How the Synapse Works

What is it about?

The function of the chemical synapse is central to the communication among neurons that endows the nervous system with its extraordinary capabilities. Previous work demonstrated that presynaptic neurotransmitters stabilize expression of the appropriate postsynaptic receptors. This study demonstrates that postsynaptic neurotransmitter receptors stabilize expression of the appropriate presynaptic neurotransmitter. It shows that the signal from the receptors to the presynaptic neuron is mediated by physical transsynaptic bridges of proteins involving synapse adhesion molecules. These transsynaptic bridges provide an explanation for the precise spatial matching of presynaptic transmitters with their postsynaptic receptors

Featured Image

Photo by Cytonn Photography on Unsplash

Photo by Cytonn Photography on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Knowledge of the function of this receptor-dependent signaling in the nervous system adds significantly to our understanding of synapse stability, function and plasticity. The results of this study reveal the presence of a mutually validating handshake between the presynaptic transmitter and its postsynaptic receptors. The findings may inform studies of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders originating from malfunction of receptor-dependent retrograde signaling.