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Abstract:
cpg15,
a gene we have isolated that is regulated by neuronal activity,
encodes a cell-surface molecule that promotes growth of dendritic
arbors through an intercellular signalling mechanism. Recent
studies of
cpg15
mRNA activity-dependent regulation in the developing mammalian
visual system combined with CPG15 protein localization studies have
allowed us to propose a model for CPG15 function whereby CPG15
expression on presynaptic axon terminals promotes growth of
apposing postsynaptic dendritic partners. Theoretical models of
afferent segregation into eye specific domains in the visual
system, supported by anatomical studies, have generally required
coordinate interactions between pre- and postsynaptic partners.
CPG15 may be a molecule that can mediate such coordinate growth of
postsynaptic dendritic partners with their active presynaptic
counterparts.
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