Mechanisms of dendritic maturation.
The highly complex geometry of dendritic trees is crucial for neural signal integration and the proper wiring of neuronal circuits. The morphogenesis of dendritic trees is regulated by innate genetic factors, neuronal activity, and external molecular cues. How each of these factors contributes to dendritic maturation has been addressed in the developing nervous systems of animals ranging from insects to mammals. The results of such investigations have shown that the contribution of intrinsic and extrinsic factors and activity, however, appear to be weighted differentially in different types of neurons, in different brain areas, and especially in different species. Moreover, it appears that dozens of molecules have been found to regulate dendritic maturation, but it is almost certain that each molecule plays only a specific role in this formidable cooperative venture. This article reviews our current knowledge and understanding of the role of various factors in the establishment of the architecture of mature dendritic trees.
Libersat
Frederic
F
Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience and Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel. libersat@bgumail.ac.il
Duch
Carsten
C
D000818:Animals; D020013:Calcium Signaling / Q000235:genetics; D002454:Cell Differentiation / Q000502:physiology*; D002490:Central Nervous System / Q000166:cytology* / Q000254:growth & development*; D003712:Dendrites / Q000502:physiology* / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D018507:Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental / Q000235:genetics; D006728:Hormones / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D009414:Nerve Growth Factors / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D015398:Signal Transduction / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology
D006728:Hormones; D009414:Nerve Growth Factors