Translation Control: Signaling, Synapses, Behavior, and Neurological Disorders

Dr. Klann is a Professor of Neural Science at the NYU Center for Neural Science and will be hosted by Dr. Doug Cavener Abstract Multiple studies have shown that de novo protein synthesis is required to trigger long-lasting synaptic plasticity and long-term memory. Our laboratory has identified signaling cascades that couple neurotransmitter receptors to the translation regulatory machinery in the hippocampus during synaptic plasticity and memory formation. Interestingly, mutations in several negative regulators of translation initiation cause mental retardation syndromes and autism, including fragile X syndrome and tuberous sclerosis. Moreover, altered translation control appears to be involved in diverse neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia. I will discuss studies from our laboratory characterizing mutant mice that lack negative modulators of translation and how these mutations alter translation, synaptic function, and behavior. These studies have revealed interesting links among the biochemical activities of translation factors, synaptic plasticity, and behavior, and provide insight into the molecular basis of brain disorders.

Contact

  Stephanie Gookin
  sjgookin@psu.edu
  814-865-4562