Modulation of an NCAM-Related Adhesion Molecule with Long-Term Synaptic Plasticity in Aplysia

• DOI: 10.1126/science.1585176
• Publication Date: 2006-10-05T23:03:06Z
• Authors: Mark Mayford; Ari Barzilai; Flavio Keller; Samuel Schacher; Eric R. Kandel
• Keywords: Aplysia; Sensory neuron

A form of learning in the marine mollusk Aplysia , long-term sensitization gill- and siphon-withdrawal reflex, results formation new synaptic connections between presynaptic siphon sensory neurons their target cells. These structural changes can be mimicked, when cells are maintained culture, by application serotonin, an endogenous facilitating neurotransmitter . group cell surface proteins, designated adhesion molecules (apCAM's) was down-regulated response to serotonin. The deduced amino acid sequence obtained from complementary DNA clones indicated that apCAM's a family proteins seem arise single gene. members immunoglobulin class resemble two neural molecules, NCAM fasciclin II. In addition regulating newly synthesized apCAM, serotonin also altered amount preexisting apCAM on neurons. By contrast, postsynaptic motor neuron not modulated This rapid, transmitter-mediated down-regulation molecule may one early molecular facilitation.