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Microtubules associated with postsynaptic 'thickenings'.

L E Westrum, E G Gray

    Journal of Neurocytology
    |October 1, 1977
    PubMed
    Summary
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    A new albumin technique reveals microtubules within central nervous synapses. This suggests microtubules and smooth endoplasmic reticulum (ER) may be crucial for synapse formation and maintenance.

    Area of Science:

    • Neuroscience
    • Cell Biology

    Background:

    • Synapses are crucial for neural communication.
    • The composition and role of the postsynaptic density are not fully understood.
    • Microtubules' direct association with postsynaptic structures has been difficult to visualize.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the association of microtubules with the postsynaptic density using a novel technique.
    • To explore the potential role of microtubules and smooth endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in synapse development and maintenance.

    Main Methods:

    • Utilized a new albumin-based fixation technique for electron microscopy.
    • Examined microtubules and smooth ER in relation to the postsynaptic thickening in central nervous synapses (both mature and immature).

    Related Experiment Videos

    Main Results:

    • Microtubules were observed directly associated with the postsynaptic thickening in synapses treated with the albumin technique.
    • In conventionally fixed synapses, microtubules were not clearly seen within the postsynaptic dense material, suggesting it may contain microtubule debris.
    • Smooth endoplasmic reticulum (ER) was frequently observed near microtubules adjacent to the postsynaptic thickening.

    Conclusions:

    • The postsynaptic dense material may partly consist of in vivo microtubule remnants.
    • Microtubules and potentially smooth ER play significant roles in initiating synapse formation.
    • Microtubules and smooth ER are likely important for maintaining mature synapses.