B-50/GAP-43 in neuronal development and repair

The protein kinase C substrate B-50 is identical to the growth-associated protein GAP-43. Although as yet no causal relationship has been established between B-50/GAP-43 and neurite outgrowth, evidence accumulates that the function of the protein relates to neuronal plasticity. Stimulation of PC12 cells by NGF results in translocation of the protein from cytosolic stores to the membrane of newly formed neurite-like extensions. The protein is associated with the inner leaflet of the growth cone membrane isolated from neonatal rat brain and was used as a marker to study the development of the rat pyramidical tract and olfactory system. In the adult rat, crush lesion of the sciatic nerve results in a rapid expression of B-50/GAP-43 mRNA followed by synthesis of B-50/GAP-43 protein in dorsal root ganglia and transport of the protein into the newly formed sprouts. Presumably, the neurotrophic effect of melanocortins on peripheral nerve repair is not brought about by enhancement of B-50/GAP-43 synthesis per se. Bulbectomy (central) or Triton X-100 lesioning (peripheral) of the olfactory epithelium results in a differential expression of B-50/GAP-43 and the olfactory marker protein characterizing two stages in the regeneration of this epithelium. Evidence that the degree of phosphorylation may co-determine the role of B-50/GAP-43 in neurite outgrowth is discussed.