Inhibitory Synapse Formation at the Axon Initial Segment.

ABSTRACT: The axon initial segment (AIS) is the site of action potential (AP) initiation in most neurons and is thus a critical site in the regulation of neuronal excitability. Normal function within the discrete AIS compartment requires intricate molecular machinery to ensure the proper concentration and organization of voltage-gated and ligand-gated ion channels; in humans, dysfunction at the AIS due to channel mutations is commonly associated with epileptic disorders. In this review, we will examine the molecular mechanisms underlying the formation of the only synapses found at the AIS: synapses containing γ-aminobutyric type A receptors (GABA_ARs). GABA_ARs are heteropentamers assembled from 19 possible subunits and are the primary mediators of fast synaptic inhibition in the

SUBMITTER: Nathanson AJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6848228 | biostudies-literature | 2019

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature