Ubiquitin-dependent endocytosis, trafficking and turnover of neuronal membrane proteins

Mol Cell Neurosci. 2012 Mar;49(3):387-93. doi: 10.1016/j.mcn.2011.08.006. Epub 2011 Aug 22.

Abstract

Extracellular signaling between cells is often transduced via receptors that reside at the cell membrane. In neurons this receptor-mediated signaling can promote a variety of cellular events such as differentiation, axon outgrowth and guidance, and synaptic development and function. Endocytic membrane trafficking of receptors ensures that the strength and duration of an extracellular signal is properly regulated. The covalent modification of membrane proteins by ubiquitin is a key biological mechanism controlling receptor internalization and endocytic sorting to recycling and degradative pathways in many cell types. In this review we highlight recent findings regarding the ubiquitin-dependent trafficking and turnover of receptors in neurons and the implications for neuronal development and function.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Axons / metabolism
  • Endocytosis / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Membrane Proteins / metabolism*
  • Neurons / metabolism*
  • Protein Transport / physiology*
  • Signal Transduction / physiology
  • Synapses / metabolism
  • Ubiquitin / metabolism*

Substances

  • Membrane Proteins
  • Ubiquitin