Hardwiring the Brain: Endocannabinoids Shape Neuronal Connectivity

• DOI: 10.1126/science.1137406
• Publication Date: 2007-05-25T10:36:02Z
• Authors: Paul Berghuis; Ann M. Rajnicek; Yury M. Morozov; Ruth A. Ross; Jan Mulder; Gabriella M. Urbán; Krisztina Monory; Giovanni Marsicano; Michela Matteoli; Alison Canty; Andrew J. Irving; István Katona; Yuchio Yanagawa; Pasko Rakic; Beat Lutz; Ken Mackie; Tibor Harkany
• Keywords: Synaptogenesis

The roles of endocannabinoid signaling during central nervous system development are unknown. We report that CB 1 cannabinoid receptors (CB Rs) enriched in the axonal growth cones γ-aminobutyric acid–containing (GABAergic) interneurons rodent cortex late gestation. Endocannabinoids trigger R internalization and elimination from filopodia induce chemorepulsion collapse these GABAergic by activating RhoA. Similarly, endocannabinoids diminish galvanotropism Xenopus laevis spinal neurons. These findings, together with impaired target selection cortical lacking Rs, identify as axon guidance cues demonstrate regulates synaptogenesis vivo.