dendritic spine

Definition

Target type: cellularcomponent

A small, membranous protrusion from a dendrite that forms a postsynaptic compartment, typically receiving input from a single presynapse. They function as partially isolated biochemical and an electrical compartments. Spine morphology is variable:they can be thin, stubby, mushroom, or branched, with a continuum of intermediate morphologies. They typically terminate in a bulb shape, linked to the dendritic shaft by a restriction. Spine remodeling is though to be involved in synaptic plasticity. [GOC:nln]

Dendritic spines are small, mushroom-shaped protrusions that emerge from the dendrites of neurons. They are the primary sites of excitatory synaptic transmission in the brain. The cellular components of a dendritic spine include:

* **Postsynaptic density (PSD):** A dense protein scaffold located at the postsynaptic membrane of the spine. The PSD contains a large number of proteins involved in signal transduction, including receptors for neurotransmitters, scaffolding proteins, and signaling molecules.
* **Actin cytoskeleton:** A dynamic network of actin filaments that provides structural support to the spine and plays a role in spine morphology and plasticity. The actin cytoskeleton is constantly being remodeled in response to synaptic activity.
* **Mitochondria:** Organelles responsible for energy production. Mitochondria are important for maintaining the energy demands of the spine, particularly during synaptic transmission.
* **Endoplasmic reticulum (ER):** A network of membranes that plays a role in protein synthesis, calcium signaling, and lipid metabolism. The ER is important for maintaining the structural integrity and function of the spine.
* **Synaptic vesicles:** Small membrane-bound organelles that store and release neurotransmitters. Synaptic vesicles are clustered at the presynaptic terminal and are responsible for transmitting signals across the synapse.
* **Neurotransmitter receptors:** Proteins embedded in the postsynaptic membrane that bind to neurotransmitters released from the presynaptic terminal. These receptors trigger signaling cascades that ultimately lead to changes in neuronal activity.
* **Scaffolding proteins:** Proteins that link together different components of the PSD and the actin cytoskeleton. Scaffolding proteins help to organize the PSD and regulate the localization and function of other proteins.
* **Signaling molecules:** Proteins that participate in signal transduction pathways initiated by neurotransmitter binding. Signaling molecules can activate or inhibit downstream targets, ultimately leading to changes in gene expression, protein synthesis, and neuronal function.

The cellular components of dendritic spines work together to ensure efficient synaptic transmission and plasticity. The PSD provides a platform for signal transduction, while the actin cytoskeleton provides structural support and allows for dynamic changes in spine morphology. The mitochondria provide energy, the ER plays a role in protein synthesis and calcium signaling, and the synaptic vesicles store and release neurotransmitters. Together, these components create a highly specialized structure that is essential for neuronal communication and brain function.'
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Proteins (57)

Compounds (1,394)