Cux1 and Cux2 regulate dendritic branching, spine morphology, and synapses of the upper layer neurons of the cortex.

摘要: Dendrite branching and spine formation determines the function of morphologically distinct specialized neuronal subclasses. However, little is known about programs instructing specific patterns in vertebrate neurons whether such influence dendritic spines synapses. Using knockout knockdown studies combined with morphological, molecular, electrophysiological analysis, we show that homeobox Cux1 Cux2 are intrinsic complementary regulators dendrite branching, development, synapse layer II-III cerebral cortex. Cux genes control number maturation partly through direct regulation expression Xlr3b Xlr4b, chromatin remodeling previously implicated cognitive defects. Accordingly, abnormal dendrites synapses Cux2(-/-) mice correlate reduced synaptic defects working memory. These demonstrate critical roles dendritogenesis highlight subclass-specific mechanisms contribute to establishment circuits.