Spine microdomains for postsynaptic signaling and plasticity.
Journal Article (Review;Journal Article)
Changes in the molecular composition and signaling properties of excitatory glutamatergic synapses onto dendritic spines mediate learning-related plasticity in the mammalian brain. This molecular adaptation serves as the most celebrated cell biological model for learning and memory. Within their micron-sized dimensions, dendritic spines restrict the diffusion of signaling molecules and spatially confine the activation of signal transduction pathways. Much of this local regulation occurs by spatial compartmentalization of glutamate receptors. Here, we review recently identified cell biological mechanisms regulating glutamate receptor mobility within individual dendritic spines. We discuss the emerging functions of glutamate receptors residing within sub-spine microdomains and propose a model for distinct signaling platforms with specialized functions in synaptic plasticity.
Full Text
Duke Authors
Cited Authors
- Newpher, TM; Ehlers, MD
Published Date
- May 2009
Published In
Volume / Issue
- 19 / 5
Start / End Page
- 218 - 227
PubMed ID
- 19328694
Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)
- 1879-3088
International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)
- 0962-8924
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
- 10.1016/j.tcb.2009.02.004
Language
- eng