A multi-omics view of neuronal subcellular protein synthesis

While it has long been known that protein synthesis is necessary for long-term memory in the brain, the logistics of neuronal protein synthesis is complicated by the extensive subcellular compartmentalization of the neuron. Local protein synthesis solves many of the logistic problems posed by the extreme complexity of dendritic and axonal arbors and the huge number of synapses. Here we review recent multi-omic and quantitative studies that elaborate a systems view of decentralized neuronal protein synthesis. We highlight recent insights from the transcriptomic, translatomic, and proteomic levels, discuss the nuanced logic of local protein synthesis for different protein features, and list the missing information needed to build a comprehensive logistic model for neuronal protein supply.