Myosin IIb Regulates Actin Dynamics During Synaptic Plasticity and Memory Formation

Overview

Journal Neuron

Publisher Cell Press

Specialty Neurology

Date 2010 Aug 28

PMID 20797537

Citations 117

Authors

Christopher S Rex

Cristin F Gavin

Maria D Rubio

Eniko A Kramar

Lulu Y Chen

Yousheng Jia

Richard L Huganir

Nicholas Muzyczka

Christine M Gall

Courtney A Miller

Gary Lynch

Gavin Rumbaugh

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton is essential for synaptic plasticity and memory formation. Presently, the mechanisms that trigger actin dynamics during these brain processes are poorly understood. In this study, we show that myosin II motor activity is downstream of LTP induction and is necessary for the emergence of specialized actin structures that stabilize an early phase of LTP. We also demonstrate that myosin II activity contributes importantly to an actin-dependent process that underlies memory consolidation. Pharmacological treatments that promote actin polymerization reversed the effects of a myosin II inhibitor on LTP and memory. We conclude that myosin II motors regulate plasticity by imparting mechanical forces onto the spine actin cytoskeleton in response to synaptic stimulation. These cytoskeletal forces trigger the emergence of actin structures that stabilize synaptic plasticity. Our studies provide a mechanical framework for understanding cytoskeletal dynamics associated with synaptic plasticity and memory formation.

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