Drosophila fragile x-related gene regulates the MAP1B homolog Futsch to control synaptic structure and function

Yong Q. Zhang, Adina M. Bailey, Heinrich J.G. Matthies, Robert B. Renden, Mark A. Smith, Sean D. Speese, Gerald M. Rubin, Kendal Broadie

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

546 Scopus citations

Abstract

Fragile X mental retardation gene (FMR1) encodes an RNA binding protein that acts as a negative translational regulator. We have developed a Drosophila fragile X syndrome model using loss-of-function mutants and overexpression of the FMR1 homolog (dfxr). dfxr nulls display enlarged synaptic terminals, whereas neuronal overexpression results in fewer and larger synaptic boutons. Synaptic structural defects are accompanied by altered neurotransmission, with synapse type-specific regulation in central and peripheral synapses. These phenotypes mimic those observed in mutants of microtubule-associated Futsch. Immunoprecipitation of dFXR shows association with futsch mRNA, and Western analyses demonstrate that dFXR inversely regulates Futsch expression. dfxr futsch double mutants restore normal synaptic structure and function. We propose that dFXR acts as a translational repressor of Futsch to regulate microtubule-dependent synaptic growth and function.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)591-603
Number of pages13
JournalCell
Volume107
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 30 2001
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

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