Communication Breakdown: The Impact of Ageing on Synapse Structure.

Communication Breakdown: The Impact of Ageing on Synapse Structure.
Ageing Res Rev. 2014 Feb 1;
Authors: Petralia RS, Mattson MP, Yao PJ
Abstract
Impaired synaptic plasticity is implicated in the functional decline of the nervous system associated with ageing. Understanding the structure of ageing synapses is essential to understanding the functions of these synapses and their role in the ageing nervous system. In this review, we summarize studies on ageing synapses in vertebrates and invertebrates, focusing on changes in morphology and ultrastructure. We cover different parts of the nervous system, including the brain, the retina, the cochlea, and the neuromuscular junction. The morphological characteristics of aged synapses could shed light on the underlying molecular changes and their functional consequences.
PMID: 24495392 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Source: Ageing Research Reviews - February 1, 2014 Category: Genetics & Stem Cells Authors: Petralia RS, Mattson MP, Yao PJ Tags: Ageing Res Rev Source Type: research