Synapse-specific plasticity in command neurons during learning of edible snails under the action of caspase...

The effect of caspase inhibitors on long-term synaptic facilitation induced by nociceptive sensitization (a simple form of learning) was studied on the defensive behavior command neurons (left pleural neuron-1) in edible snail. Acquisition of sensitization under conditions of threatment with caspase-3 or caspase-8 inhibitors selectively inhibits synaptic transmission in the responses of the left pleural neuron-1 to tactile stimulation of the snail head, but not in responses to chemical stimulation of the head or tactile stimulation of the foot. Application of a wide-spectrum caspase inhibitor z-VAD-fmk to neurons of sensitized snails suppressed facilitation of responses evoked by chemical stimulation of the head. Probably, various caspases could be selectively involved into induction of long-term synapse-specific plasticity during learning.