Rapid enhancement of two-step wiring plasticity by estrogen and NMDA receptor activity.

ABSTRACT: Cortical information storage requires combined changes in connectivity and synaptic strength between neurons, but the signaling mechanisms underlying this two-step wiring plasticity are unknown. Because acute 17beta-estradiol (E2) modulates cortical memory, we examined its effects on spine morphogenesis, AMPA receptor trafficking, and GTPase signaling in cortical neurons. Acute E2 application resulted in a rapid, transient increase in spine density, accompanied by temporary formation of silent synapses through reduced surface GluR1. These rapid effects of E2 were dependent on a Rap/AF-6/ERK1/2 pathway. Intriguingly, NMDA receptor (NMDAR) activation after E2 treatment potentiated silent synapses and elevated spine density for as long as 24 h. Hence, we show that E2 transiently increases neu

SUBMITTER: Srivastava DP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2567160 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature