The elongation factor eEF1A2 controls translation and actin dynamics in dendritic spines

Elongation factor eEF1A2 controls translation and actin dynamics in dendritic spines

Protein synthesis and structural remodeling in dendritic spines are critical to long-lasting synaptic plasticity (changes in neuronal connectivity) that underlies learning and memory. These processes are tightly controlled, however, and protein synthesis appears to be initially suppressed to provide synaptic stability. Mendoza et al. found a common regulatory link that coordinates these processes. In mouse hippocampal neurons, glutamate-induced phosphorylation of the translation elongation factor eEF1A2 triggered its dissociation both from its activator, thereby transiently inhibiting protein synthesis, and from actin fibers, thereby facilitating actin motility and cytoskeletal remodeling. The findings provide deeper mechanistic insight into the association of protein synthesis with synaptic plasticity.

Reference:

Mendoza MB, Gutierrez S, Ortiz R, Moreno DF, Dermit M, Dodel M, Rebollo E, Bosch M, Mardakheh FK, Gallego C. (2021). eEF1A2 controls translation and actin dynamics in dendritic spines. Science Signaling.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1126/scisignal.abf5594

Fluorescence and FRET images of representative spines from hippocampal neurons expressing mScarlet-eEF1B2 and mGFP-eEF1A2 or mGFP as control.