Dendritic spine morphogenesis and plasticity

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2005

Abstract

Dendritic spines are small protrusions off the dendrite that receive excitatory synaptic input. Spines vary in size, likely correlating with the strength of the synapses they form. In the developing brain, spines show highly dynamic behavior thought to facilitate the formation of new synaptic contacts. Recent studies have illuminated the numerous molecules regulating spine development, many of which converge on the regulation of actin filaments. In addition, interactions with glial cells are emerging as important regulators of spine morphology. In many cases, spine morphogenesis, plasticity, and maintenance also depend on synaptic activity, as shown by recent studies demonstrating changes in spine dynamics and maintenance with altered sensory experience.

Publication Title

Journal of neurobiology

Volume

64

Issue

1

First Page

47

Last Page

57

Comments

This article was published in Journal of neurobiology, Volume 64, Issue 1, Pages 47-57.

The published version is available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/neu.20149.

Copyright © 2005.

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