The joint research team of POSTECH and University of Basel in Swiss uncovered the mystery of a mechanism used to remember a joyful or unhappy memory in our brain.The team, consisting of Professor Joung-Hun Kim (LIFE, POSTECH), Dr. Oh Bin Kwon (LIFE) of POSTECH, and the research team of University of Basel,solved the mechanism that how Neuroligin-1 protein works as a receptor.
Despite the pivotal functions of N-methyl-D-aspartatereceptor (NMDAR) for neural circuit development and synaptic plasticity, the molecular mechanisms underlying the dynamics of NMDAR trafficking are poorly understood. The cell adhesion molecule neuroligin-1 (NL1) modifies NMDAR-dependent synaptic transmission and synaptic plasticity, but it is unclear whether NL1 controls synaptic accumulation or the function of the receptors. The research team provided evidence that NL1 regulates the abundance of NMDARs at postsynaptic sites. This function relies on extracellular NL1 isoform-specific sequences, which facilitate biochemical interactions between NL1 and the NMDAR GluN1 subunit.
Prof. Kim said,“This research uncovers the mechanism of the NMAD receptor, which has a strong relationship with autism and schizophrenia. We hope that this will help to cure related diseases and identifythe diseases’ causes.”