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Updated: May 27, 2026

Light-mediated Reversible Modulation of the Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase Pathway during Cell Differentiation and Xenopus Embryonic Development
Published on: June 15, 2017
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
Abstract:
Src family kinases (SFKs) are non-receptor-type protein tyrosine kinases that were originally identified as the products of proto-oncogenes and were subsequently implicated in the regulation of cell proliferation and differentiation in the developing mammalian brain. Recent studies using transgenic mouse models have demonstrated that SFKs that are highly expressed in the adult brain regulate neuronal plasticity and behavior through tyrosine phosphorylation of key substrates such as neurotransmitter receptors. Here, we provide an overview of these recent studies, as well as discussing how modulation of the endocytosis of neurotransmitter receptors by SFKs contributes, in part, to this regulation. Deregulation of SFK-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of such substrates might underlie certain brain disorders.
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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