![Strengthening and Weakening Neuronal Connections]()
Neurons communicate with each other via release of neurotransmitter molecules at synaptic connections. By changing the amount of neurotransmitter released per electrical impulse the brain can strengthen or weaken connections between neurons--a phenomenon known as plasticity. Synaptic plasticity underlies critical brain functions like learning and memory and is disrupted in diseases like autism, schizophrenia, dementia and drug addiction. Protein synthesis is required for plasticity, but it is not clear where those proteins are made. In a study published in the October 19 issue of Neuron, Pablo E. Castillo, M.D., Ph.D., and colleagues provide the first demonstration that long-term plasticity in the mammalian brain depends on local protein synthesis in the presynaptic compartment. These findings shed light on the cellular mechanisms that mediate learning and memory. The co-first authors, Thomas J. Younts and Hannah R. Monday, are former and current Ph.D. candidates, respectively, in Dr. Castillo’s laboratory. Dr. Castillo is a professor in the Dominick P. Pupura Department of Neuroscience and the Harold and Muriel Block Chair in Neuroscience.
Posted on: Thursday, October 27, 2016