Referenced in: none

Automatically associated channels: Slo1

Title: Mechanisms of CaMKII action in long-term potentiation.

Authors: John Lisman, Ryohei Yasuda, Sridhar Raghavachari

Journal, date & volume: Nat. Rev. Neurosci., 2012 Mar , 13, 169-82

PubMed link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22334212

Abstract
Long-term potentiation (LTP) of synaptic strength occurs during learning and can last for long periods, making it a probable mechanism for memory storage. LTP induction results in calcium entry, which activates calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII). CaMKII subsequently translocates to the synapse, where it binds to NMDA-type glutamate receptors and produces potentiation by phosphorylating principal and auxiliary subunits of AMPA-type glutamate receptors. These processes are all localized to stimulated spines and account for the synapse-specificity of LTP. In the later stages of LTP, CaMKII has a structural role in enlarging and strengthening the synapse.