Src family kinases: modulators of neurotransmitter receptor function and behavior

Hiroshi Ohnishi1, Yoji Murata, Hideki Okazawa

  • 1Laboratory of Biosignal Sciences, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, 3-39-15 Showa-Machi, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8512, Japan. ohnishih@gunma-u.ac.jp

Trends in Neurosciences
|November 5, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Src family kinases (SFKs) regulate adult brain function by controlling neurotransmitter receptor activity. Dysregulation of these protein tyrosine kinases may contribute to brain disorders.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Molecular Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Src family kinases (SFKs) are protein tyrosine kinases implicated in cell proliferation and differentiation.
  • SFKs are highly expressed in the adult mammalian brain, regulating neuronal plasticity and behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an overview of recent studies on SFKs in the adult brain.
  • To discuss the role of SFK-mediated modulation of neurotransmitter receptor endocytosis in neuronal regulation.

Main Methods:

  • Review of recent studies using transgenic mouse models.
  • Analysis of SFK substrates, including neurotransmitter receptors.
  • Investigation of tyrosine phosphorylation events.

Main Results:

  • SFKs regulate adult brain neuronal plasticity and behavior.
  • Tyrosine phosphorylation of neurotransmitter receptors by SFKs is a key mechanism.
  • SFK-modulated endocytosis of neurotransmitter receptors contributes to neuronal regulation.

Conclusions:

  • SFKs play a critical role in adult brain function.
  • Dysregulation of SFK-dependent signaling may underlie certain brain disorders.

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