To elucidate the role of the Kinesin motor protein KIF5B in mRNA transport and dendritic spine morphogenesis

Abstract

The formation and development of neuronal synapses is crucial for normal brain function. Most of the excitatory synapses are located on the specialized protrusions on the dendritic processes called dendritic spines. The maintenance and maturation of dendritic spine depend on synaptic activity and local protein synthesis. Studies revealed that many dendritic localized RNAs are transported in the form of RNA granules by various molecular motor proteins. However, the functional link between molecular motors and synapse development remains unclear. Previous study has suggested that the Kinesin motor protein KIF5B is responsible for transporting RNA granules. Using dissociated primary culture of hippocampal neurons from kif5b knockout mice and RNA-interference, we provide evidence that KIF5B is essential for dendritic mRNA trafficking and dendritic spine morphogenesis. We have also examined how post-translational modification of KIF5B regulates its function in neuron.