Pumilio-2 regulates translation of Nav1.6 to mediate homeostasis of membrane excitability.

ABSTRACT: The ability to regulate intrinsic membrane excitability, to maintain consistency of action potential firing, is critical for stable neural circuit activity. Without such mechanisms, Hebbian-based synaptic plasticity could push circuits toward activity saturation or, alternatively, quiescence. Although now well documented, the underlying molecular components of these homeostatic mechanisms remain poorly understood. Recent work in the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, has identified Pumilio (Pum), a translational repressor, as an essential component of one such mechanism. In response to changing synaptic excitation, Pum regulates the translation of the voltage-gated sodium conductance, leading to a concomitant adjustment in action potential firing. Although similar homeostatic mechanisms a

SUBMITTER: Driscoll HE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3678506 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature