neurotransmitter receptor internalization

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

A receptor-mediated endocytosis process that results in the internalization of a neurotransmitter receptor. [GOC:dos]

Neurotransmitter receptor internalization is a crucial process in neuronal signaling that regulates the strength and duration of synaptic transmission. It involves the removal of neurotransmitter receptors from the cell surface, primarily through endocytosis. This process can be triggered by various factors, including ligand binding, phosphorylation, and interactions with other proteins. The internalization pathway typically involves the following steps:

1. **Ligand Binding:** Neurotransmitter binding to its receptor initiates the internalization process. This binding can induce conformational changes in the receptor, exposing internalization motifs that interact with adaptor proteins.
2. **Adaptor Protein Recruitment:** Adaptor proteins, such as clathrin and AP2, recognize these motifs and assemble around the receptor, forming a coat that deforms the plasma membrane.
3. **Clathrin-mediated Endocytosis:** The clathrin coat acts as a scaffolding structure, invaginating the membrane and forming a clathrin-coated vesicle. The receptor, along with associated proteins, is enclosed within the vesicle.
4. **Vesicle Budding:** The vesicle pinches off from the membrane, releasing it into the cytoplasm.
5. **Uncoating and Trafficking:** Once internalized, the vesicle undergoes uncoating, shedding the clathrin coat. The vesicle then travels through the endocytic pathway, potentially undergoing sorting and recycling.
6. **Recycling or Degradation:** The internalized receptor can follow two main fates:
* **Recycling:** The receptor can be returned to the plasma membrane, restoring its signaling capacity.
* **Degradation:** The receptor can be transported to lysosomes for degradation, effectively downregulating signaling.

The specific internalization pathway and fate of the receptor can vary depending on the receptor type, the cell type, and the signaling context. This process is tightly regulated and plays a vital role in synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory formation. Disruptions in receptor internalization can lead to neurological disorders.'
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Proteins (6)

Compounds (3)