[HTML][HTML] Structural plasticity of dendritic spines: the underlying mechanisms and its dysregulation in brain disorders

KO Lai, NY Ip - Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA)-Molecular Basis …, 2013 - Elsevier
Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA)-Molecular Basis of Disease, 2013Elsevier
Dendritic spines are specialized structures on neuronal processes where the majority of
excitatory synapses are localized. Spines are highly dynamic, and their stabilization and
morphology are influenced by synaptic activity. This extrinsic regulation of spine
morphogenesis underlies experience-dependent brain development and information
storage within the brain circuitry. In this review, we summarize recent findings that
demonstrate the phenomenon of activity-dependent structural plasticity and the molecular …
Abstract
Dendritic spines are specialized structures on neuronal processes where the majority of excitatory synapses are localized. Spines are highly dynamic, and their stabilization and morphology are influenced by synaptic activity. This extrinsic regulation of spine morphogenesis underlies experience-dependent brain development and information storage within the brain circuitry. In this review, we summarize recent findings that demonstrate the phenomenon of activity-dependent structural plasticity and the molecular mechanisms by which synaptic activity sculpt neuronal connections. Impaired structural plasticity is associated with perturbed brain function in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism. Information from the mechanistic studies therefore provides important insights into the design of therapeutic strategies for these brain disorders.
Elsevier