Translational regulation of synaptic plasticity

Charles A. Hoeffer, Emanuela Santini, Eric Klann

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Synaptic plasticity defines the process by which synapses, the connections between neurons, can be modified in response to activity. Plasticity can be either positive or negative, with strengthening and weakening of synapses occurring with distinct patterns of activity (neuronal "experience"). These plastic changes can be transient (lasting seconds to minutes) or can persist for days to months. Long-lasting forms of synaptic plasticity are supported by the de novo synthesis of macromolecules. This process can be broadly divided into transcription of DNA into new messenger RNAs and translation of mRNAs into new proteins. A very useful experimental platform for studying these processes is the rodent ex vivo hippocampal slice preparation. Hippocampal slices can be utilized for pharmacological, biochemical, and electrophysiological experiments aimed at studying mechanisms upstream and downstream of the macromolecular synthesis underlying persistent synaptic plasticity.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationMultidisciplinary Tools for Investigating Synaptic Plasticity
PublisherHumana Press Inc.
Pages93-124
Number of pages32
ISBN (Print)9781627035163
DOIs
StatePublished - 2013

Publication series

NameNeuromethods
Volume81
ISSN (Print)0893-2336
ISSN (Electronic)1940-6045

Keywords

  • Extracellular recording
  • LTD
  • LTP
  • Synaptic plasticity
  • Translation

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Neuroscience(all)
  • Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology(all)
  • Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics(all)
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Translational regulation of synaptic plasticity'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this