Role of 4.1N in synaptic plasticity and engram modulation

During Long Term Potentiation (LTP) AMPA receptors (AMPARs) are inserted into the plasma membrane. This form of synaptic plasticity is crucial for many aspects of brain function, including learning and memory. Protein 4.1N (EPB41L1) is a neuronally enriched member of the protein 4.1 family. In primary hippocampal cultures, 4.1N is enriched at the discrete sites of synaptic contact, co-localizing with the postsynaptic density proteins, suggesting a potential functional role for 4.1N as a component of the cytoskeletal architecture of excitatory synapses. 4.1N also directly interacts with the GluR1 subunit of the AMPARs and co-localizes with AMPARs at excitatory synapses. There is evidence from behavioral and cellular studies pointing to AMPAR trafficking as an underlying mechanism for a variety of learned responses. This work focus on the role of 4.1N during LTP and try to enhance AMPAR trafficking in specific neurons that participate in memory and learning processes (engrams). As a final goal, the overexpression of 4.1N aims to improve cognitive abilities in mice.