postsynapse to nucleus signaling pathway

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The series of molecular signals that conveys information from the postsynapse to the nucleus via cytoskeletal transport of a protein from a postsynapse to the component to the nucleus where it affects biochemical processes that occur in the nucleus (e.g DNA transcription, mRNA splicing, or DNA/histone modifications). [GOC:dos, PMID:24317321, PMID:25652077]

The postsynapse-to-nucleus signaling pathway is a complex cascade of events that transmits information from the synapse to the nucleus, ultimately influencing gene expression and cellular function. It involves a series of molecular interactions that transduce the signal from the postsynaptic membrane to the nucleus, initiating changes in gene expression that contribute to long-term synaptic plasticity and neuronal development.

**1. Signal Reception and Transduction:**

- The pathway begins with the activation of postsynaptic receptors by neurotransmitters released from the presynaptic terminal. This triggers a cascade of intracellular signaling events.
- Depending on the neurotransmitter and receptor type, different signaling pathways are activated. For example, glutamate receptors can activate the NMDA receptor pathway, while GABA receptors activate the GABAergic pathway.
- These pathways involve various second messengers and kinases, such as calcium ions (Ca2+), cyclic AMP (cAMP), protein kinase A (PKA), and protein kinase C (PKC).

**2. Signal Amplification and Integration:**

- The initial signaling events amplify and integrate the incoming signal.
- Second messengers, like Ca2+ and cAMP, act as signaling molecules that can activate downstream signaling cascades.
- Protein kinases, such as PKA and PKC, phosphorylate target proteins, altering their activity and facilitating signal propagation.
- The integration of signals from different pathways allows for complex and fine-tuned responses.

**3. Nuclear Translocation and Transcriptional Regulation:**

- The signal eventually reaches the nucleus, where it regulates gene expression.
- Signaling molecules can directly interact with transcription factors or activate downstream signaling pathways that lead to transcription factor activation.
- Transcription factors, like CREB (cAMP response element-binding protein) and NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells), bind to specific DNA sequences and regulate the transcription of target genes.
- The expression of these target genes can contribute to long-term synaptic plasticity, neuronal survival, and other cellular processes.

**4. Cellular Effects and Homeostasis:**

- The changes in gene expression induced by the postsynapse-to-nucleus signaling pathway have long-lasting effects on neuronal function and plasticity.
- These effects can include changes in synaptic strength, neuronal survival, dendrite morphology, and the formation of new synapses.
- The pathway is tightly regulated to ensure proper cellular homeostasis and prevent aberrant signaling.

**In summary, the postsynapse-to-nucleus signaling pathway involves a cascade of molecular events that transmit information from the synapse to the nucleus, ultimately influencing gene expression and cellular function. This pathway plays a crucial role in synaptic plasticity, neuronal development, and the long-term regulation of neuronal activity.**'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (72)