Distinct roles of nerve and muscle in postsynaptic differentiation of the neuromuscular synapse

Article Abstract:

Research into the initial stages of postsynaptic differentiation is discussed. Particular focus is given to the role of the synapse-specific cytoplasmic protein rapsyn and muscle-specific kinase.

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Failure of postsynaptic specialization to develop at neuromuscular junctions of rapsyn-deficient mice

Article Abstract:

Genetic evidence shows that rapsyn is required for the formation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (AChR) clusters at the developing vertebrate neuromuscular junction, indicating their critical role for organization of the postsynaptic cytoskeleton. The failure of several components of the AChR-associated cytoskeleton to concentrate at mutant synaptic sites suggests the existence of a second, rapsyn-independent synaptic scaffold. The presynaptic abnormalities provided the starting point for seeking target-derived determinants of axonal arborization.

Cytoskeleton, Acetylcholine, Acetylcholine receptors, Neuromuscular junction, Nicotinic receptors

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Synaptic laminin prevents glial entry into the synaptic cleft

Article Abstract:

The opposing positions of pre- and post-synaptic membranes at chemical synapses reduce the delay in transmitting information across the synaptic cleft. Extrasynaptic neuronal surfaces are almost covered by processes from glial cells. The tight adhesion between pre- and post-synaptic elements may result from the exclusion of glial cells from the synaptic cleft. A new study investigates how synaptic laminin prevents glial entry into the synaptic cleft.

Neuroglia, Glia, Laminin

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