Neurobeachin mediates activity-dependent changes at GABAergic synapses

Different neurological diseases are characterized by an imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory synapses, including epilepsy or autism spectrum disorders (ASD). One of many genes linked to these conditions is the scaffold protein neurobeachin (NBEA), which has been previously described as essential for receptor targeting to the plasma membrane. While its role at excitatory synapses has been studied extensively, NBEA function at inhibitory synapses is still barely understood. Here we report that NBEA is recruited to the GABAergic synapses in an activity-dependent manner and interacts with the postsynaptic scaffold. Upon neuronal activation, NBEA promotes receptor removal. Our data suggest a new role of NBEA in regulating GABAergic synapses depending on their activity.