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Emerging roles for MEF2 in brain development and mental disorders.
Ahlem Assali1, Adam J Harrington1, Christopher W Cowan1
1Departments of Neuroscience and Psychiatry, Medical University of South Carolina, 173 Ashley Avenue, Charleston, SC 29425, USA.
Current Opinion in Neurobiology
|May 27, 2019
Summary
Myocyte enhancer factor 2 (MEF2) transcription factors are crucial for brain development and function. Dysregulation of MEF2 is linked to neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and schizophrenia.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Myocyte enhancer factor 2 (MEF2) transcription factors regulate gene expression critical for tissue development, particularly in the brain.
- MEF2 proteins are influenced by neuronal activity and interact with epigenetic enzymes to modify chromatin structure.
- These factors play roles in both the development and ongoing function of the brain throughout life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent literature on the roles of MEF2 in early brain development and function.
- To highlight the emerging evidence implicating MEF2 in neurodevelopmental disorders and mental illnesses.
- To underscore the significance of MEF2 in understanding brain health and disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent scientific publications.
- Analysis of studies focusing on MEF2 function in brain development.
- Examination of research linking MEF2 to neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions.
Main Results:
- MEF2 transcription factors are essential for early brain development and neuronal function.
- MEF2 proteins are dynamically regulated by synaptic activity and epigenetic modifications.
- Emerging evidence identifies MEF2 as a significant risk factor for autism, intellectual disability, and schizophrenia.
Conclusions:
- MEF2 transcription factors are pivotal for normal brain development and function.
- Dysregulation of MEF2 pathways is associated with several neurodevelopmental disorders and mental illnesses.
- Further research into MEF2 is crucial for understanding and potentially treating these conditions.
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