Project Details
Projekt
NG2 cells as receivers and transducers of neuronal network signals via locally translated mRNA
Subject Area
Molecular Biology and Physiology of Neurons and Glial Cells
Term
from 2018 to 2024
Project identifier
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 406931209
NG2 glia uniquely form synapses with neurons in both grey and white matter where they represent a postsynaptic compartment. Neurons respond to synaptic signals by regulating translation of synaptically localized RNAs. This allows a fast and controlled response to a signal perceived far away from the cell body. In a similar fashion we hypothesise that NG2 glia locally translate mRNAs specifically localized in processes and synapses. We have identified a range of mRNAs that are localized in NG2 cell processes and have identified candidates for local translation. Two particularly interesting proteins are a variant histone known to bind to active promoters, and the transcription factor Olig2. We have shown that stimulation of isolated NG2+ cells in culture with glutamate induces translation of H3.3a localized RNA into protein. In this project we will further investigate the stimuli (electrophysiological and physiological) that impinge on such local translation and regulate transport of the proteins to their sites of action (e.g. into the cell nucleus). We thus intend to unravel how NG2 glia respond to network activity via local translation of mRNA and how this shapes their differentiation and functional properties.
DFG Programme
Research Grants
