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Modified Glutamatergic Postsynapse in Neurodegenerative Disorders
Bruno José Moraes1, Patrícia Coelho1, Lígia Fão2
1Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra (CNC-UC), Coimbra, Portugal.
Neuroscience
|December 31, 2019
Summary
The postsynaptic density (PSD) is crucial for brain cell communication and plasticity. This review details PSD proteins and their alterations in neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The postsynaptic density (PSD) is a vital protein complex at excitatory synapses, essential for neuronal signaling and plasticity.
- It forms a network beneath the postsynaptic membrane, regulating synaptic function.
- Dysfunction in PSD morphology and signaling is implicated in neurodegenerative disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the key protein components of the PSD and their functions.
- To explore the modifications of PSD architecture in Huntington's, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on PSD composition and function.
- Analysis of studies investigating PSD alterations in neurodegenerative disease models and patient data.
Main Results:
- Detailed description of major PSD protein players and their roles in synaptic transmission and plasticity.
- Identification of specific PSD component alterations in Huntington's, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's diseases.
Conclusions:
- The PSD is a dynamic structure critical for maintaining healthy synaptic function.
- Aberrant PSD structure and signaling are significant contributors to the pathogenesis of major neurodegenerative diseases.
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