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”.
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.
The
team gathered quantitative and qualitative information about the
network of molecules regulated at synapses and examined their lipid
metabolism, also under the influence of an enriched environment.
The
analyses revealed that 178 proteins and 20 lipids were significantly
regulated depending on whether the rodents had spent time in an enriched
environment or an uncomfortable one.
Molecular explanation for positive effects
The
regulations were characterized by specific lipids as well as proteins
of the organisms’ endocannabinoid metabolism, which was particularly
strongly influenced by the sensory impressions of an enriched
environment.
If
the information arrives at the synapse as a signal, signal processing
is enhanced, which ultimately leads to improved learning and
development. In this context, the complex networks of lipids and
proteins had a decisive effect on the functioning of the synapses. Thus,
the current study provides a molecular explanation for why an enhancing
stimulating environment can have a positive effect on neuronal
plasticity and brain development.
About this neuroscience research news
Author: Veronika Schallhart
Source: University of Vienna
Contact: Veronika Schallhart – University of Vienna
Image: The image is in the public domain
Original Research: Open access.
“Multiomics of synaptic junctions reveals altered lipid metabolism and signaling following environmental enrichment” by Robert Ahrends et al. Cell Reports
