The Role of TAO2 in Synapse Formation and Plasticity

• Applicant: Dr. Froylan Calderon de Anda
• Subject Area: Molecular Biology and Physiology of Neurons and Glial Cells
• Term: from 2015 to 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 278170285

TAO2 is a member of the MAP Kinase Kinase Kinase (MAPKKK) family. In humans, the gene encoding TAO2 is located on chromosome 16p11.2, a region that carries substantial susceptibility to autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and schizophrenia. We demonstrated a novel role for TAO2 in the development of axons and dendrites (Calderon de Anda F. et al., Nat. Neurosci. 2012). In the proposed project, we will test whether TAO2 is a key player of synapse formation and function. To directly test this, we will elucidate: a) whether TAO2 modulates spine formation via actin cytoskeleton / microtubules remodeling, and b) whether TAO2 depletion affects synapse function mediating endoplasmic reticulum (ER) transport into dendritic spines.

• DFG Programme: Research Units
• Subproject of: FOR 2419: Plasticity versus Stability - Molecular Mechanisms of Synaptic Strength