In:
The Journal of Neuroscience, Society for Neuroscience, Vol. 32, No. 9 ( 2012-02-29), p. 2915-2930
Abstract:
The common neurotransmitter serotonin controls different aspects of early neuronal differentiation, although the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Here we report that activation of the serotonin 5-HT 7 receptor promotes synaptogenesis and enhances synaptic activity in hippocampal neurons at early postnatal stages. An analysis of Gα 12 -deficient mice reveals a critical role of G 12 -protein for 5-HT 7 receptor-mediated effects in neurons. In organotypic preparations from the hippocampus of juvenile mice, stimulation of 5-HT 7 R/G 12 signaling potentiates formation of dendritic spines, increases neuronal excitability, and modulates synaptic plasticity. In contrast, in older neuronal preparations, morphogenetic and synaptogenic effects of 5-HT 7 /G 12 signaling are abolished. Moreover, inhibition of 5-HT 7 receptor had no effect on synaptic plasticity in hippocampus of adult animals. Expression analysis reveals that the production of 5-HT 7 and Gα 12 -proteins in the hippocampus undergoes strong regulation with a pronounced transient increase during early postnatal stages. Thus, regulated expression of 5-HT 7 receptor and Gα 12 -protein may represent a molecular mechanism by which serotonin specifically modulates formation of initial neuronal networks during early postnatal development.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0270-6474
,
1529-2401
DOI:
10.1523/JNEUROSCI.2765-11.2012
Language:
English
Publisher:
Society for Neuroscience
Publication Date:
2012
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1475274-8
SSG:
12