Follistatin mediates learning and synaptic plasticity via regulation of Asic4 expression in the hippocampus
Journal
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America
Journal Volume
118
Journal Issue
39
Date Issued
2021
Author(s)
Chen Y.-J.
Deng S.-M.
Chen H.-W.
Tsao C.-H.
Chen W.-T.
Cheng S.-J.
Tan B.C.-M.
Matzuk M.M.
Flint J.
Huang G.-J.
Abstract
Significance Adult neurogenesis, which is known to be a heritable trait, is thought to be involved in learning, stress-related anxiety, and antidepressant action. In this study, we map genes influencing adult neurogenesis and identify a candidate gene, follistatin ( Fst ) for further study. By utilizing a brain-specific knockout and viral vector-mediated gene transfer, we reveal the importance of hippocampal FST in neurogenesis, learning, and synaptic plasticity. From RNA sequencing and chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments, we identify Asic4 as a critical downstream target gene regulated by FST. Our work demonstrates that FST functions in the hippocampus at least in part through regulating Asic4 expression. Overall, we illustrate the role of hippocampal Fst in learning and synaptic plasticity.
SDGs
Publisher
National Academy of Sciences
Type
journal article