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AMPA receptor-PDZ interactions in facilitation of spinal sensory synapses NATURE NEUROSCIENCE Li, P., Kerchner, G. A., Sala, C., Wei, F., Huettner, J. E., Sheng, M., Zhuo, M. 1999; 2 (11): 972-977

Abstract

Silent synapses form between some primary sensory afferents and dorsal horn neurons in the spinal cord. Molecular mechanisms for activation or conversion of silent synapses to conducting synapses are unknown. Serotonin can trigger activation of silent synapses in dorsal horn neurons by recruiting AMPA receptors. AMPA-receptor subunits GluR2 and GluR3 interact via their cytoplasmic C termini with PDZ-domain-containing proteins such as GRIP (glutamate receptor interacting protein), but the functional significance of these interactions is unclear. Here we demonstrate that protein interactions involving the GluR2/3 C terminus are important for serotonin-induced activation of silent synapses in the spinal cord. Furthermore, PKC is a necessary and sufficient trigger for this activation. These results implicate AMPA receptor-PDZ interactions in mechanisms underlying sensory synaptic potentiation and provide insights into the pathogenesis of chronic pain.

View details for Web of Science ID 000083883300013

View details for PubMedID 10526335