Neurons transmit nerve stimuli and are formed by the soma (the cell body) and a series of branches (dendrites and axons). The development of axons and dendrites allows establishing neural networks and this establishes cognitive abilities. In fact, the alteration of dendritic development is the main characteristic in cases of intellectual disability.
"The communication between neurons is one of the main factors that regulate the growth of axons and dendrites. To produce this growth, it is necessary to induce a series of changes in the cytoskeleton and increase the lipid components to extend the surface of the neuronal membrane, "said the expert.
Although the changes that take place in the cytoskeleton are well known, until now there was not "enough information" about what metabolic changes occur in the neuron in order to synthesize the necessary lipids and extend the cell membrane.
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Discovering that the increase in glucose metabolism is essential for the growth of axons and dendrites is the most outstanding scientific contribution of the first author of the study, Marc Segarra (UB-UBNeuro), in collaboration with experts from the Celltec-UB Research Group and of the Autonomous University of Madrid. "This process is essential for a part of this glucose is destined to the synthesis of lipids that allow to expand the surface of the neuronal membrane," said Segarra, who is also a member of Celltec-UB.
The scientific team has also determined the molecular mechanism that enhances the uptake and metabolism of glucose in the synaptic communication between neurons. In the opinion of the researchers, this process is regulated by the gene expression of GLUT3 glucose transporter (through the CREB protein) and genes that limit glucose metabolism through the participation of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1a) .
"The pharmacological and genetic manipulation of glucose metabolism in neurons (both in vitro and in vivo) affects neuronal morphology. Thus, the discovery presented in 'The EMBO Journal' could open new therapeutic pathways for the treatment of disorders related to brain development, "the authors have settled.
The new study has received funding from the Ministry of Economy, Industry and Competitiveness (MINECO), the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the Ramón Areces Foundation and the Tatiana Pérez de Guzmán el Bueno Foundation.
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