Abstract
The synapse-specific synthesis of the acetylcholine receptor (AChR) is mediated by multiple mechanisms including compartmentalized signaling induced by neuregulin (NRG). This paper presents evidence that NRG receptors - ErbB receptor tyrosine kinases interact with distinct PDZ domain-containing proteins that are localized at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). ErbB4 associates with the PSD-95 (also known as SAP90)-family members including PSD-95, SAP97, and SAP102 whereas ErbB2 interacts with Erbin and PICK1. Although, ErbB kinases are concentrated at the NMJ, they are not colocalized with the AChR in cultured muscle cells even in the presence of agrin. Co-expression of PSD-95 causes ErbB4 to form clusters in COS cells. We propose that PDZ domain-containing proteins play a role in anchoring ErbB proteins at the neuromuscular junction, and/or mediating downstream signaling pathways. Such mechanisms could be important for the maintenance and function of the synapse.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 173-185 |
Number of pages | 13 |
Journal | International Journal of Developmental Neuroscience |
Volume | 20 |
Issue number | 3-5 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2002 |
Keywords
- Acetylcholine receptor
- Neuregulin
- Neuromuscular junction
- Synapse
- Synaptogenesis
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Developmental Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology