Synaptic roles of Cdk5: implications in higher cognitive functions and neurodegenerative diseases

Zelda H Cheung; Amy K Y Fu; Nancy Y Ip

doi:10.1016/j.neuron.2006.02.024

Synaptic roles of Cdk5: implications in higher cognitive functions and neurodegenerative diseases

Neuron. 2006 Apr 6;50(1):13-8. doi: 10.1016/j.neuron.2006.02.024.

Authors

Zelda H Cheung¹, Amy K Y Fu, Nancy Y Ip

Affiliation

¹ Department of Biochemistry, Biotechnology Research Institute and Molecular Neuroscience Center, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China.

PMID: 16600851
DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2006.02.024

Abstract

Accumulating evidence indicates that cyclin dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5), through phosphorylating a plethora of pre- and postsynaptic proteins, functions as an essential modulator of synaptic transmission. Recent advances in the field of Cdk5 research have not only consolidated the in vivo importance of Cdk5 in neurotransmission but also suggest a pivotal role of Cdk5 in the regulation of higher cognitive functions and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we will discuss the recent findings on the emanating role of Cdk5 as a regulator of synaptic functions and plasticity.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Animals
Cognition / physiology*
Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 5 / metabolism*
Gene Expression Regulation / physiology
Humans
Models, Neurological
Neurodegenerative Diseases / metabolism*
Receptors, Neurotransmitter / metabolism
Signal Transduction / physiology
Synapses / metabolism*
Synaptic Transmission / physiology

Substances

Receptors, Neurotransmitter
Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 5