The role of Ca²⁺-stimulated adenylyl cyclases in bidirectional synaptic plasticity and brain function

Abstract

The activity-dependent neuronal modification is important for many aspects of adaptive behavior and brain development. Very often, neurological disorders are associated with the alteration of neural signaling pathways that are required for activity-triggered cellular events. Mounting evidence has implicated the role of cyclic AMP (cAMP)-cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA)-ERK1/2-cAMP-responsive element-binding protein (CREB) cascade in numerous brain functions such as learning and memory. Ca²⁺-stimulated type 1 and type 8 adenylyl cyclases (AC1 and AC8) are unique enzymes that couple activity-dependent calcium influx to the activation of cAMP signaling. Here, we summarize some direct evidence to support that Ca²⁺-stimulated cAMP signaling regulates molecular and cellular substrates of neuronal adaptation. Specifically, the function of AC1 and AC8 in synaptic functions, such as long-term potentiation, long-term depression, and depotentiation, has been examined by using genetic deletion and overexpression approaches. Consistent with the current hypothesis, the Ca²⁺-stimulated cAMP production through AC1 and AC8 is required for the activity-dependent activation of the ERK1/2-CREB cascade. We further describe the phenotypes of AC1/AC8 mutant mice in memory formation and other adaptive brain functions. The findings may suggest Ca²⁺-stimulated AC as therapeutic target for the treatment of mental retardation, pain, addiction, anxiety, depression, and neurodegeneration.