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Receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase sigma regulates synapse structure, function and plasticity
Katherine E Horn1, Bin Xu, Delphine Gobert
1Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Journal of Neurochemistry
|April 24, 2012
Summary
Receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase sigma (RPTPσ) limits synapse formation in the mature brain, influencing neural circuitry, synaptic structure, and memory. Its absence leads to increased branching and altered synaptic function.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Synaptic Plasticity
Background:
- Synapse formation and maintenance mechanisms are not fully understood.
- Few inhibitors of synapse formation have been identified.
- Receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase sigma (RPTPσ) is expressed in the brain and inhibits axon regeneration.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the function of RPTPσ in the mature mammalian brain.
- Determine RPTPσ's role in regulating neural circuitry and synapse formation.
Main Methods:
- Utilized RPTPσ null mice.
- Performed in vitro and in vivo analyses of neural structure and function.
- Assessed synaptic density, electrophysiology, and memory performance.
Main Results:
- RPTPσ null mice showed increased axon collateral branching and synapse density.
- Electrophysiological studies revealed altered synaptic function and efficiency.
- RPTPσ deficiency resulted in reduced long-term potentiation and enhanced memory recall.
Conclusions:
- RPTPσ acts as an inhibitor of synapse number in the mature central nervous system.
- RPTPσ regulates synapse structure, function, and impacts cognitive processes like memory.
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