Axon Withdrawal during Synapse Elimination at the Neuromuscular Junction Is Accompanied by Disassembly of the Postsynaptic Specialization and Withdrawal of Schwann Cell Processes

摘要: Nerve terminal withdrawal is accompanied by a loss of acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) at corresponding postsynaptic sites during the process synapse elimination developing () and reinnervated adult neuromuscular junctions. Aside from AChR nerve loss, however, molecular cellular alterations that occur are unknown. To gain better understanding cascade events leads to disassembly synaptic process, we surveyed distribution elements specialization, basal lamina, supporting Schwann cells occurs after reinnervation. In addition, quantitative techniques were used determine temporal order disappearance molecules lost relative AChRs. We found dismantling specialization was inhomogeneous, with evidence rapid dissolution some aspects apparatus slower others. also observed cell processes elimination, time course similar seen for retraction. contrast, all extracellular markers examined slowly loss. therefore conclude synapse-wide, removing not only terminals but many apparatus. The in stereotyped sequence appearing much more stable than