neurotransmitter receptor transport, postsynaptic endosome to lysosome

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The directed movement of neurotransmitter receptor from the postsynaptic endosome in tranpsort vesicles to the lysosome for degradation. [GOC:dos]

Neurotransmitter receptor transport from postsynaptic endosomes to lysosomes is a critical process for regulating the number of receptors at the synapse and ensuring proper neuronal signaling. This pathway involves a series of steps, starting with the internalization of receptors from the plasma membrane into early endosomes. Early endosomes are dynamic compartments that can either recycle receptors back to the plasma membrane or sort them to late endosomes, which mature into lysosomes.

The journey from early to late endosomes is driven by a complex interplay of molecular motors, adaptor proteins, and sorting signals within the receptor proteins themselves. Several key factors influence this journey:

1. **Ubiquitylation:** Receptor ubiquitylation, the attachment of ubiquitin tags, serves as a signal for sorting to late endosomes. Ubiquitin ligases, like Nedd4 and its family members, attach ubiquitin to specific lysine residues on the receptor.

2. **Rab GTPases:** Rab GTPases, small GTP-binding proteins, control the movement and fusion of vesicles. Rab5, associated with early endosomes, promotes receptor internalization, while Rab7, linked to late endosomes, guides the transport towards lysosomes.

3. **Adaptor Proteins:** Adaptor proteins like AP-2 and ESCRT complexes facilitate the sorting of receptors into vesicles. AP-2 helps internalize receptors into early endosomes, while ESCRTs mediate the budding of intraluminal vesicles (ILVs) within late endosomes.

4. **Lysosomal Degradation:** Finally, receptors reach lysosomes, where they undergo enzymatic degradation. This process, involving hydrolases like cathepsins, breaks down the receptors into smaller peptides and amino acids, effectively removing them from the synapse.

This intricate trafficking pathway ensures that receptors are properly localized and maintained at the synapse. Disruptions in this process can lead to impaired synaptic function and contribute to various neurological disorders.

This transport mechanism plays a vital role in regulating the strength and plasticity of synaptic connections, ultimately impacting neuronal communication and brain function.'
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Proteins (6)

Compounds (3)