Distinct Subunit Domains Govern Synaptic Stability and Specificity of the Kainate Receptor

Christoph Straub, Yoav Noam, Toshihiro Nomura, Miwako Yamasaki, Dan Yan, Herman B. Fernandes, Ping Zhang, James R. Howe, Masahiko Watanabe, Anis Contractor, Susumu Tomita*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

27 Scopus citations

Abstract

Synaptic communication between neurons requires the precise localization of neurotransmitter receptors to the correct synapse type. Kainate-type glutamate receptors restrict synaptic localization that is determined by the afferent presynaptic connection. The mechanisms that govern this input-specific synaptic localization remain unclear. Here, we examine how subunit composition and specific subunit domains contribute to synaptic localization of kainate receptors. The cytoplasmic domain of the GluK2 low-affinity subunit stabilizes kainate receptors at synapses. In contrast, the extracellular domain of the GluK4/5 high-affinity subunit synergistically controls the synaptic specificity of kainate receptors through interaction with C1q-like proteins. Thus, the input-specific synaptic localization of the native kainate receptor complex involves two mechanisms that underlie specificity and stabilization of the receptor at synapses.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)531-544
Number of pages14
JournalCell reports
Volume16
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 12 2016

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology(all)

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