Inhibition of the cAMP pathway decreases early long-term potentiation at CA1 hippocampal synapses

Presynaptic structural and functional plasticity are coupled by convergent Rap1 signaling

Dynamic presynaptic actin remodeling drives structural and functional plasticity at synapses, but the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Previous work has shown that actin regulation via Rac1 guanine exchange factor (GEF) Vav signaling restrains synaptic growth via bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-induced receptor macropinocytosis and mediates synaptic potentiation via mobilization of reserve pool vesicles in presynaptic boutons. Here, we find that Gef26/PDZ-GEF and small GTPase Rap1 signaling couples the BMP-induced activation of Abelson kinase to this Vav-mediated macropinocytosis. Moreover, we find that adenylate cyclase Rutabaga (Rut) signaling via exchange protein activated by cAMP (Epac) drives the mobilization of reserve pool vesicles during post-tetanic potentiation (PTP). We discover that Rap1 couples activation of Rut-cAMP-Epac signaling to Vav-mediated synaptic potentiation. These findings indicate that Rap1 acts as an essential, convergent node for Abelson kinase and cAMP signaling to mediate BMP-induced structural plasticity and activity-induced functional plasticity via Vav-dependent regulation of the presynaptic actin cytoskeleton.

The temporal pattern of synaptic activation determines the longevity of structural plasticity at dendritic spines

Learning is thought to involve physiological and structural changes at individual synapses. Synaptic plasticity has predominantly been studied using regular stimulation patterns, but neuronal activity in the brain normally follows a Poisson distribution. We used two-photon imaging and glutamate uncaging to investigate the structural plasticity of single dendritic spines using naturalistic activation patterns sampled from a Poisson distribution. We showed that naturalistic activation patterns elicit structural plasticity that is both NMDAR and protein synthesis-dependent. Furthermore, we uncovered that the longevity of structural plasticity is dependent on the temporal structure of the naturalistic pattern. Finally, we found that during the delivery of the naturalistic activity, spines underwent rapid structural growth that predicted the longevity of plasticity. This was not observed with regularly spaced activity. These data reveal that different temporal organizations of the same number of synaptic stimulations can produce rather distinct short and long-lasting structural plasticity.

Inhibition of cyclooxygenase and EP3 receptor improved long term potentiation in a rat organotypic hippocampal model of repeated blast traumatic brain injury

Blast-induced traumatic brain injury (bTBI) is a health concern in military service members who are exposed to multiple blasts throughout their training and deployment. Our group has previously reported decreased long term potentiation (LTP) following repeated bTBI in a rat organotypic hippocampal slice culture (OHSC) model. In this study, we investigated changes in inflammatory markers like cyclooxygenase (COX) and tested the efficacy of COX or prostaglandin EP3 receptor (EP3R) inhibitors in attenuating LTP deficits. Expression of COX-2 was increased 48 h following repeated injury, whereas COX-1 expression was unchanged. EP3R expression was upregulated, and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) concentration was decreased after repeated blast exposure. Post-traumatic LTP deficits improved after treatment with a COX-1 specific inhibitor, SC-560, a COX-2 specific inhibitor, rofecoxib, a pan-COX inhibitor, ibuprofen, or an EP3R inhibitor, L-798,106. Delayed treatment with ibuprofen and L-798,106 also prevented LTP deficits. These findings suggest that bTBI induced neuroinflammation may be responsible for some functional deficits that we have observed in injured OHSCs. Additionally, COX and EP3R inhibition may be viable therapeutic strategies to reduce neurophysiological deficits after repeated bTBI.

Targeting NMDA receptor signaling for therapeutic intervention in brain disorders

N-Methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor hyperfunction plays a key role in the pathological processes of depression and neurodegenerative diseases, whereas NMDA receptor hypofunction is implicated in schizophrenia. Considerable efforts have been made to target NMDA receptor function for the therapeutic intervention in those brain disorders. In this mini-review, we first discuss ion flux-dependent NMDA receptor signaling and ion flux-independent NMDA receptor signaling that result from structural rearrangement upon binding of endogenous agonists. Then, we review current strategies for exploring druggable targets of the NMDA receptor signaling and promising future directions, which are poised to result in new therapeutic agents for several brain disorders.

Mice Lacking the cAMP Effector Protein POPDC1 Show Enhanced Hippocampal Synaptic Plasticity

Extensive research has uncovered diverse forms of synaptic plasticity and an array of molecular signaling mechanisms that act as positive or negative regulators. Specifically, cyclic 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-dependent signaling pathways are crucially implicated in long-lasting synaptic plasticity. In this study, we examine the role of Popeye domain-containing protein 1 (POPDC1) (or blood vessel epicardial substance (BVES)), a cAMP effector protein, in modulating hippocampal synaptic plasticity. Unlike other cAMP effectors, such as protein kinase A (PKA) and exchange factor directly activated by cAMP, POPDC1 is membrane-bound and the sequence of the cAMP-binding cassette differs from canonical cAMP-binding domains, suggesting that POPDC1 may have an unique role in cAMP-mediated signaling. Our results show that Popdc1 is widely expressed in various brain regions including the hippocampus. Acute hippocampal slices from Popdc1 knockout (KO) mice exhibit PKA-dependent enhancement in CA1 long-term potentiation (LTP) in response to weaker stimulation paradigms, which in slices from wild-type mice induce only transient LTP. Loss of POPDC1, while not affecting basal transmission or input-specificity of LTP, results in altered response during high-frequency stimulation. Popdc1 KO mice also show enhanced forskolin-induced potentiation. Overall, these findings reveal POPDC1 as a novel negative regulator of hippocampal synaptic plasticity and, together with recent evidence for its interaction with phosphodiesterases (PDEs), suggest that POPDC1 is involved in modulating activity-dependent local cAMP-PKA-PDE signaling.

Structure, Function, and Pharmacology of Glutamate Receptor Ion Channels

Many physiologic effects of l-glutamate, the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system, are mediated via signaling by ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs). These ligand-gated ion channels are critical to brain function and are centrally implicated in numerous psychiatric and neurologic disorders. There are different classes of iGluRs with a variety of receptor subtypes in each class that play distinct roles in neuronal functions. The diversity in iGluR subtypes, with their unique functional properties and physiologic roles, has motivated a large number of studies. Our understanding of receptor subtypes has advanced considerably since the first iGluR subunit gene was cloned in 1989, and the research focus has expanded to encompass facets of biology that have been recently discovered and to exploit experimental paradigms made possible by technological advances. Here, we review insights from more than 3 decades of iGluR studies with an emphasis on the progress that has occurred in the past decade. We cover structure, function, pharmacology, roles in neurophysiology, and therapeutic implications for all classes of receptors assembled from the subunits encoded by the 18 ionotropic glutamate receptor genes. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Glutamate receptors play important roles in virtually all aspects of brain function and are either involved in mediating some clinical features of neurological disease or represent a therapeutic target for treatment. Therefore, understanding the structure, function, and pharmacology of this class of receptors will advance our understanding of many aspects of brain function at molecular, cellular, and system levels and provide new opportunities to treat patients.

Calcium-Permeable AMPA Receptors Mediate Timing-Dependent LTP Elicited by Low Repeat Coincident Pre- and Postsynaptic Activity at Schaffer Collateral-CA1 Synapses

High-frequency stimulation induced long-term potentiation (LTP) and low-frequency stimulation induced LTD are considered as cellular models of memory formation. Interestingly, spike timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) can induce equally robust timing-dependent LTP (t-LTP) and t-LTD in response to low frequency repeats of coincident action potential (AP) firing in presynaptic and postsynaptic cells. Commonly, STDP paradigms relying on 25-100 repeats of coincident AP firing are used to elicit t-LTP or t-LTD, but the minimum number of repeats required for successful STDP is barely explored. However, systematic investigation of physiologically relevant low repeat STDP paradigms is of utmost importance to explain learning mechanisms in vivo. Here, we examined low repeat STDP at Schaffer collateral-CA1 synapses by pairing one presynaptic AP with either one postsynaptic AP (1:1 t-LTP), or a burst of 4 APs (1:4 t-LTP) and found 3-6 repeats to be sufficient to elicit t-LTP. 6× 1:1 t-LTP required postsynaptic Ca2+ influx via NMDARs and L-type VGCCs and was mediated by increased presynaptic glutamate release. In contrast, 1:4 t-LTP depended on postsynaptic metabotropic GluRs and ryanodine receptor signaling and was mediated by postsynaptic insertion of AMPA receptors. Unexpectedly, both 6× t-LTP variants were strictly dependent on activation of postsynaptic Ca2+-permeable AMPARs but were differentially regulated by dopamine receptor signaling. Our data show that synaptic changes induced by only 3-6 repeats of mild STDP stimulation occurring in ≤10 s can take place on time scales observed also during single trial learning.

Multiple signaling pathways are essential for synapse formation induced by synaptic adhesion molecules

Little is known about the cellular signals that organize synapse formation. To explore what signaling pathways may be involved, we employed heterologous synapse formation assays in which a synaptic adhesion molecule expressed in a nonneuronal cell induces pre- or postsynaptic specializations in cocultured neurons. We found that interfering pharmacologically with microtubules or actin filaments impaired heterologous synapse formation, whereas blocking protein synthesis had no effect. Unexpectedly, pharmacological inhibition of c-jun N-terminal kinases (JNKs), protein kinase-A (PKA), or AKT kinases also suppressed heterologous synapse formation, while inhibition of other tested signaling pathways-such as MAP kinases or protein kinase C-did not alter heterologous synapse formation. JNK and PKA inhibitors suppressed formation of both pre- and postsynaptic specializations, whereas AKT inhibitors impaired formation of post- but not presynaptic specializations. To independently test whether heterologous synapse formation depends on AKT signaling, we targeted PTEN, an enzyme that hydrolyzes phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate and thereby prevents AKT kinase activation, to postsynaptic sites by fusing PTEN to Homer1. Targeting PTEN to postsynaptic specializations impaired heterologous postsynaptic synapse formation induced by presynaptic adhesion molecules, such as neurexins and additionally decreased excitatory synapse function in cultured neurons. Taken together, our results suggest that heterologous synapse formation is driven via a multifaceted and multistage kinase network, with diverse signals organizing pre- and postsynaptic specializations.

Neuropharmacological Effects of Mesaconitine: Evidence from Molecular and Cellular Basis of Neural Circuit

Mesaconitine (MA), a diester-diterpenoid alkaloid in aconite roots, is considered to be one of the most important bioactive ingredients. In this review, we summarized its neuropharmacological effects, including analgesic effects and antiepileptiform effects. Mesaconitine can act on the central noradrenergic system and the serotonin system; behaving like the norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants that increase norepinephrine levels in stress-induced depression. Therefore, the possible perspectives for future studies on the depression of MA were also discussed as well. The pharmacological effect of MA on depression is worthy of further study.

Optogenetic Manipulation of Postsynaptic cAMP Using a Novel Transgenic Mouse Line Enables Synaptic Plasticity and Enhances Depolarization Following Tetanic Stimulation in the Hippocampal Dentate Gyrus

cAMP is a positive regulator tightly involved in certain types of synaptic plasticity and related memory functions. However, its spatiotemporal roles at the synaptic and neural circuit levels remain elusive. Using a combination of a cAMP optogenetics approach and voltage-sensitive dye (VSD) imaging with electrophysiological recording, we define a novel capacity of postsynaptic cAMP in enabling dentate gyrus long-term potentiation (LTP) and depolarization in acutely prepared murine hippocampal slices. To manipulate cAMP levels at medial perforant path to granule neuron (MPP-DG) synapses by light, we generated transgenic (Tg) mice expressing photoactivatable adenylyl cyclase (PAC) in DG granule neurons. Using these Tg(CMV-Camk2a-RFP/bPAC)3Koka mice, we recorded field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) from MPP-DG synapses and found that photoactivation of PAC during tetanic stimulation enabled synaptic potentiation that persisted for at least 30 min. This form of LTP was induced without the need for GABA receptor blockade that is typically required for inducing DG plasticity. The paired-pulse ratio (PPR) remained unchanged, indicating the cAMP-dependent LTP was likely postsynaptic. By employing fast fluorescent voltage-sensitive dye (VSD: di-4-ANEPPS) and fluorescence imaging, we found that photoactivation of the PAC actuator enhanced the intensity and extent of dentate gyrus depolarization triggered following tetanic stimulation. These results demonstrate that the elevation of cAMP in granule neurons is capable of rapidly enhancing synaptic strength and neuronal depolarization. The powerful actions of cAMP are consistent with this second messenger having a critical role in the regulation of synaptic function.

The Antagonism of 5-HT6 Receptor Attenuates Current-Induced Spikes and Improves Long-Term Potentiation via the Regulation of M-Currents in a Pilocarpine-Induced Epilepsy Model

Recent studies have documented that reduced M-current promotes epileptogenesis and attenuates synaptic remodeling. Neurite growth is closely related to the level of 5-HT6 receptor (5-HT6R) in the central nervous system. However, little research is available regarding the relation between 5-HT6R and M-current and the role of 5-HT6R in M-current regulation. Herein, we found that the expression of 5-HT6R was notably increased and the expression of KNCQ2/3, the main components of the M channel, was decreased in a time-dependent manner in pilocarpine-induced chronic epileptic hippocampus. Interestingly, antagonism of 5-HT6R by SB271046 upregulated the expression of KCNQ2 but not KCNQ3. SB271046 greatly alleviated excitatory/inhibitory imbalance and improved the impaired LTP in the chronic epileptic hippocampus. Further mechanism exploration revealed that the above effects of SB271046 can be reversed by the M-channel inhibitor XE991, which also confirmed that SB271046 can indeed improve abnormal M current. These data indicate that the antagonism of 5-HT6R may decrease the excitability of hippocampal pyramidal neurons in chronic epileptic rats and improve the impaired long-term potentiation by upregulating the expression of KCNQ2 in the M-channel.

Role of cyclic nucleotides and their downstream signaling cascades in memory function: Being at the right time at the right spot

A plethora of studies indicate the important role of cAMP and cGMP cascades in neuronal plasticity and memory function. As a result, altered cyclic nucleotide signaling has been implicated in the pathophysiology of mnemonic dysfunction encountered in several diseases. In the present review we provide a wide overview of studies regarding the involvement of cyclic nucleotides, as well as their upstream and downstream molecules, in physiological and pathological mnemonic processes. Next, we discuss the regulation of the intracellular concentration of cyclic nucleotides via phosphodiesterases, the enzymes that degrade cAMP and/or cGMP, and via A-kinase-anchoring proteins that refine signal compartmentalization of cAMP signaling. We also provide an overview of the available data pointing to the existence of specific time windows in cyclic nucleotide signaling during neuroplasticity and memory formation and the significance to target these specific time phases for improving memory formation. Finally, we highlight the importance of emerging imaging tools like Förster resonance energy transfer imaging and optogenetics in detecting, measuring and manipulating the action of cyclic nucleotide signaling cascades.

Degeneracy in hippocampal physiology and plasticity

Degeneracy, defined as the ability of structurally disparate elements to perform analogous function, has largely been assessed from the perspective of maintaining robustness of physiology or plasticity. How does the framework of degeneracy assimilate into an encoding system where the ability to change is an essential ingredient for storing new incoming information? Could degeneracy maintain the balance between the apparently contradictory goals of the need to change for encoding and the need to resist change towards maintaining homeostasis? In this review, we explore these fundamental questions with the mammalian hippocampus as an example encoding system. We systematically catalog lines of evidence, spanning multiple scales of analysis that point to the expression of degeneracy in hippocampal physiology and plasticity. We assess the potential of degeneracy as a framework to achieve the conjoint goals of encoding and homeostasis without cross-interferences. We postulate that biological complexity, involving interactions among the numerous parameters spanning different scales of analysis, could establish disparate routes towards accomplishing these conjoint goals. These disparate routes then provide several degrees of freedom to the encoding-homeostasis system in accomplishing its tasks in an input- and state-dependent manner. Finally, the expression of degeneracy spanning multiple scales offers an ideal reconciliation to several outstanding controversies, through the recognition that the seemingly contradictory disparate observations are merely alternate routes that the system might recruit towards accomplishment of its goals.

Fear renewal activates cyclic adenosine monophosphate signaling in the dentate gyrus

BACKGROUND

Fear renewal, the context-specific relapse of a conditioned fear after extinction, is a widely pursued model of post-traumatic stress disorder and phobias. However, its cellular and molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. The dentate gyrus (DG) has emerged as a critical locus of plasticity with relevance to memory, anxiety disorders, and depression, and it contributes to fear memory retrieval. Here, we have identified the role of the DG in fear renewal and its molecular mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Muscimol (MUS), activator of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) forskolin (FSK), inhibitor of protein kinase A (PKA), Rip-cAMP, and a phosphodiesterase inhibitor rolipram were infused into DG of standard deviation rats before renewal testing. cAMP levels after fear renewal was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The protein levels of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) isoforms were tested by western blot. At last, the roles of cAMP signaling were also tested in the acquisition of fear conditioning, fear retrieval, and extinction.

RESULTS

Intra-DG treatment of MUS and Rp-cAMP impaired fear renewal. FSK and rolipram exhibited the opposite effect, which also occurred in the retrieval of original fear memory. This change in fear renewal was regulated by PDE4 isoforms PDE4A, PDE4A5, and PDE4D. In addition, FSK and rolipram facilitated the acquisition of fear conditioning in long-term memory, but not short-term memory, while Rp-cAMP impaired long-term memory. For extinction, FSK and rolipram inhibited extinction process, while Rp-cAMP facilitated fear extinction.

CONCLUSION

These findings demonstrated that fear renewal activated cAMP signaling in the DG through decreased PDE4 activity. Because of the role of cAMP signaling in the acquisition or retrieval of fear conditioning and encoding of extinction, it is speculated that initial learning and extinction may have similarities in molecular mechanism, especially fear retrieval and fear renewal may share cAMP signaling pathway in the DG.

Repeated shock stress facilitates basolateral amygdala synaptic plasticity through decreased cAMP-specific phosphodiesterase type IV (PDE4) expression

Previous studies have shown that exposure to stressful events can enhance fear memory and anxiety-like behavior as well as increase synaptic plasticity in the rat basolateral amygdala (BLA). We have evidence that repeated unpredictable shock stress (USS) elicits a long-lasting increase in anxiety-like behavior in rats, but the cellular mechanisms mediating this response remain unclear. Evidence from recent morphological studies suggests that alterations in the dendritic arbor or spine density of BLA principal neurons may underlie stress-induced anxiety behavior. Recently, we have shown that the induction of long-term potentiation (LTP) in BLA principal neurons is dependent on activation of postsynaptic D1 dopamine receptors and the subsequent activation of the cyclic adenosine 5'-monophosphate (cAMP)-protein kinase A (PKA) signaling cascade. Here, we have used in vitro whole-cell patch-clamp recording from BLA principal neurons to investigate the long-term consequences of USS on their morphological properties and synaptic plasticity. We provided evidence that the enhanced anxiety-like behavior in response to USS was not associated with any significant change in the morphological properties of BLA principal neurons, but was associated with a changed frequency dependence of synaptic plasticity, lowered LTP induction threshold, and reduced expression of phosphodiesterase type 4 enzymes (PDE4s). Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition of PDE4 activity with rolipram mimics the effects of chronic stress on LTP induction threshold and baseline startle. Our results provide the first evidence that stress both enhances anxiety-like behavior and facilitates synaptic plasticity in the amygdala through a common mechanism of PDE4-mediated disinhibition of cAMP-PKA signaling.

Coexistence of Multiple Types of Synaptic Plasticity in Individual Hippocampal CA1 Pyramidal Neurons

Understanding learning and memory mechanisms is an important goal in neuroscience. To gain insights into the underlying cellular mechanisms for memory formation, synaptic plasticity processes are studied with various techniques in different brain regions. A valid model to scrutinize different ways to enhance or decrease synaptic transmission is recording of long-term potentiation (LTP) or long-term depression (LTD). At the single cell level, spike timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) protocols have emerged as a powerful tool to investigate synaptic plasticity with stimulation paradigms that also likely occur during memory formation in vivo. Such kind of plasticity can be induced by different STDP paradigms with multiple repeat numbers and stimulation patterns. They subsequently recruit or activate different molecular pathways and neuromodulators for induction and expression of STDP. Dopamine (DA) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) have been recently shown to be important modulators for hippocampal STDP at Schaffer collateral (SC)-CA1 synapses and are activated exclusively by distinguishable STDP paradigms. Distinct types of parallel synaptic plasticity in a given neuron depend on specific subcellular molecular prerequisites. Since the basal and apical dendrites of CA1 pyramidal neurons are known to be heterogeneous, and distance-dependent dendritic gradients for specific receptors and ion channels are described, the dendrites might provide domain specific locations for multiple types of synaptic plasticity in the same neuron. In addition to the distinct signaling and expression mechanisms of various types of LTP and LTD, activation of these different types of plasticity might depend on background brain activity states. In this article, we will discuss some ideas why multiple forms of synaptic plasticity can simultaneously and independently coexist and can contribute so effectively to increasing the efficacy of memory storage and processing capacity of the brain. We hypothesize that resolving the subcellular location of t-LTP and t-LTD mechanisms that are regulated by distinct neuromodulator systems will be essential to reach a more cohesive understanding of synaptic plasticity in memory formation.

Rescue of Cyclic AMP Mediated Long Term Potentiation Impairment in the Hippocampus of Mecp2 Knockout (Mecp2(-/y) ) Mice by Rolipram

Rett syndrome (RTT) patients experience learning difficulties and memory loss. Analogous deficits of hippocampal plasticity are reported in mouse models of RTT. To elucidate the underlying pathophysiology, we studied long term potentiation (LTP) at the CA3 to CA1 synapses in the hippocampus in acute brain slices from WT and Mecp2(-/y) mice, by either activating cAMP dependent pathway or using high frequency stimulation, by means of patch clamp. We have observed that, the NMDA channel current characteristics remain unchanged in the Mecp2(-/y) mice. The adenylyl cyclase (AC) agonist forskolin evoked a long lasting potentiation of evoked EPSCs in WT CA1 neurons, but only minimally enhanced the EPSCs in the Mecp2(-/y) mice. This weaker potentiation in Mecp2 (-/) (y) mice was ameliorated by application of phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor rolipram. The hyperpolarization activated cyclic nucleotide gated channel current (I h) was potentiated to similar extent by forskolin in both phenotypes. Multiple tetanus induced cAMP-dependent plasticity was also impaired in the Mecp2 (-/) (y) mice, and was also partially rescued by rolipram. Western blot analysis of CA region of Mecp2 (-/) (y) mice hippocampus revealed more than twofold up-regulation of protein kinase A (PKA) regulatory subunits, while the expression of the catalytic subunit remained unchanged. We hypothesize that the overexpressed PKA regulatory subunits buffer cAMP and restrict the PKA mediated phosphorylation of target proteins necessary for LTP. Blocking the degradation of cAMP, thereby saturating the regulatory subunits alleviated this defect.

Methylphenidate amplifies long-term potentiation in rat hippocampus CA1 area involving the insertion of AMPA receptors by activation of β-adrenergic and D1/D5 receptors

Methylphenidate (MPH, Ritalin©) is widely used in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and recently as a drug of abuse. Although the effect of MPH has been studied in brain regions such as striatum and prefrontal cortex (PFC), the hippocampus has received relatively little attention. It is known that MPH increases the TBS-dependent Long Term Potentiation (LTP) in the CA1 area. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in this process are still unknown. Using field potential recordings and western blot analysis in rat hippocampal slices of young rats, we found that acute application of MPH enhances LTP in CA3-CA1 synapses in a dose-dependent manner with an EC50 of 73.44±6.32 nM. Using specific antagonists and paired-pulse facilitation protocols, we observed that the MPH-dependent increase of LTP involves not only β-adrenergic receptors activation but also post-synaptic D1/D5 dopamine receptors. The inhibition of PKA with PKI, suppressed the facilitation of LTP induced by MPH consistent with an involvement of the adenyl cyclase-cAMP-PKA dependent cascade downstream of the activation of D1/D5 receptors. In addition, samples of CA1 areas taken from slices potentiated with MPH presented an increase in the phosphorylation of the Ser845 residue of the GluA1 subunit of AMPA receptors compared to control slices. This effect was reverted by SCH23390, antagonist of D1/D5 receptors, and PKI. Moreover, we found an increase of surface-associated functional AMPA receptors. We propose that MPH increases TBS-dependent LTP in CA3-CA1 synapses through a polysynaptic mechanism involving activation of β-adrenergic and D1/D5 dopaminergic receptors and promoting the trafficking and insertion of functional AMPA receptors to the plasma membrane.

Multiple cellular cascades participate in long-term potentiation and in hippocampus-dependent learning

Since its discovery by Bliss and Lomo, the phenomenon of long-term potentiation (LTP) has been extensively studied, as it was viewed as a potential cellular mechanism of learning and memory. Over the years, many signaling cascades have been implicated in its induction, consolidation and maintenance, raising questions regarding its real significance. Here, we review several of the most commonly studie signaling cascades and discuss how they converge on a common set of mechanisms likely to be involved in the maintenance of LTP. We further argue that the existence of cross-talks between these different signaling cascades can not only account for several discrepancies in the literature, but also account for the existence of different forms of LTP, which can be engaged by different types of stimulus parameters under different experimental conditions. Finally, we discuss how the understanding of the diversity of LTP mechanisms can help us understand the diversity of the types of learning and memory. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled SI: Brain and Memory.

Systems biology of synaptic plasticity: a review on N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor mediated biochemical pathways and related mathematical models

Synaptic plasticity, an emergent property of synaptic networks, has shown strong correlation to one of the essential functions of the brain, memory formation. Through understanding synaptic plasticity, we hope to discover the modulators and mechanisms that trigger memory formation. In this paper, we first review the well understood modulators and mechanisms underlying N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor dependent synaptic plasticity, a major form of synaptic plasticity in hippocampus, and then comment on the key mathematical modelling approaches available in the literature to understand synaptic plasticity as the integration of the established functionalities of synaptic components.

The role of phosphodiesterases in hippocampal synaptic plasticity

Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) degrade cyclic nucleotides, signalling molecules that play important roles in synaptic plasticity and memory. Inhibition of PDEs may therefore enhance synaptic plasticity and memory as a result of elevated levels of these signalling molecules, and this has led to interest in PDE inhibitors as cognitive enhancers. The development of new mouse models in which PDE subtypes have been selectively knocked out and increasing selectivity of PDE antagonists means that this field is currently expanding. Roles for PDE2, 4, 5 and 9 in synaptic plasticity have so far been demonstrated and we review these studies here in the context of cyclic nucleotide signalling more generally. The role of other PDE families in synaptic plasticity has not yet been investigated, and this area promises to advance our understanding of cyclic nucleotide signalling in synaptic plasticity in the future. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Glutamate Receptor-Dependent Synaptic Plasticity'.

Regulation of NMDA receptor Ca2+ signalling and synaptic plasticity

NMDARs (N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors) are critical for synaptic function throughout the CNS (central nervous system). NMDAR-mediated Ca(2+) influx is implicated in neuronal differentiation, neuronal migration, synaptogenesis, structural remodelling, long-lasting forms of synaptic plasticity and higher cognitive functions. NMDAR-mediated Ca(2+) signalling in dendritic spines is not static, but can be remodelled in a cell- and synapse-specific manner by NMDAR subunit composition, protein kinases and neuronal activity during development and in response to sensory experience. Recent evidence indicates that Ca(2+) permeability of neuronal NMDARs, NMDAR-mediated Ca(2+) signalling in spines and induction of NMDAR-dependent LTP (long-term potentiation) at hippocampal Schaffer collateral-CA1 synapses are under control of the cAMP/PKA (protein kinase A) signalling cascade. Thus, by enhancing Ca(2+) influx through NMDARs in spines, PKA can regulate the induction of LTP. An emerging concept is that activity-dependent regulation of NMDAR-mediated Ca(2+) signalling by PKA and by extracellular signals that modulate cAMP or protein phosphatases at synaptic sites provides a dynamic and potentially powerful mechanism for bi-directional regulation of synaptic efficacy and remodelling.

Domoic acid induces a long-lasting enhancement of CA1 field responses and impairs tetanus-induced long-term potentiation in rat hippocampal slices

Domoic acid (DOM) is known to cause hippocampal neuronal damage and produces amnesic effects. We examined synaptic plasticity changes induced by DOM exposure in rat hippocampal CA1 region. Brief bath application of DOM to hippocampal slices produces a chemical form of long-term potentiation (LTP) of CA1 field synaptic potentials. The potentiation cannot be blocked by NMDA receptor antagonist MK-801 but can be blocked by the calcium-calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) inhibitor KN-62 or cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) inhibitor H-89. DOM-potentiated slices show decreased autophosphorylated CaMKII (p-Thr286), an effect that is also dependent on the activity of CaMKII and PKA. Increased phosphorylation of alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid (AMPA) receptor subunit GluR1 (p-Ser831) was seen in DOM-potentiated slices. Therefore, aberrant regulation of CaMKII and GluR1 phosphorylation occurs after DOM application. In addition, tetanus-induced LTP as well as the increase of phosphorylation of CaMKII (p-Thr286) were reduced in DOM-potentiated slices. Compared with brief exposure, slices recovering from prolonged exposure did not show potentiation or altered levels of CaMKII (p-Thr286) or GluR (p-Ser831). However, decreased phosphorylation of GluR1 at Ser845 was seen. These results describe a new chemical form of LTP and uncover novel molecular changes induced by DOM. The observed impairment of tetanus LTP and misregulation of CaMKII and GluR1 phosphorylation may partially account for DOM neurotoxicity and underlie the molecular basis for DOM-induced memory deficit.

PKA has a critical role in synaptic delivery of GluR1- and GluR4-containing AMPARs during initial stages of acquisition of in vitro classical conditioning

The cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) signaling pathway has been shown to be important in mechanisms of synaptic plasticity, although its direct and downstream signaling effects are not well understood. Using an in vitro model of eyeblink classical conditioning, we report that PKA has a critical role in initiating a signaling cascade that results in synaptic delivery of glutamate receptor 1 (GluR1)- and GluR4-containing alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors (AMPARs) in abducens motor neurons during conditioning. PKA and the Ca(2+)-calmodulin-dependent protein kinases (CaMKs) II and IV are activated early in conditioning and are required for acquisition and expression of conditioned responses (CRs). cAMP-response-element-binding protein (CREB) is also activated early in conditioning but is blocked by coapplication of inhibitors to PKA and the CaMKs, suggesting that CREB is downstream of those signaling cascades. Moreover, evidence suggests that PKA activates extracellular signal-regulated kinase, which is also required for conditioning. Imaging studies after conditioning further indicate that colocalization of GluR1 AMPAR subunits with the synaptic marker synaptophysin requires PKA, but is insensitive to the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) inhibitor d,l-AP5. PKA activation also leads to synaptic localization of GluR4 subunits that, unlike GluR1, is dependent on NMDARs and is mediated by CaMKII. Together with previous studies, our findings support a two-stage model of AMPAR synaptic delivery during acquisition of classical conditioning. The first stage involves synaptic incorporation of GluR1-containing AMPARs that serves to activate silent synapses. This allows a second stage of NMDAR- and protein kinase C-dependent delivery of GluR4 AMPAR subunits that supports the acquisition of CRs.

Developmental switch in requirement for PKA RIIbeta in NMDA-receptor-dependent synaptic plasticity at Schaffer collateral to CA1 pyramidal cell synapses

The cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) signaling cascade is crucial for synaptic plasticity in a wide variety of species. PKA regulates Ca2+ permeation through NMDA receptors (NMDARs) and induction of NMDAR-dependent synaptic plasticity at the Schaffer collateral to CA1 pyramidal cell synapse. Whereas the role of PKA in induction of NMDAR-dependent LTP at CA1 synapses is established, the identity of PKA isoforms involved in this phenomenon is less clear. Here we report that protein synthesis-independent NMDAR-dependent LTP at the Schaffer collateral-CA1 synapse in the hippocampus is deficient, but NMDAR-dependent LTD is normal, in young (postnatal day 10 (P10)-P14) mice lacking PKA RIIbeta, the PKA regulatory protein that links PKA to NMDARs at synaptic sites. In contrast, in young adult (P21-P28) mice lacking PKA RIIbeta, LTP is normal and LTD is abolished. These findings indicate that distinct PKA isoforms may subserve distinct forms of synaptic plasticity and are consistent with a developmental switch in the signaling cascades required for LTP induction.

N-methyl-D-aspartate-dependent long-term potentiation of excitatory transmission in trigeminal subnucleus oralis

This study for the first time demonstrates early developmental changes of passive/active membrane properties, and long-term potentiation (LTP) of excitatory synaptic transmission at spinal trigeminal subnucleus caudalis (Vc)-to-oralis (Vo) synapses. During postnatal development, the probability of Vo neurons with monosynaptic excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) upon Vc stimulation significantly increased, whereas the input resistances of Vo neurons and the latencies of monosynaptic EPSCs significantly decreased. Application of a 'pairing' protocol that comprises 2 Hz-conditioning stimulation of Vc with postsynaptic depolarization of Vo neuron to +30 mV generated LTP of alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid receptor-mediated monosynaptic EPSC amplitude in more than 70% of Vo neurons. The induction of LTP required the activation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, but its magnitudes had correlation neither with postnatal ages nor with baseline EPSC amplitudes.

D1/5 receptor-mediated enhancement of LTP requires PKA, Src family kinases, and NR2B-containing NMDARs

The efficacy of the D1/5 agonist SKF38393 (100nM-60microM) to increase long-term potentiation (LTP) in the CA1 region was investigated in the rat hippocampal slice preparation. The receptor specificity of this enhancing effect was confirmed using the D1/5 antagonist SKF83566 (2microM). Although the ability of D1/5 receptors to increase both the persistence and the early magnitude of LTP has previously been linked to activation of the cAMP/PKA pathway, the subsequent molecular events leading to the enhancement of LTP have not been characterized. In experiments using SKF38393 (20microM), a requirement for the activation of both protein kinase A (PKA) and Src family tyrosine kinase pathways was demonstrated, as pretreatment with either H89 (10microM) or PP2 (10microM) kinase inhibitors prevented the D1/5-mediated enhancement of LTP. In addition, NMDA receptors containing the NR2B subunit were identified as a potential downstream target for this signaling pathway, as pretreatment with the selective antagonist Ro 25-6981 (1microM) also prevented the D1/5-mediated enhancement of LTP. The results identify a crucial role for NR2B-containing NMDA receptors in the modulation of LTP by D1/5-receptors in the CA1, suggesting that endogenously released dopamine may act through this mechanism as a modulator of hippocampal-dependent learning and memory tasks.

Galpha(i2) inhibition of adenylate cyclase regulates presynaptic activity and unmasks cGMP-dependent long-term depression at Schaffer collateral-CA1 hippocampal synapses

Cyclic AMP signaling plays a central role in regulating activity at a number of synapses in the brain. We showed previously that pairing activation of receptors that inhibit adenylate cyclase (AC) and reduce the concentration of cyclic AMP, with elevation of the concentration of cyclic GMP is sufficient to elicit a presynaptically expressed form of LTD at Schaffer collateral-CA1 synapses in the hippocampus. To directly test the role of AC inhibition and G-protein signaling in LTD at these synapses, we utilized transgenic mice that express a mutant, constitutively active inhibitory G protein, Galpha(i2), in principal neurons of the forebrain. Transgene expression of Galpha(i2) markedly enhanced LTD and impaired late-phase LTP at Schaffer collateral synapses, with no associated differences in input/output relations, paired-pulse facilitation, or NMDA receptor-gated conductances. When paired with application of a type V phosphodiesterase inhibitor to elevate the concentration of intracellular cyclic GMP, constitutively active Galpha(i2) expression converted the transient depression normally caused by this treatment to an LTD that persisted after the drug was washed out. Moreover, this effect could be mimicked in control slices by pairing type V phosphodiesterase inhibitor application with application of a PKA inhibitor. Electrophysiological recordings of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents and two-photon visualization of vesicular release using FM1-43 revealed that constitutively active Galpha(i2) tonically reduced basal release probability from the rapidly recycling vesicle pool of Schaffer collateral terminals. Our findings support the hypothesis that inhibitory G-protein signaling acts presynaptically to regulate release, and, when paired with elevations in the concentration of cyclic GMP, converts a transient cyclic GMP-induced depression into a long-lasting decrease in release.

Regulation of hippocampus-dependent memory by cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase

The hippocampus is crucial for the consolidation of new declarative long-term memories. Genetic and behavioral experimentation have revealed that several protein kinases are critical for the formation of hippocampus-dependent long-term memories. Cyclic-AMP dependent protein kinase (PKA) is a serine-threonine kinase that has been strongly implicated in the expression of specific forms of hippocampus-dependent memory. We review evidence that PKA is required for hippocampus-dependent memory in mammals, and we highlight some of the proteins that have been implicated as targets of PKA. Future directions and open questions regarding the role of PKA in memory storage are also described.

Inhibition of the cyclic adenosine monophosphate pathway attenuates neuropathic pain and reduces phosphorylation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element-binding in the spinal cord after partial sciatic nerve ligation in rats

BACKGROUND

Recent reports have identified a role for cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) transduction in nociceptive processing. Spinal activation of the cAMP induced gene transcription through the activation of protein kinase A and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB). Intrathecal injection of protein kinase A inhibitor reversed the mechanical hyperalgesia, whereas injection of CREB antisense attenuated tactile allodynia caused by partial sciatic nerve ligation (PSNL) in rats. In the present study, we aimed to assess the effects of spinal cAMP transduction on the nociceptive processing in a chronic neuropathic pain model.

METHODS

PSNL was performed in male Sprague-Dawley rats 1 wk after intrathecal catheterization. Nociception to mechanical and thermal stimuli was assessed at the hindpaw 2 h, 3, 7, and 14 days after PSNL. The effects of adenylate cyclase inhibitor, SQ22536 (0.7 mumol, intrathecal) on these nociceptions were evaluated. Changes in the expression and immunoreactivity of CREB and its phosphorylated proteins (CREB-IR and pCREB-IR) in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord were also measured.

RESULTS

The expression of CREB-IR and pCREB-IR proteins was shown to increase for 2 wk after PSNL. The increase in pCREB was partially reversed by the blockade of the cAMP pathway in the early 3 days, with a parallel increase in mechanical and thermal withdrawal thresholds.

CONCLUSION

These results revealed the possible contribution of an increase in pCREB to the PSNL-induced tactile allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia. Modulation of the cAMP pathway may be clinically relevant if early intervention can be achieved in patients with chronic neuropathic pain.

A role for protein kinase A and protein kinase M zeta in muscarinic acetylcholine receptor-initiated persistent synaptic enhancement in rat hippocampus in vivo

Antagonists at presynaptic muscarinic autoreceptors increase endogenous acetylcholine (ACh) release and enhance cognition but little is known regarding their actions on plasticity at glutamatergic synapses. Here the mechanisms of the persistent enhancement of hippocampal excitatory transmission induced by the M2/M4 muscarinic ACh receptor antagonist methoctramine were investigated in vivo. The persistent facilitatory effect of i.c.v. methoctramine in the CA1 region of urethane-anesthetized rats was mimicked by gallamine, an M2 receptor antagonist, supporting a role for this receptor subtype. Neither the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists D-(-)-2-amino phosphonopentanoic acid (d-AP5) and memantine, nor the metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 1a antagonist (S)-(+)-alpha-amino-4-carboxy-2-methylbenzeneacetic acid (LY367385) significantly affected the methoctramine-induced persistent synaptic enhancement, indicating a lack of requirement for these glutamate receptors. The selective kinase inhibitors Rp-adenosine-3', 5'-cyclic monophosphorothioate (Rp-cAMPS) and the myrostylated pseudosubstrate peptide, Myr-Ser-Ile-Tyr-Arg-Arg-Gly-Ala-Arg-Arg-Trp-Arg-Lys-Leu-OH (ZIP), were used to investigate the roles of protein kinase A (PKA) and the atypical protein kinase C, protein kinase Mzeta (PKM zeta), respectively. Remarkably, pretreatment with either agent prevented the induction of the persistent synaptic enhancement by methoctramine and post-methoctramine treatment with Rp-cAMPS transiently reversed the enhancement. These findings are strong evidence that antagonism of M2 muscarinic ACh receptors in vivo induces an NMDA receptor-independent persistent synaptic enhancement that requires activation of both PKA and PKM zeta.

Learning-induced glutamate receptor phosphorylation resembles that induced by long term potentiation

Long term potentiation and long term depression of synaptic responses in the hippocampus are thought to be critical for certain forms of learning and memory, although until recently it has been difficult to demonstrate that long term potentiation or long term depression occurs during hippocampus-dependent learning. Induction of long term potentiation or long term depression in hippocampal slices in vitro modulates phosphorylation of the alpha-amino-3-hydrozy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid subtype of glutamate receptor subunit GluR1 at distinct phosphorylation sites. In long term potentiation, GluR1 phosphorylation is increased at the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase and protein kinase C site serine 831, whereas in long term depression, phosphorylation of the protein kinase A site serine 845 is decreased. Indeed, phosphorylation of one or both of these sites is required for long term synaptic plasticity and for certain forms of learning and memory. Here we demonstrate that training in a hippocampus-dependent learning task, contextual fear conditioning is associated with increased phosphorylation of GluR1 at serine 831 in the hippocampal formation. This increased phosphorylation is specific to learning, has a similar time course to that in long term potentiation, and like memory and long term potentiation, is dependent on N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor activation during training. Furthermore, the learning-induced increase in serine 831 phosphorylation is present at synapses and is in heteromeric complexes with the glutamate receptor subunit GluR2. These data indicate that a biochemical correlate of long term potentiation occurs at synapses in receptor complexes in a final, downstream, postsynaptic effector of long term potentiation during learning in vivo, further strengthening the link between long term potentiation and memory.

G protein-coupled receptors control NMDARs and metaplasticity in the hippocampus

Long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD) are the major forms of functional synaptic plasticity observed at CA1 synapses of the hippocampus. The balance between LTP and LTD or "metaplasticity" is controlled by G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) whose signal pathways target the N-methyl-D-asparate (NMDA) subtype of excitatory glutamate receptor. We discuss the protein kinase signal cascades stimulated by Galphaq and Galphas coupled GPCRs and describe how control of NMDAR activity shifts the threshold for the induction of LTP.

Involvement of the nitric oxide pathway in synaptic dysfunction following amyloid elevation in Alzheimer's disease

Amyloid-beta (Abeta), a peptide thought to play a crucial role in Alzheimer's disease (AD), has attracted scientific interest with the aim of characterizing the mechanisms by which it is involved in AD pathogenesis. Abeta has been found to markedly impair hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP), a widely studied cellular model of synaptic plasticity that is thought to underlie learning and memory. The overall purpose of this review is to define the role of the nitric oxide (NO)/cGMP/cAMP-regulatory element binding (CREB) pathway in beta-amyloid-induced changes of basal neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus, a structure within the temporal lobe of the brain critical for memory storage.

Opposing actions of chronic Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabinoid antagonists on hippocampal long-term potentiation

Memory deficits produced by marijuana arise partly via interaction of the psychoactive component, Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9)-THC), with cannabinoid receptors in the hippocampus. Although cannabinoids acutely reduce glutamate release and block hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP), a potential substrate for learning and memory, the consequences of prolonged exposure to Delta(9)-THC for hippocampal function are poorly understood. Rats were injected with Delta(9)-THC (10 mg/kg, i.p., q.d.) for 1, 3, or 7 d, and electrophysiological recordings were performed in hippocampal slices 1d after the final injection. At this time, Delta(9)-THC was undetectable in hippocampus using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Hippocampal LTP generated using high-frequency (HFS) or theta burst stimulation was not observed in brain slices from the 7-d Delta(9)-THC-treated animals. Delta(9)-THC also blocked HFS-LTP after 3 d, but not 1 d of treatment. The complete blockade of LTP persisted for 3 d after the last Delta(9)-THC injection, and full reversal of the LTP deficit was not observed up to 14 d following Delta(9)-THC withdrawal. The cannabinoid antagonist AM251 (2 mg/kg), administered before each Delta(9)-THC injection prevented the blockade of LTP, and 7-d treatment with AM251 alone significantly increased the level of LTP. Chronic Delta(9)-THC also produced tolerance to the inhibition of synaptic GABA, but not glutamate release by the agonist WIN55,212-2. These data define consequences of repeated Delta(9)-THC exposure for synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus that may help explain memory impairments in humans following chronic marijuana use.

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha induces long-term potentiation of C-fiber evoked field potentials in spinal dorsal horn in rats with nerve injury: the role of NF-kappa B, JNK and p38 MAPK

Compelling evidence has shown that in hippocampus tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) at pathological concentration inhibits long-term potentiation (LTP), a synaptic model of learning and memory. In the present work we investigated the role of TNF-alpha in LTP of C-fiber evoked field potentials in spinal dorsal horn, which is relevant to pathological pain. We showed that spinal application of TNF-alpha affected neither basal synaptic transmission mediated by C-fibers nor spinal LTP of C-fiber evoked field potentials induced by tetanic stimulation in intact rats. However, in rats with neuropathic pain, produced by either lumbar 5 ventral root transection (L5 VRT) or spared nerve injury (SNI), spinal application of TNF-alpha induced LTP of C-fiber evoked field potentials. Spinal application of JNK inhibitor (SP600125) or p38 MAPK inhibitor (SB203580) did not affect the spinal LTP induced by tetanic stimulation in intact rats, but completely blocked LTP induced by TNF-alpha in L5 VRT rats. NF-kappa B (NF-kappaB) inhibitor (PDTC) also blocked LTP induced by TNF-alpha. These results suggest that TNF-alpha and its downstream molecules may have no acute effect on spinal synaptic transmission in intact animals and induce LTP in rats with neuropathic pain produced by nerve injury.

Spike-timing-dependent plasticity at resting and conditioned lateral perforant path synapses on granule cells in the dentate gyrus: different roles of N-methyl-D-aspartate and group I metabotropic glutamate receptors

We examined the mechanisms underlying spike-timing-dependent plasticity induction at resting and conditioned lateral perforant pathway (LPP) synapses in the rat dentate gyrus. Two stimulating electrodes were placed in the outer third of the molecular layer and in the granule cell layer in hippocampal slices to evoke field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) and antidromic field somatic spikes (afSSs), respectively. Long-term potentiation (LTP) of LPP synapses was induced by paired stimulation with fEPSP preceding afSS. Reversal of the temporal order of fEPSP and afSS stimulation resulted in long-term depression (LTD). Induction of LTP or LTD was blocked by D,L-2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoic acid (AP5), showing that both effects were N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR)-dependent. Induction of LTP was also blocked by inhibitors of calcium-calmodulin kinase II, protein kinase C or mitogen-activated/extracellular-signal regulated kinase, suggesting that these are downstream effectors of NMDAR activation, whereas induction of LTD was blocked by inhibitors of protein kinase C and protein phosphatase 2B. At LPP synapses previously potentiated by high-frequency stimulation or depressed by low-frequency stimulation, paired fEPSP-afSS stimulation resulted in 'de-depression' at depressed LPP synapses but had no effect on potentiated synapses, whereas reversal of the temporal order of fEPSP-afSS stimulation resulted in 'de-potentiation' at potentiated synapses but had no effect on depressed synapses. Induction of de-depression and de-potentiation was unaffected by ap5 but was blocked by 2-methyl-6-(phenylethynyl) pyridine hydrochloride, a group I metabotropic glutamate receptor blocker, showing that both were NMDAR-independent but group I metabotropic glutamate receptor-dependent. In conclusion, our results show that spike-timing-dependent plasticity can occur at both resting and conditioned LPP synapses, its induction in the former case being NMDAR-dependent and, in the latter, group I metabotropic glutamate receptor-dependent.

Synaptic plasticity and phosphorylation

A number of neuronal functions, including synaptic plasticity, depend on proper regulation of synaptic proteins, many of which can be rapidly regulated by phosphorylation. Neuronal activity controls the function of these synaptic proteins by exquisitely regulating the balance of various protein kinase and protein phosphatase activity. Recent understanding of synaptic plasticity mechanisms underscores important roles that these synaptic phosphoproteins play in regulating both pre- and post-synaptic functions. This review will focus on key postsynaptic phosphoproteins that have been implicated to play a role in synaptic plasticity.

Dopamine transporter blockade increases LTP in the CA1 region of the rat hippocampus via activation of the D3 dopamine receptor

Dopamine has been demonstrated to be involved in the modulation of long-term potentiation (LTP) in the CA1 region of the hippocampus. As monoamine transporter blockade will increase the actions of endogenous monoamine neurotransmitters, the effect of a dopamine transporter (DAT) antagonist on LTP was assessed using field excitatory postsynaptic potentials recorded in the CA1 region of the rat hippocampal slice preparation. Application of the DAT-specific blocker GBR 12,935 produced a significant enhancement in LTP of Schaffer collateral synapses in the CA1 at concentrations as low as 100 nM. A selective D1/D5 dopamine receptor antagonist (SCH 23,390, 1 microM) did not affect the ability of GBR 12,935 to enhance LTP, whereas application of the D3 dopamine receptor antagonist U 99,194 (1 microM) blocked the GBR 12,935-induced enhancement in LTP. In addition, a D3 dopamine receptor agonist (7-OH-DPAT, 1 microM) caused a significant increase in LTP, an effect that was also blocked by U 99,194 (3 microM). These results suggest that either endogenously released dopamine (facilitated by DAT blockade) or exogenously applied dopamine agonist can act to increase LTP in the CA1 of the hippocampus via activation of the D3 subtype of dopamine receptor.

Low-frequency stimulation induces a new form of LTP, metabotropic glutamate (mGlu5) receptor- and PKA-dependent, in the CA1 area of the rat hippocampus

Low frequency-induced short-term synaptic plasticity was investigated in hippocampal slices with 60-electrode recording array. Remarkably, the application of low-frequency stimulation (1 Hz) for a short duration (3-5 min) resulted in the induction of a slow-onset long-term potentiation (LTP) in the immediate vicinity of the stimulated electrode. This phenomenon was observed exclusively in the CA1 subfield, neither in the CA3 area nor in the dentate gyrus. The induction of this slow-onset LTP required neither N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) nor non-NMDA ionotropic receptor activation but was strongly dependent on metabotropic glutamate mGlu(5) receptor stimulation and [Ca(2+)]i increase. In addition, this form of synaptic plasticity was associated with an increase in cAMP concentration and required protein kinase A activation. Paired-pulse facilitation ratio and presynaptic fiber volley amplitude were unaffected when this LTP was triggered, suggesting the involvement of postsynaptic modifications. Although mitogen activated protein kinase pathway was stimulated after the application of low frequency, the induction and maintenance of this slow-onset LTP were not dependent on the activation of this intracellular pathway. The direct activation of adenylyl cyclase with forskolin also induced a synaptic enhancement displaying similar features. This new form of LTP could represent the mnesic engram of mild and repetitive stimulation involved in latent learning.

Protein kinase Mzeta enhances excitatory synaptic transmission by increasing the number of active postsynaptic AMPA receptors

Protein kinase Mzeta (PKMzeta), a constitutively active, atypical PKC isoform, enhances synaptic strength during the maintenance of long-term potentiation (LTP). Here we examine the mechanism by which PKMzeta increases synaptic transmission. Postsynaptic perfusion of PKMzeta during whole-cell recordings of CA1 pyramidal cells strongly potentiated the amplitude of AMPA receptor (AMPAR)-mediated miniature EPSCs (mEPSCs). Nonstationary fluctuation analysis of events recorded before and after PKMzeta enhancement showed that the kinase doubled the number of functional postsynaptic AMPAR channels. After sustained potentiation, application of a PKMzeta inhibitor reversed the increase in functional channel number to basal levels, suggesting that persistent increase of PKMzeta is required to maintain the postsynaptic localization of a mobile subpopulation of receptors. The kinase did not affect other sites of LTP expression, including presynaptic transmitter release, silent synapse conversion, or AMPAR unit conductance. Thus PKMzeta functions specifically to establish and maintain long-term increases in active postsynaptic AMPAR number.

Long-lasting modulation of the induction of LTD and LTP in rat hippocampal CA1 by behavioural stress and environmental enrichment

Behavioural experience (e.g. chronic stress, environmental enrichment) can have long-lasting effects on cognitive functions. Because activity-dependent persistent changes in synaptic strength are believed to mediate memory processes in brain areas such as hippocampus, we tested whether behaviour has also long-lasting effects on synaptic plasticity by examining the induction of long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD) in slices of hippocampal CA1 obtained from rats either 7-9 months after social defeat (behavioural stress) or 3-5 weeks after 5-week exposure to environmental enrichment. Compared with age-matched controls, defeated rats showed markedly reduced LTP. LTP was even completely impaired but LTD was enhanced in defeated and, subsequently, individually housed (during the 7-9-month period after defeat) rats. However, increasing stimulus intensity during 100-Hz stimulation resulted in significant LTP. This suggests that the threshold for LTP induction is still raised and that for LTD lowered several months after a short stressful experience. Both LTD and LTP were enhanced in environmentally enriched rats, 3-5 weeks after enrichment, as compared with age-matched controls. Because enrichment reduced paired-pulse facilitation, an increase in presynaptic release, facilitating both LTD and LTP induction, might contribute to enhanced synaptic changes. Consistently, enrichment reduced the number of 100-Hz stimuli required for inducing LTP. But enrichment may also actually enhance the range of synaptic modification. Repeated LTP and LTD induction produced larger synaptic changes in enriched than in control rats. These data reveal that exposure to very different behavioural experiences can produce long-lasting effects on the susceptibility to synaptic plasticity, involving pre- and postsynaptic processes.

A novel role for cyclic guanosine 3',5'monophosphate signaling in synaptic plasticity: a selective suppressor of protein kinase A-dependent forms of long-term potentiation

At excitatory synapses onto hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells, activation of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase and subsequent down-regulation of protein phosphatases has a crucial role in the induction of long-term potentiation by low-frequency patterns of synaptic stimulation. Because the second messenger cyclic guanosine 3',5'monophosphate can regulate the activity of different forms of the cyclic AMP degrading enzyme phosphodiesterase, we examined whether increases in cyclic guanosine 3',5'monophosphate can modulate long-term potentiation induction in the mouse hippocampal CA1 region through effects on cyclic AMP signaling. Using the cyclic guanosine 3',5'monophosphate-specific phosphodiesterase inhibitor zaprinast or the nitric oxide donor S-nitroso-D,L-penicillamine to elevate cyclic guanosine 3',5'monophosphate levels we found that increases in cyclic guanosine 3',5'monophosphate strongly inhibit the induction of long-term potentiation by low-frequency patterns of synaptic stimulation where protein kinase A activation is required for long-term potentiation induction. In contrast, zaprinast and S-nitroso-D,L-penicillamine had no effect on the induction of long-term potentiation by high-frequency patterns of synaptic stimulation that induce long-term potentiation in a protein kinase A-independent manner. Directly activating protein kinase A with the phosphodiesterase-resistant cyclic AMP analog 8-Br-cAMP, blocking all phosphodiesterases with 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine, or inhibiting protein phosphatases rescued long-term potentiation induction in zaprinast-treated slices. Together, these results suggest that increases in cyclic guanosine 3',5'monophosphate inhibit long-term potentiation by activating phosphodiesterases that interfere with the protein kinase A-mediated suppression of protein phosphatases needed for long-term potentiation induction. Consistent with the notion that this cyclic guanosine 3',5'monophosphate-mediated inhibitory pathway is recruited by some patterns of synaptic activity, blocking cyclic guanosine 3',5'monophosphate production strongly facilitated the induction of long-term potentiation by long trains of theta-frequency synaptic stimulation. Together, our results indicate that increases in cyclic guanosine 3',5'monophosphate can act as a long-term potentiation suppressor mechanism that selectively constrains the induction of protein kinase A-dependent forms of long-term potentiation induced by low-frequency patterns of synaptic stimulation.

Protein kinase A regulates calcium permeability of NMDA receptors

Calcium (Ca2+) influx through NMDA receptors (NMDARs) is essential for synaptogenesis, experience-dependent synaptic remodeling and plasticity. The NMDAR-mediated rise in postsynaptic Ca2+ activates a network of kinases and phosphatases that promote persistent changes in synaptic strength, such as long-term potentiation (LTP). Here we show that the Ca2+ permeability of neuronal NMDARs is under the control of the cyclic AMP-protein kinase A (cAMP-PKA) signaling cascade. PKA blockers reduced the relative fractional Ca2+ influx through NMDARs as determined by reversal potential shift analysis and by a combination of electrical recording and Ca2+ influx measurements in rat hippocampal neurons in culture and hippocampal slices from mice. In slices, PKA blockers markedly inhibited NMDAR-mediated Ca2+ rises in activated dendritic spines, with no significant effect on synaptic current. Consistent with this, PKA blockers depressed the early phase of NMDAR-dependent LTP at hippocampal Schaffer collateral-CA1 (Sch-CA1) synapses. Our data link PKA-dependent synaptic plasticity to Ca2+ signaling in spines and thus provide a new mechanism whereby PKA regulates the induction of LTP.

Melatonin inhibits hippocampal long-term potentiation

The goal of this study is to investigate the effect of the hormone melatonin on long-term potentiation and excitability measured by stimulating the Schaffer collaterals and recording the field excitatory postsynaptic potential from the CA1 dendritic layer in hippocampal brain slices from mice. Application of melatonin produced a concentration-dependent inhibition of the induction of long-term potentiation, with a concentration of 100 nm producing an approximately 50% inhibition of long-term potentiation magnitude. Long-duration melatonin treatments of 6 h were also effective at reducing the magnitude of long-term potentiation. Melatonin (100 nm) did not alter baseline evoked responses or paired-pulse facilitation recorded at this synapse. The inhibitory actions of melatonin were prevented by application of the melatonin (MT) receptor antagonist luzindole as well as the MT2 receptor subtype antagonist 4-phenyl-2-propionamidotetraline. These inhibitory actions of melatonin were lost in mice deficient in MT2 receptors but not those deficient in MT1 receptors. In addition, application of the protein kinase A inhibitor H-89 both mimicked the effects of melatonin and precluded further inhibition by melatonin. Finally, the application an activator of adenylyl cyclase, forskolin, overcame the inhibitory effects of melatonin on LTP without affecting the induction of long-term potentiation on its own. These results suggest that hippocampal synaptic plasticity may be constrained by melatonin through a mechanism involving MT2-receptor-mediated regulation of the adenylyl cyclase-protein kinase A pathway.

Postsynaptic mechanisms are essential for forskolin-induced potentiation of synaptic transmission

It has been demonstrated that stimulation of protein kinase A (PKA) results in enhanced synaptic transmission in the hippocampus and other brain areas. To investigate mechanisms of the PKA-mediated potentiation of synaptic transmission, we used rat hippocampal embryonic cultures. In low-density cultures, paired recordings under the perforated patch demonstrated that 15-min forskolin treatment produced long-lasting potentiation of evoked excitatory postsynaptic currents (eEPSCs) mediated by the cAMP/PKA pathway. eEPSC amplitudes increased to 240 +/- 10% of baseline after 15 min of forskolin treatment (early). After forskolin washout, eEPSCs declined to a potentiated level. Potentiation was sustained for > or = 85 min after forskolin washout and, 60 min after forskolin washout, constituted 152 +/- 7% of baseline (late potentiation). Disruption of presynaptic processes with the whole cell configuration and internal solution containing PKA inhibitor peptide did not affect forskolin-induced potentiation. Disruption of postsynaptic processes, in contrast, impaired early potentiation and abolished late potentiation. Study of mEPSCs confirmed the contribution of postsynaptic mechanisms. Forskolin-induced enhancement of mEPSC frequency observed under the perforated patch was attenuated by the whole cell configuration. Forskolin also induced an increase of mEPSC amplitudes in the perforated patch, but not in the whole cell, experiments. Potentiation of eEPSCs was not activity dependent, persisting in the absence of stimulation. NMDA receptor blockade did not abolish forskolin-induced potentiation. In summary, we demonstrate that forskolin-induced potentiation of eEPSCs was mediated by postsynaptic mechanisms, presumably by upregulation of AMPA receptors by phosphorylation.

Removal of G(ialpha1) constraints on adenylyl cyclase in the hippocampus enhances LTP and impairs memory formation

Stimulation of adenylyl cyclase in the hippocampus is critical for memory formation. However, generation of cAMP signals within an optimal range for memory may require a balance between stimulatory and inhibitory mechanisms. The role of adenylyl cyclase inhibitory mechanisms for memory has not been addressed. One of the mechanisms for inhibition of adenylyl cyclase is through activation of G(i)-coupled receptors, a mechanism that could serve as a constraint on memory formation. Here we report that ablation of G(ialpha1) by gene disruption increases hippocampal adenylyl cyclase activity and enhances LTP in area CA1. Furthermore, gene ablation of G(ialpha1) or antisense oligonucleotide-mediated depletion of G(ialpha1) disrupted hippocampus-dependent memory. We conclude that G(ialpha1) provides a critical mechanism for tonic inhibition of adenylyl cyclase activity in the hippocampus. We hypothesize that loss of G(ialpha1) amplifies the responsiveness of CA1 postsynaptic neurons to stimuli that strengthen synaptic efficacy, thereby diminishing synapse-specific plasticity required for new memory formation.

Inhibition of perforant path input to the CA1 region by serotonin and noradrenaline

Bath-applied monoamines-dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT), and noradrenaline (NE)-strongly suppress the perforant path (PP) input to CA1 hippocampal region with very little effect on the Schaffer collaterals (SC) input. The effect of DA action on PP field excitatory postsynaptic potential (fEPSP) has been characterized in detail, but relatively little is known about the NE and 5-HT effects. Here we show that the maximal inhibition of the PP fEPSP by NE is approximately 55%, whereas 5-HT inhibition is weaker ( approximately 35%). The half-maximal inhibitory concentration of both 5-HT and NE is approximately 1 muM. Neither NE nor 5-HT affected paired-pulse facilitation, suggesting that the effect is not presynaptic. This is in contrast to DA, which does have a presynaptic effect. The NE effect was blocked by alpha2 antagonists, whereas the alpha1 antagonist corynanthine and beta-antagonist propranolol were ineffective. The effect of 5-HT was mimicked by the agonist, 5-carboxamidotryptamine maleate (5-CT), and not affected by adrenergic and dopaminergic antagonists. To determine the 5-HT receptors involved, we tested a number of 5-HT antagonists, but none produced a complete suppression of the 5-HT effect. Of these, only the 5-HT7 and 5-HT2 antagonists produced weak but significant inhibition of 5-HT effect. We conclude that NE inhibits the PP fEPSP through postsynaptic action on alpha2-adrenoceptors and that 5-HT7, 5-HT2, and some other receptor may be involved in 5-HT action in PP.

The role of calmodulin as a signal integrator for synaptic plasticity

Excitatory synapses in the brain show several forms of synaptic plasticity, including long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD), which are initiated by increases in intracellular Ca(2+) that are generated through NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptors or voltage-sensitive Ca(2+) channels. LTP depends on the coordinated regulation of an ensemble of enzymes, including Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II, adenylyl cyclase 1 and 8, and calcineurin, all of which are stimulated by calmodulin, a Ca(2+)-binding protein. In this review, we discuss the hypothesis that calmodulin is a central integrator of synaptic plasticity and that its unique regulatory properties allow the integration of several forms of signal transduction that are required for LTP and LTD.