The fragile X syndrome: from molecular genetics to neurobiology.
Since the identification of the FMR1 gene basic research has been focused on the molecular characterization of the FMR1 gene product, the fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP). Recent developments in fragile X research have provided new insights and knowledge about the physiological function of FMRP in the cell and the nerve cell in particular. Currently, compelling evidence suggests a role for FMRP in the transport/translation of dendritically localized mRNAs. In addition, the identification of some of the target mRNAs of FMRP have led to an increased interest in the neurobiology of the syndrome. This review highlights the role of FMRP in dendritic mRNA transport/translation in relation to synaptic plasticity, a molecular mechanism implicated in learning and memory.
Willemsen
Rob
R
CBG-Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. r.willemsen@erasmusmc.nl
Oostra
Ben A
BA
Bassell
Gary J
GJ
Dictenberg
Jason
J
D000818:Animals; D003712:Dendrites / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D051860:Fragile X Messenger Ribonucleoprotein 1; D005600:Fragile X Syndrome / Q000235:genetics* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D051379:Mice; D008967:Molecular Biology; D009419:Nerve Tissue Proteins / Q000172:deficiency* / Q000235:genetics; D009446:Neurobiology; D009473:Neuronal Plasticity / Q000235:genetics; D016601:RNA-Binding Proteins; D013569:Synapses / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology
D051860:Fragile X Messenger Ribonucleoprotein 1; D009419:Nerve Tissue Proteins; D016601:RNA-Binding Proteins; C497683:FMR1 protein, human; C497684:Fmr1 protein, mouse