NeuroD2 regulates the development of hippocampal mossy fiber synapses.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The assembly of neural circuits requires the concerted action of both genetically determined and activity-dependent mechanisms. Calcium-regulated transcription may link these processes, but the influence of specific transcription factors on the differentiation of synapse-specific properties is poorly understood. Here we characterize the influence of NeuroD2, a calcium-dependent transcription factor, in regulating the structural and functional maturation of the hippocampal mossy fiber (MF) synapse.

Results

Using NeuroD2 null mice and in vivo lentivirus-mediated gene knockdown, we demonstrate a critical role for NeuroD2 in the formation of CA3 dendritic spines receiving MF inputs. We also use electrophysiological recordings from CA3 neurons while stimulating MF axon

SUBMITTER: Wilke SA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3310804 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature