Myosin IIb Regulates actin dynamics during synaptic plasticity and memory formation

Christopher S. Rex, Cristin F. Gavin, Maria D. Rubio, Eniko A. Kramar, Lulu Y. Chen, Yousheng Jia, Richard L. Huganir, Nicholas Muzyczka, Christine M. Gall, Courtney A. Miller, Gary Lynch, Gavin Rumbaugh

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

151 Scopus citations

Abstract

Reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton is essential for synaptic plasticity and memory formation. Presently, the mechanisms that trigger actin dynamics during these brain processes are poorly understood. In this study, we show that myosin II motor activity is downstream of LTP induction and is necessary for the emergence of specialized actin structures that stabilize an early phase of LTP. We also demonstrate that myosin II activity contributes importantly to an actin-dependent process that underlies memory consolidation. Pharmacological treatments that promote actin polymerization reversed the effects of a myosin II inhibitor on LTP and memory. We conclude that myosin II motors regulate plasticity by imparting mechanical forces onto the spine actin cytoskeleton in response to synaptic stimulation. These cytoskeletal forces trigger the emergence of actin structures that stabilize synaptic plasticity. Our studies provide a mechanical framework for understanding cytoskeletal dynamics associated with synaptic plasticity and memory formation.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)603-617
Number of pages15
JournalNeuron
Volume67
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 2010

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Neuroscience

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