Nitric Oxide Signaling Strengthens Inhibitory Synapses of Cerebellar Molecular Layer Interneurons through a GABARAP-Dependent Mechanism.

ABSTRACT: Nitric oxide (NO) is an important signaling molecule that fulfills diverse functional roles as a neurotransmitter or diffusible second messenger in the developing and adult CNS. Although the impact of NO on different behaviors such as movement, sleep, learning, and memory has been well documented, the identity of its molecular and cellular targets is still an area of ongoing investigation. Here, we identify a novel role for NO in strengthening inhibitory GABAA receptor-mediated transmission in molecular layer interneurons of the mouse cerebellum. NO levels are elevated by the activity of neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) following Ca2+ entry through extrasynaptic NMDA-type ionotropic glutamate receptors (NMDARs). NO activates protein kinase G with the subsequent production of cGMP, which prompts

SUBMITTER: Larson EA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7178912 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature