Mechanisms of translational control in dendrites

Synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity demonstrate the ability of neurons to mature and respond to various stimuli. Both of these events require protein synthesis, in particular, localized translation within dendrites. Dendrites localize specific mRNAs in proximity to dendritic spines and have the capacity to actively translate these mRNAs within various ‘hotspots’ in the dendritic space. Rates of dendritic translation are stimulated and inhibited by various agents, suggesting that several signaling pathways that modulate localized protein synthesis may exist within the dendrite. This review will cover several suggested pathways for regulation of dendritic translation and propose a correlation between deregulated dendritic translation and disease.