Summary:Post-genomic
analysis of the regulation of synapses in a rodent hippocampus sheds
new light on the interaction of proteins and lipids within the synaptic
membrane.
Source:University of Vienna
“We
usually enjoy a beautiful environment, socializing, a cosy apartment,
good restaurants, a park – all this inspires us,” says Robert Ahrends
from the Institute of Analytical Chemistry of the University of Vienna
and former group leader at ISAS in Dortmund.
Previous
studies have already shown that such an enriched environment can
sometimes have a positive effect on child development or even on the
human ability to regenerate, e.g. after a stroke, however the reason for
these observations “was not yet clarified at the molecular level”.
Stimulating
sensory perceptions are ultimately formed via the activity or
regulation of synapses, i.e. those connecting units between our neurons
that transfer information from one nerve cell to another. To clarify the
underlying molecular principles, the researchers offered the rodents,
their model organisms, an enriched environment based on plenty of room
to move, a running wheel and other toys.
With
the help of post-genomic analysis strategies (multiomics) and using
state-of-the-art mass spectrometry and microscopy as well as
bioinformatics for data analysis, they investigated the regulation of
synapses in the hippocampus of the rodents, more precisely the
interaction of the proteins and especially lipids (fats) located in the
synaptic membranes.
Synapses as central sites of signal transmission
“80
percent of the brain cells are only supporting cells. We have therefore
focused on the synapses as central sites of signal transmission and
isolated them,” says neuroscientist Michael Kreutz.