Loss of PLA2G4E compromises synaptic structure and cognitive outcomes in mice

Given its potential role in supporting cognitive resilience, PLA2G4E has emerged as a compelling therapeutic target in the context of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, its physiological functions in the central nervous system remain largely unexplored. In this study, we demonstrate that Pla2g4e expression peaks during early postnatal brain development, coinciding with the rapid formation of synapses. Loss-of-function experiments in primary neuronal cultures revealed that Pla2g4e expression is essential for proper dendritic development and neuronal maturation. In constitutive Pla2g4e knockout mice, we observed significant disruptions in the developmental profiles of cortical synaptic plasticity markers, accompanied by impairments in memory-related behaviors. Notably, the adeno-associated virus-mediated overexpression of PLA2G4E rescued memory deficits, highlighting its functional relevance in cognitive processes. Furthermore, selective deletion of Pla2g4e in excitatory neurons of the adult brain resulted in moderate memory impairments in aged animals, suggesting an ongoing role in synaptic maintenance. Together, these findings establish PLA2G4E as a key regulator of dendritic architecture, synaptic function, and cognitive performance, and highlight its potential as a gene therapy target for neurodegenerative diseases characterized by synaptic dysfunction.