Cdk7 Is Required for Activity-Dependent Neuronal Gene Expression, Long-Lasting Synaptic Plasticity and Long-Term Memory.

ABSTRACT: In the brain, de novo gene expression driven by learning-associated neuronal activities is critical for the formation of long-term memories. However, the signaling machinery mediating neuronal activity-induced gene expression, especially the rapid transcription of immediate-early genes (IEGs) remains unclear. Cyclin-dependent kinases (Cdks) are a family of serine/threonine kinases that have been firmly established as key regulators of transcription processes underling coordinated cell cycle entry and sequential progression in nearly all types of proliferative cells. Cdk7 is a subunit of transcriptional initiation factor II-H (TFIIH) and the only known Cdk-activating kinase (CAK) in metazoans. Recent studies using a novel Cdk7 specific covalent inhibitor, THZ1, revealed important roles of C

SUBMITTER: He G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5681959 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature