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PhD Exit Seminar – Jessica Pressey (Woodin lab)
September 10, 2015 @ 1:10 pm - 2:10 pm
PhD Exit Seminar
Thursday September 10th, 1:10 pm – Ramsay Wright Bldg., Rm. 432
Jessica Pressey (Woodin lab)
“Protein Interactions Regulate KCC2-mediated Chloride Homeostasis”
Abstract
KCC2 is the primary Cl- cotransporter which maintains low [Cl-]i required for inhibitory neurotransmission. Despite intense investigation, the underlying mechanisms governing KCC2 regulation remain poorly understood. In my thesis I have presented two novel pieces of evidence providing further insight into KCC2 regulation. First, KCC2 membrane expression and function require the expression of the kainate-type glutamate receptor subunit GluK2. Second, KCC2 membrane recycling can be increased by increasing PKC-mediated phosphorylation of GluK2. Together, modification of KCC2 by GluK2 interaction and PKC-mediated phosphorylation functionally interact to synergistically increase KCC2 expression and function. This is the first demonstration of protein interaction and protein phosphorylation which create a functional cross-talk which regulates KCC2 surface expression and function. Elucidating the mechanisms which regulate KCC2 function are highly coveted as KCC2 down-regulation is commonly observed in neuropathophysiological conditions such as epilepsy and neuropathic pain. Taken together, my results present novel findings regarding the mechanisms which regulate KCC2 function and surface expression and critically regulate neuronal Cl- homeostasis and inhibitory neurotransmission.
Ramsay Wright is a wheelchair accessible building.