Presynaptic LRP4 promotes synapse number and function of excitatory CNS neurons.

ABSTRACT: Precise coordination of synaptic connections ensures proper information flow within circuits. The activity of presynaptic organizing molecules signaling to downstream pathways is essential for such coordination, though such entities remain incompletely known. We show that LRP4, a conserved transmembrane protein known for its postsynaptic roles, functions presynaptically as an organizing molecule. In the Drosophila brain, LRP4 localizes to the nerve terminals at or near active zones. Loss of presynaptic LRP4 reduces excitatory (not inhibitory) synapse number, impairs active zone architecture, and abolishes olfactory attraction - the latter of which can be suppressed by reducing presynaptic GABA_B receptors. LRP4 overexpression increases synapse number in excitatory and inhi

SUBMITTER: Mosca TJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5469616 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature