Neuron
Volume 39, Issue 5, 28 August 2003, Pages 735-738
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Pro-Region of Neurotrophins: Role in Synaptic Modulation

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Abstract

Neurotrophins are synthesized first as precursors, followed by maturation through proteolytic removal of the “pro” region. Since pro- and mature neurotrophins elicit opposite functional effects by differential interactions with Trks and p75 receptors, extracellular cleavage represents a new way to control the synaptic functions of neurotrophins. A single nucleotide mutation in the pro-region appears to affect synaptic targeting and activity-dependent secretion of BDNF in hippocampal neurons. These results demonstrate new mechanisms by which neurotrophins regulate synaptic plasticity and memory function.

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