Activity-dependent synaptic Wnt release regulates hippocampal long term potentiation

J Biol Chem. 2006 Apr 28;281(17):11910-6. doi: 10.1074/jbc.M511920200. Epub 2006 Feb 24.

Abstract

Wnts are important for various developmental and oncogenic processes. Here we show that Wnt signaling functions at synapses in hippocampal neurons. Tetanic stimulations induce N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor-dependent synaptic Wnt3a release, nuclear beta-catenin accumulations, and the activation of Wnt target genes. Suppression of Wnt signaling impairs long term potentiation. Conversely, activation of Wnt signaling facilitates long term potentiation. These findings suggest that Wnt signaling plays a critical role in regulating synaptic plasticity.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Action Potentials
  • Animals
  • Cell Nucleus / metabolism
  • Hippocampus / metabolism
  • Long-Term Potentiation*
  • Mice
  • Neurons / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction*
  • Synaptic Transmission*
  • Wnt Proteins / metabolism*
  • Wnt3 Protein
  • Wnt3A Protein
  • beta Catenin / metabolism*

Substances

  • Wnt Proteins
  • Wnt3 Protein
  • Wnt3A Protein
  • Wnt3a protein, mouse
  • beta Catenin