Activation of β-adrenergic receptors facilitates heterosynaptic translation-dependent long-term potentiation

摘要

Non-technical summarySpecialized communication zones between neurons known as synapses undergo changes during memory formation. Noradrenaline is a neurotransmitter that is secreted in the brain when we are aroused or are exploring a new environment. β-Adrenergic receptors are activated by noradrenaline and can facilitate synaptic changes in the hippocampus, a brain structure critical for making new memories. We show that activation of β-adrenergic receptors generates long-lasting enhancements of synaptic strength that can facilitate plasticity at another group of synapses on the same post-synaptic cells. This research will further our understanding of how noradrenaline can facilitate the creation of associative memories.