کد مقاله | کد نشریه | سال انتشار | مقاله انگلیسی | نسخه تمام متن |
---|---|---|---|---|
4321610 | 1291635 | 2010 | 13 صفحه PDF | دانلود رایگان |
![عکس صفحه اول مقاله: Ephexin1 Is Required for Structural Maturation and Neurotransmission at the Neuromuscular Junction Ephexin1 Is Required for Structural Maturation and Neurotransmission at the Neuromuscular Junction](/preview/png/4321610.png)
SummaryThe maturation of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) requires the topological transformation of postsynaptic acetylcholine receptor (AChR)-containing structures from a simple plaque to an elaborate structure composed of pretzel-like branches. This maturation process results in the precise apposition of the presynaptic and postsynaptic specializations. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying the plaque-to-pretzel transition of AChR clusters. In this study, we identify an essential role for the RhoGEF ephexin1 in the maturation of AChR clusters. Adult ephexin1−/− mice exhibit severe muscle weakness and impaired synaptic transmission at the NMJ. Intriguingly, when ephexin1 expression is deficient in vivo, the NMJ fails to mature into the pretzel-like shape, and such abnormalities can be rescued by re-expression of ephexin1. We further demonstrate that ephexin1 regulates the stability of AChR clusters in a RhoA-dependent manner. Taken together, our findings reveal an indispensible role for ephexin1 in regulating the structural maturation and neurotransmission of NMJs.
► Ephexin1 is essential for synaptic transmission and muscle function at NMJs
► Ephexin1 is required for the topological transformation of AChR clusters
► Ephexin1 regulates the stability of AChR clusters through activation of RhoA
► Ephexin1 directs synapse maturation and maintenance in a RhoA-dependent manner
Journal: - Volume 65, Issue 2, 28 January 2010, Pages 204–216