Altered synaptic plasticity in a mouse model of fragile X mental retardation

KM Huber, SM Gallagher… - Proceedings of the …, 2002 - National Acad Sciences
KM Huber, SM Gallagher, ST Warren, MF Bear
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 2002National Acad Sciences
Fragile X syndrome, the most common inherited form of human mental retardation, is caused
by mutations of the Fmr1 gene that encodes the fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP).
Biochemical evidence indicates that FMRP binds a subset of mRNAs and acts as a regulator
of translation. However, the consequences of FMRP loss on neuronal function in mammals
remain unknown. Here we show that a form of protein synthesis-dependent synaptic
plasticity, long-term depression triggered by activation of metabotropic glutamate receptors …
Fragile X syndrome, the most common inherited form of human mental retardation, is caused by mutations of the Fmr1 gene that encodes the fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP). Biochemical evidence indicates that FMRP binds a subset of mRNAs and acts as a regulator of translation. However, the consequences of FMRP loss on neuronal function in mammals remain unknown. Here we show that a form of protein synthesis-dependent synaptic plasticity, long-term depression triggered by activation of metabotropic glutamate receptors, is selectively enhanced in the hippocampus of mutant mice lacking FMRP. This finding indicates that FMRP plays an important functional role in regulating activity-dependent synaptic plasticity in the brain and suggests new therapeutic approaches for fragile X syndrome.
National Acad Sciences