SynGAP regulates synaptic strength and mitogen-activated protein kinases in cultured neurons.

ABSTRACT: Silent synapses, or excitatory synapses that lack functional alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors (AMPARs), are thought to be critical for regulation of neuronal circuits and synaptic plasticity. Here, we report that SynGAP, an excitatory synapse-specific RasGAP, regulates AMPAR trafficking, silent synapse number, and excitatory synaptic transmission in hippocampal and cortical cultured neurons. Overexpression of SynGAP in neurons results in a remarkable depression of AMPAR-mediated miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents, a significant reduction in synaptic AMPAR surface expression, and a decrease in the insertion of AMPARs into the plasma membrane. This change is specific for AMPARs because no change is observed in synaptic NMDA receptor expression or tot

SUBMITTER: Rumbaugh G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1450173 | biostudies-literature | 2006 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature