Actin in dendritic spines: connecting dynamics to function

J Cell Biol. 2010 May 17;189(4):619-29. doi: 10.1083/jcb.201003008. Epub 2010 May 10.

Abstract

Dendritic spines are small actin-rich protrusions from neuronal dendrites that form the postsynaptic part of most excitatory synapses and are major sites of information processing and storage in the brain. Changes in the shape and size of dendritic spines are correlated with the strength of excitatory synaptic connections and heavily depend on remodeling of its underlying actin cytoskeleton. Emerging evidence suggests that most signaling pathways linking synaptic activity to spine morphology influence local actin dynamics. Therefore, specific mechanisms of actin regulation are integral to the formation, maturation, and plasticity of dendritic spines and to learning and memory.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Actins / metabolism*
  • Animals
  • Dendritic Spines / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological
  • Neuronal Plasticity / physiology
  • Signal Transduction
  • Synapses / metabolism

Substances

  • Actins