HDAC4 governs a transcriptional program essential for synaptic plasticity and memory

Cell. 2012 Nov 9;151(4):821-834. doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2012.09.037.

Abstract

Neuronal activity influences genes involved in circuit development and information processing. However, the molecular basis of this process remains poorly understood. We found that HDAC4, a histone deacetylase that shuttles between the nucleus and cytoplasm, controls a transcriptional program essential for synaptic plasticity and memory. The nuclear import of HDAC4 and its association with chromatin is negatively regulated by NMDA receptors. In the nucleus, HDAC4 represses genes encoding constituents of central synapses, thereby affecting synaptic architecture and strength. Furthermore, we show that a truncated form of HDAC4 encoded by an allele associated with mental retardation is a gain-of-function nuclear repressor that abolishes transcription and synaptic transmission despite the loss of the deacetylase domain. Accordingly, mice carrying a mutant that mimics this allele exhibit deficits in neurotransmission, spatial learning, and memory. These studies elucidate a mechanism of experience-dependent plasticity and define the biological role of HDAC4 in the brain.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Active Transport, Cell Nucleus*
  • Animals
  • Brain / metabolism*
  • Histone Deacetylases / metabolism*
  • Memory*
  • Mice
  • Neuronal Plasticity*
  • Neurons / metabolism*
  • Prosencephalon / metabolism
  • Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate / metabolism
  • Synapses / metabolism*
  • Transcription Factors / metabolism
  • Transcription, Genetic*

Substances

  • Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate
  • Transcription Factors
  • Hdac5 protein, mouse
  • Histone Deacetylases

Associated data

  • GEO/GSE41220