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- Title
The impact of MeCP2 loss- or gain-of-function on synaptic plasticity.
- Authors
Na, Elisa S; Nelson, Erika D; Kavalali, Ege T; Monteggia, Lisa M
- Abstract
Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is a transcriptional regulator of gene expression that is an important epigenetic factor in the maintenance and development of the central nervous system. The neurodevelopmental disorders Rett syndrome and MECP2 duplication syndrome arise from loss-of-function and gain-of-function alterations in MeCP2 expression, respectively. Several animal models have been developed to recapitulate the symptoms of Rett syndrome and MECP2 duplication syndrome. Cell morphology, neurotransmission, and cellular processes that support learning and memory are compromised as a result of MeCP2 loss- or gain-of-function. Interestingly, loss-of-MeCP2 function and MeCP2 overexpression trigger diametrically opposite changes in synaptic transmission. These findings indicate that the precise regulation of MeCP2 expression is a key requirement for the maintenance of synaptic and neuronal homeostasis and underscore its importance in central nervous system function. This review highlights the functional role of MeCP2 in the brain as a regulator of synaptic and neuronal plasticity as well as its etiological role in the development of Rett syndrome and MECP2 duplication syndrome.
- Publication
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology, 2013, Vol 38, Issue 1, p212
- ISSN
1740-634X
- Publication type
Journal Article
- DOI
10.1038/npp.2012.116