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Target-dependent structural changes accompanying long-term synaptic facilitation in Aplysia neurons
D L Glanzman1, E R Kandel, S Schacher
1Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY 10032.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|August 17, 1990
Summary
Structural changes in Aplysia sensory neurons, crucial for learning and memory, were observed. Repeated serotonin application induced neuron growth, requiring postsynaptic motor neuron interaction for long-term synaptic enhancement.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Investigating structural changes in learning and memory within intact nervous systems is challenging.
- Aplysia sensory neurons offer a model system to study these mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms underlying structural changes associated with learning and memory.
- To determine the role of serotonin and postsynaptic interaction in synaptic plasticity.
Main Methods:
- Utilized dissociated Aplysia sensory neuron cell cultures.
- Employed low-light-level video microscopy for observation.
- Examined neurons with and without their target motor neurons.
Main Results:
- Repeated serotonin application induced significant growth in sensory neurons.
- This growth paralleled long-term enhancement of synaptic strength.
- Sensory neuron growth and synaptic facilitation required the presence of the postsynaptic motor neuron.
Conclusions:
- Structural and synaptic changes accompanying long-term behavioral sensitization in Aplysia can be replicated in vitro.
- Repeated application of serotonin can induce these changes.
- These structural modifications are dependent on the interaction between presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons.