Epigenetic Basis of Neuronal and Synaptic Plasticity

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Epigenetics
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Neuronal networks and plasticity are dynamic, adapting to experience.
• Environmental factors can induce long-lasting gene expression changes, potentially leading to brain disorders.
• Epigenetic modifications are crucial mediators of gene-environment interactions in the brain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advances in understanding epigenetic mechanisms regulating neuronal plasticity.
• To explore the role of epigenetic players in activity-dependent neural and synaptic plasticity.
• To discuss the implications of epigenetic dysregulation in various brain disorders.

Main Methods:

• Focus on DNA methylation/demethylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodelers, transposons, and non-coding RNAs.
• Examines transcriptional and post-transcriptional gene regulation, including alternative splicing and RNA stability.
• Reviews epigenetic contributions to neurodevelopmental, stress-related, and neurodegenerative disorders.

Main Results:

• Epigenetic machinery profoundly influences neuronal plasticity and gene expression.
• Aberrant epigenetic programming is linked to conditions like Rett syndrome, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's disease.
• Pharmacological agents targeting epigenetic pathways show therapeutic potential.

Conclusions:

• Epigenetic modifications are central to experience-dependent neuronal plasticity.
• Dysregulation of these epigenetic processes contributes to a spectrum of brain disorders.
• Targeting epigenetic mechanisms offers promising therapeutic avenues for neurological and psychiatric conditions.