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Mechanisms of Synapse Formation: Activity-Dependent Selection of Neurotransmitters and Receptors

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Co-Existence and Co-Release of Classical Neurotransmitters

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Abstract

Specification of the neurotransmitters and receptors involved in a synapse is a key feature of development of the nervous system. Multiple mechanisms govern these aspects of neuronal differentiation. Among them electrical activity appears to be an important factor, engaging the functionality of the nervous system right from the beginning of its formation. In the developing Xenopus neuromuscular junction, the specification of neurotransmitters and receptors responds to a selection process that depends on calcium-mediated neuronal activity. This mechanism may provide a level of plasticity that is responsive to changes in environmental cues at very early stages of development.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Physiology & Membrane Biology, University of California Davis School of Medicine and Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospital for Children Northern California, 2425 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento, California 95817

    Laura N. Borodinsky

  2. Neurobiology Section, Division of Biological Sciences and Center for Molecular Genetics, Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093

    Nicholas C. Spitzer

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  1. Laura N. Borodinsky
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  2. Nicholas C. Spitzer
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Correspondence to Laura N. Borodinsky .

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  1. Centro de Investigación y de, Estudios Avanzados, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico, 07000, Mexico

    Rafael Gutierrez

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Borodinsky, L.N., Spitzer, N.C. (2009). Mechanisms of Synapse Formation: Activity-Dependent Selection of Neurotransmitters and Receptors. In: Gutierrez, R. (eds) Co-Existence and Co-Release of Classical Neurotransmitters. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-09622-3_3

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