Mechanisms of dendritic maturation

Authors: Libersat, Frederic¹; Duch, Carsten²

Source: Molecular Neurobiology, Volume 29, Number 3, June 2004 , pp. 303-320(18)

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Abstract:

The highly complex geometry of dendritic trees is crucial for neural signal integration and the proper wiring of neuronal circuits. The morphogenesis of dendritic trees is regulated by innate genetic factors, neuronal activity, and external molecular cues. How each of these factors contributes to dendritic maturation has been addressed in the developing nervous systems of animals ranging from insects to mammals. The results of such investigations have shown that the contribution of intrinsic and extrinsic factors and activity, however, appear to be weighted differentially in different types of neurons, in different brain areas, and especially in different species. Moreover, it appears that dozens of molecules have been found to regulate dendritic maturation, but it is almost certain that each molecule plays only a specific role in this formidable cooperative venture. This article reviews our current knowledge and understanding of the role of various factors in the establishment of the architecture of mature dendritic trees.

Keywords: Dendrite; growth; CNS development; neuronal structure

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1385/MN:29:3:303

Affiliations: 1: Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience and Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, 84105, Beer-Sheva, Israel, Email: libersat@bgumail.bgu.ac.il 2: Institute of Biology/Neurobiology, Free University of Berlin, Konigin—Luise Str. 28-30, 14195, Berlin, Germany,

Publication date: 2004-06-01