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Modulation of NMDA receptor function: implications for vertebrate neural development
A J Scheetz1, M Constantine-Paton
1Department of Biology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511.
Summary
The N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor regulates synapse stabilization in the developing brain. Activity-dependent changes in NMDA receptor function may offer new strategies for brain repair after injury.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Synaptic Plasticity
Background:
- The N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor is crucial for synaptic plasticity and development.
- NMDA receptor function is implicated in synapse elimination and sensory map formation.
- Elevated NMDA receptor activity is observed during critical periods of synaptic rearrangement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a corollary to the NMDA receptor hypothesis for activity-dependent synapse stabilization.
- To explore the role of NMDA receptor subunit composition in synaptic plasticity.
- To investigate the potential of NMDA receptor regulation for adult brain repair.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes existing research on NMDA receptor function during brain development.
- It discusses the proposed feedback system linking synaptic activity to NMDA receptor subunit changes.
- The review examines the implications of developmental NMDA receptor expression for adult plasticity.
Main Results:
- Increased neuronal activity leads to greater postsynaptic Ca2+ influx via NMDA receptors.
- This Ca2+ influx may trigger a feedback mechanism altering NMDA receptor subunit composition.
- Altered NMDA receptor effectiveness correlates with changes in neuronal activity.
Conclusions:
- NMDA receptor function is dynamically regulated by neuronal activity during development.
- Developmental NMDA receptor subunit combinations may facilitate synaptic rearrangement in the adult brain.
- Understanding NMDA receptor regulation offers potential therapeutic avenues for brain damage.