(2)-terminal cysteine residues are essential for the inhibitory effects of PSD-95 on protein kinase C-mediated potentiation of NR1-NR2A and NR1-NR2B channel activity, respectively. The second of the three PDZ domains of PSD-95 was required for its inhibition of Src-mediated potentiation of NR1-NR2A activity. These results indicate that the NR1-NR2A and NR1-NR2B receptors are modulated differentially by MALS-2 and PSD-95, and that similar regulatory effects of PSD-95 on these receptors are achieved by distinct mechanisms.

Developmental decrease in NMDA receptor desensitization associated with shift to synapse and interaction with postsynaptic density-95

NMDA receptors (NMDARs) play a crucial role in neuronal development, synaptic plasticity, and excitotoxicity; therefore, regulation of NMDAR function is important in both physiological and pathological conditions. Previous studies indicate that the NMDAR-mediated synaptic current decay rate increases during development because of a switch in receptor subunit composition, contributing to developmental changes in plasticity. To test whether NMDAR desensitization also changes during development, we recorded whole-cell NMDA-evoked currents in cultured rat hippocampal neurons. We found that glycine-independent desensitization of NMDARs decreases during development. This decrease was not dependent on a switch in subunit composition or differential receptor sensitivity to agonist-, Ca2+-, or Zn2+-induced increase in desensitization. Instead, several lines of evidence indicated that the developmental decrease in desensitization was tightly correlated with synaptic localization of the receptor, suggesting that association of NMDARs with proteins selectively expressed at synapses in mature neurons might account for developmental alterations in desensitization. Accordingly, we tested the role of interactions between PSD-95 (postsynaptic density-95) and NMDARs in regulating receptor desensitization. Overexpression of PSD-95 reduced NMDAR desensitization in immature neurons, whereas agents that interfere with synaptic targeting of PSD-95, or induce movement of NMDARs away from synapses and uncouple the receptor from PSD-95, increased NMDAR desensitization in mature neurons. We conclude that synaptic localization and association with PSD-95 increases stability of hippocampal neuronal NMDAR responses to sustained agonist exposure. Our results elucidate an additional mechanism for differentially regulating NMDAR function in neurons of different developmental stages or the response of subpopulations of NMDARs in a single neuron.

Organization of postsynaptic density proteins and glutamate receptors in axodendritic and dendrodendritic synapses of the rat olfactory bulb

Glutamate neurotransmission in the olfactory bulb involves both axodendritic synapses and dendrodendritic reciprocal synapses and possibly also extrasynaptic receptors. By using a sensitive immunogold procedure, we have investigated the organization of two synaptic scaffolding molecules, PSD-95 and PSD-93, as well as N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) and alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-proprionic acid (AMPA) receptors, at these heterogeneous glutamate signaling sites. Immunolabeling for PSD-95 and PSD-93 was present in all major types of putative glutamatergic synapse, suggesting that these proteins are essential components of the synaptic signaling apparatus. The linear density and the subsynaptic distribution of PSD-95/PSD-93 gold particles did not differ significantly between axodendritic and dendrodendritic synapses. Antibodies recognizing NMDA and AMPA receptor subunits also labeled asymmetric synapses throughout the olfactory bulb. Immunolabeling for the AMPA receptor subunits GluR2/3 was similar in all types of synapse. In contrast, immunogold signals for the NR1 subunit of NMDA receptors varied significantly among different synapse populations, with olfactory nerve synapses in the glomerular layer showing the lowest labeling intensity. Although the lateral dendrites of mitral and tufted cells have been reported to respond to glutamate, they did not display significant plasma membrane labeling for the NR1 subunit or for PSD-95, suggesting that the physiological effects of glutamate at these sites are mediated by NMDA autoreceptors that are not clustered and occur only at a low density on the dendritic surface. Our quantitative analysis of olfactory bulb synapses indicates that the density of NMDA receptors is not determined by the complement of PSD-95/PSD-93. The latter molecules appear to be expressed in an all-or-none fashion and may form a standard lattice common to different types of glutamatergic synapse.

Protein phosphorylation networks in motor neuron death

The disorder amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by the death of specific groups of neurons, especially motor neurons, which innervate skeletal muscle, and neurons connecting the cerebral cortex with motor neurons, such as corticospinal tract neurons. There have been numerous attempts to elucidate why there is selective involvement of motor neurons in ALS. Recent observations have demonstrated altered activities and protein levels of diverse kinases in the brain and spinal cord of transgenic mice that overexpress a mutant superoxide dismutase (mSOD) gene that is found in patients with the familial form of ALS, as well as in patients who have died with ALS. These results suggest that the alteration of protein phosphorylation may be involved in the pathogenesis of ALS. The changes in protein kinase and phosphatase expression and activity can affect the activation of important neuronal neurotransmitter receptors such as NMDA receptors or other signaling proteins and can trigger, or modify, the process producing neuronal loss in ALS. These various kinases, phosphatases and signaling proteins are involved in many signaling pathways; however, they have close interactions with each other. Therefore, an understanding of the role of protein kinases and protein phosphatases and the molecular organization of protein phosphorylation networks are useful to determine the mechanisms of selective motor neuron death.

NMDA-receptor trafficking and targeting: implications for synaptic transmission and plasticity

Dynamic regulation of synaptic efficacy is thought to play a crucial role in formation of neuronal connections and in experience-dependent modification of neural circuitry. The molecular and cellular mechanisms by which synaptic changes are triggered and expressed are the focus of intense interest. This articles reviews recent evidence that NMDA receptors undergo dynamically regulated targeting and trafficking, and that the physical transport of NMDA receptors in and out of the synaptic membrane contributes to several forms of long-lasting synaptic plasticity. The identification of targeting and internalization sequences in NMDA-receptor subunits has begun the unraveling of some mechanisms that underlie activity-dependent redistribution of NMDA receptors. Given that NMDA receptors are widely expressed throughout the CNS, regulation of NMDA-receptor trafficking provides a potentially important way to modulate efficacy of synaptic transmission.

Further characterization of the molecular interaction between PSD-95 and NMDA receptors: the effect of the NR1 splice variant and evidence for modulation of channel gating

Coexpression of PSD-95(c-Myc) with NR1-1a/NR2A NMDA receptors in human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells resulted in a decrease in efficacy for the glycine stimulation of [3 H]MK801 binding similar to that previously described for l-glutamate. The inhibition constants (K (I) s) for the binding of l-glutamate and glycine to NR1-1a/NR2A determined by [3 H]CGP 39653 and [3 H]MDL 105 519 displacement assays, respectively, were not significantly different between NR1-1a/NR2A receptors coexpressed +/- PSD-95(c-Myc). The increased EC(50) for l-glutamate enhancement of [3 H]MK801 binding was also found for NR1-2a/NR2A and NR1-4b/NRA receptors thus the altered EC(50) is not dependent on the N1, C1 or C2 exon of the NR1 subunit. The NR1-4b but not the NR1-1a subunit was expressed efficiently at the cell surface in the absence of NR2 subunits. Total NR1-4b and NR1-4b/NR2A expression was enhanced by PSD-95(c-Myc) but whole cell enzyme-linked immunoadsorbent assays (ELISAs) showed that this increase was not due to increased expression at the cell surface. It is suggested that PSD-95(c-Myc) has a dual effect on NMDA receptors expressed in mammalian cells, a reduction in channel gating and an enhanced expression of NMDA receptor subunits containing C-terminal E(T/S)XV PSD-95 binding motifs.

PSD-95 eliminates Src-induced potentiation of NR1/NR2A-subtype NMDA receptor channels and reduces high-affinity zinc inhibition

The channel activity of NMDA receptors is regulated by phosphorylation by protein kinases and by interaction with other proteins. Recombinant NR1/NR2A subtype NMDA receptor channels are potentiated by the protein tyrosine kinase Src, an effect which is mediated by a reduction in the high-affinity, voltage-independent Zn(2+) inhibition. However, it has been reported that Src-induced potentiation of NMDA receptor currents in hippocampus neurons is not mediated by a reduction in Zn(2+) inhibition. The post-synaptic density protein PSD-95 interacts with the C-terminus of NR2 subunits of the NMDA receptor. Here we demonstrate that PSD-95 eliminates the Src-induced potentiation of NR1/NR2A channels expressed in oocytes and reduces the sensitivity of the channels to Zn(2+). Our results reveal that the absence of Src-induced potentiation of PSD-95-coupled NR1/NR2A channels is not to due to the reduced sensitivity of these channels to Zn(2+). These results indicate that PSD-95 functionally modulates NR1/NR2A channels and explain why Src-induced potentiation of NMDA receptor currents in hippocampus neurons is not mediated by a reduction in Zn(2+) inhibition.

Reconstitution of the cytoplasmic interaction between phospholamban and Ca(2+)-ATPase of cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum

Phospholamban (PLN) reversibly inhibits the Ca(2+)-ATPase of cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum (SERCA2a) through a direct protein-protein interaction, playing a pivotal role in the regulation of intracellular Ca(2+) in heart muscle cells. The interaction between PLN and SERCA2a occurs at multiple sites within the cytoplasmic and membrane domains. Here, we have reconstituted the cytoplasmic protein-protein interaction using bacterially expressed fusion proteins of the cytoplasmic domain of PLN and the long cytoplasmic loop of SERCA2a. We have developed two methods to evaluate the binding of the fusion proteins, one with glutathione-Sepharose beads and the other with a 96-well plate. Essentially the same results were obtained by the two methods. The affinity of the binding (K(D)) was 0.70 microM. The association was inhibited by cAMP-dependent phosphorylation of the PLN fusion protein and by usage of anti-PLN monoclonal antibody. It was also diminished by substitution at the phosphorylation site of PLN of Ser(16) to Asp. These results suggest that PLN can bind SERCA2a in the absence of the membrane domains and that the modifications of the cytoplasmic domain of PLN that activate SERCA2a parallel the disruption of the association between the two fusion proteins. It has been shown that the removal of PLN inhibition of SERCA2a rescues cardiac function and morphology in the mouse dilated cardiomyopathy model. Our assay system can be applied to the screening of novel inotropic agents that remove the inhibition of SERCA2a by PLN, improving the relaxation as well as the contractility of the failing heart.

Alteration in the voltage dependence of NMDA receptor channels in rat dorsal horn neurones following peripheral inflammation

1. It has been proposed that the activation of NMDA receptors and upregulation of protein kinase C (PKC) underlie the exaggerated and persistent pain experienced in the inflammatory state. However, there is no direct evidence to show that inflammation alters the function of NMDA receptors. 2. We examined the voltage-dependent properties of NMDA receptor channels in rat dorsal horn neurones that receive sensory inputs from an inflamed hindpaw. 3. Peripheral inflammation was induced by injections of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). Membrane currents were measured using the perforated patch-clamp technique. 4. After CFA treatment, the current-voltage relationship of NMDA receptor channels was shifted in the hyperpolarized direction. This resulted in enhanced NMDA responses at negative potentials. 5. The change was mediated by PKC because the voltage shift was blocked by the selective PKC inhibitors chelerythrine and bisindolylmaleimide I. 6. Furthermore, the Mg(2+) blockade of NMDA receptors was reduced. This reduction could account for the shift in the voltage dependence of NMDA receptor channels. 7. These results indicate that NMDA receptor channel characteristics in the dorsal horn are altered by inflammation, and that the changes observed could contribute to the hyperalgesia and allodynia associated with tissue injury.

PSD95 protein level rises in murine somatosensory cortex after sensory training

Proteins of the postsynaptic density are implicated in mechanisms of synaptic plasticity. We examined involvement of PSD95 and alphaCaMkII in learning-dependent plastic changes of representational maps in somatosensory cortex of mice. The barrel cortex of mice was examined following a 3 day long classical conditioning training, in which activation of facial vibrissae was linked to an aversive stimulus. This procedure produced expansion of cortical representations of vibrissae involved in the training. In subcellular fraction enriched in postsynaptic densities from the barrel cortex, it was estimated by Western blotting that the level of PSD95 increased after the training by about 50%, while the level of CaMkII remained unchanged. The results indicate involvement of PSD95 in learning-dependent cortical plasticity.

A region of the rat N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor 2A subunit that is sufficient for potentiation by phorbol esters

N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are modulated by protein kinase C (PKC) in vivo and in heterologous expression systems. In heterologous expression systems, PKC-mediated modulation is subunit specific with NR2A-containing receptors being potentiated by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), while NR2C-containing receptors are inhibited or unaffected. In the present study we have produced chimeric receptors containing NR2A and NR2C to define the components of NR2A which are sufficient for potentiation by PMA. Amino acids 1105-1400 of NR2A placed onto the C-terminus of NR2C at amino acid 1102 was the minimum region sufficient for producing a PMA-stimulated receptor. This suggests that this region contains structural determinants for PKC-mediated potentiation of NR2A receptors.

Molecular mechanisms of glutamate receptor-mediated excitotoxic neuronal cell death

Excitotoxicity is one of the most extensively studied processes of neuronal cell death, and plays an important role in many central nervous system (CNS) diseases, including CNS ischemia, trauma, and neurodegenerative disorders. First described by Olney, excitotoxicity was later characterized as an excessive synaptic release of glutamate, which in turn activates postsynaptic glutamate receptors. While almost every glutamate receptor subtype has been implicated in mediating excitotoxic cell death, it is generally accepted that the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) subtypes play a major role, mainly owing to their high calcium (Ca2+) permeability. However, other glutamate receptor subtypes such as 2-amino-3-(3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazol-4-yl) propionate (AMPA) or kainate receptors have also been attributed a critical role in mediating excitotoxic neuronal cell death. Although the molecular basis of glutamate toxicity is uncertain, there is general agreement that it is in large part Ca(2+)-dependent. The present review is aimed at summarizing the molecular mechanisms of NMDA receptor and AMPA/kainate receptor-mediated excitotoxic neuronal cell death.

Kainate-induced seizures alter protein composition and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor function of rat forebrain postsynaptic densities

The postsynaptic density is a highly dynamic structure, which is reorganized in an activity-dependent manner. An animal model for temporal lobe epilepsy, i.e. kainate-induced limbic seizures in rats, was used to study changes in postsynaptic density composition after extensive synaptic activity. Six hours after kainate injection, the protein content of the postsynaptic density fractions from rats that developed strong seizures was increased three-fold compared to saline-treated controls. Immunoblot analysis revealed that the relative amounts of metabotropic glutamate receptor 1alpha, N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive fusion protein, protein kinases C, Fyn and TrkB, as well as the neuronal nitric oxide synthase, were significantly higher in seizure-developing than in control rats. In contrast, the relative contents of the kainate receptor KA2 subunit, beta-actin, alpha-adducin and the membrane-associated guanylate kinase homolog SAP90/PSD-95 were decreased. The relative amounts of additional postsynaptic density proteins, including alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionate and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor subunits, calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase type II, casein kinase 2, tubulin, microtubule-associated protein 2B, the membrane-associated guanylate kinase homolog SAP102, and proline-rich synapse-associated protein 1/cortactin binding protein 1/Shank2 remained essentially unchanged. To assess possible changes in postsynaptic performance, postsynaptic densities were isolated from control and epileptic rats, incorporated into giant liposomes and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor currents were recorded. A significant reduction in the mean conductance was observed in patches containing postsynaptic densities from animals with high seizure activity. This was due to the presence of reduced conductance levels in each membrane patch compared to control postsynaptic density preparations. From these data, we suggest that intense synaptic activity associated with seizures modifies the composition of postsynaptic densities and has profound consequences on the function of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors present in them. This rearrangement may accompany impairment of synaptic plasticity.

Evidence for direct protein kinase-C mediated modulation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor current

Protein kinase-C (PKC) activation differentially affects currents from N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) type glutamate receptors depending upon their subunit composition. Experiments using chimeras initially indicated that the cytoplasmic C-terminal tails of NR2B (responsive to PKC) and NR2C (unresponsive to PKC) subunits contain the amino acid residues responsible for the observed disparity of PKC effects. However, truncation and point mutation experiments have suggested that PKC action on NMDA receptors may be entirely indirect, working via the phosphorylation of associated proteins. Here we suggest that PKC does, in fact, affect NR2B/NR1-011 NMDA currents by direct phosphorylation of the NR2B tail at residues S1303 and S1323. Replacement of either of these residues with Ala severely reduces PKC potentiation. To verify that S1303 and S1323 are sites of direct phosphorylation by PKC, synthetic peptides from the regions surrounding these sites were used as substrates for in vitro assays with purified rat brain PKC. These results indicate that PKC can directly phosphorylate S1303 and S1323 in the NR2B C terminus, leading to enhanced currents through NMDA receptor channels. The direct action of PKC on certain NMDA receptor subtypes may be important in any physiological or pathological process where PKC and NR2B/NR1 receptors interact.

Hippocampal synaptic plasticity involves competition between Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II and postsynaptic density 95 for binding to the NR2A subunit of the NMDA receptor

NMDA receptor, Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (alphaCaMKII), and postsynaptic density 95 (PSD-95) are three major components of the PSD fraction. Both alphaCaMKII and PSD-95 have been shown previously to bind NR2 subunits of the NMDA receptor complex. The nature and mechanisms of targeting to the NMDA receptor subunits are, however, not completely understood. Here we report that the C-terminal NR2A(S1389-V1464) sequence was sufficient to guarantee the association of both native and recombinant alphaCaMKII and PSD-95. PSD-95(54-256) was able to compete with the binding of both native and recombinant alphaCaMKII to the NR2A C-tail. Accordingly, alphaCaMKII(1-325) competes with both the native PSD-95 and the native kinase itself for the binding to NR2A. In addition, Ser/Ala1289 and Ser/Asp1289 point mutations on the unique CaMKII phosphosite of NR2A did not significantly influence the binding of native alphaCaMKII and PSD-95 to the NR2A C-tail. Finally, the association-dissociation of alphaCaMKII and PSD-95 to and from the NR2A C-tail was significantly modulated by activation of NMDA receptor achieved by either pharmacological tools or long-term potentiation induction, underlining the importance of dynamic and reciprocal interactions of NMDA receptor, alphaCaMKII, and PSD-95 in hippocampal synaptic plasticity.