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Synaptically Localized Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases: Local Substrates and Regulation
Li-Min Mao1, John Q Wang2,3,4
1Department of Basic Medical Science, School of Medicine, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, 64108, USA.
Molecular Neurobiology
|November 15, 2015
Summary
Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in neurons regulate synaptic plasticity. Active MAPKs at synapses phosphorylate local substrates, influencing synaptic strength and function.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are crucial intracellular signaling regulators found in postmitotic neurons.
- MAPKs, particularly extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs), are located in dendritic spines and synapses, including the postsynaptic density (PSD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in the cell biology of synaptic MAPKs.
- To analyze the role of peripheral MAPK pools in regulating local synaptic substrates and plasticity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on synaptic MAPK localization and function.
- Analysis of identified MAPK substrates at synaptic sites.
- Discussion of phosphorylation events modulating substrate function and synaptic transmission.
Main Results:
- Peripheral MAPKs/ERKs are constitutively active or responsive to synaptic input.
- Active MAPKs directly phosphorylate synaptic substrates like PSD-95, PSD-93, δ-catenin, Kv4.2 channels, and mGluRs.
- Phosphorylation rapidly alters substrate trafficking and distribution, modulating synaptic function and plasticity.
Conclusions:
- Synaptic MAPKs play a critical role in regulating local substrates and contributing to long-lasting synaptic plasticity.
- The phosphorylation activity of MAPKs on specific substrates is a key mechanism for modulating synaptic strength.
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