FMRP(1-297)-tat restores ion channel and synaptic function in a model of Fragile X syndrome

Nat Commun. 2020 Jun 2;11(1):2755. doi: 10.1038/s41467-020-16250-4.

Abstract

Fragile X Syndrome results from a loss of Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein (FMRP). We now show that FMRP is a member of a Cav3-Kv4 ion channel complex that is known to regulate A-type potassium current in cerebellar granule cells to produce mossy fiber LTP. Mossy fiber LTP is absent in Fmr1 knockout (KO) mice but is restored by FMRP(1-297)-tat peptide. This peptide further rapidly permeates the blood-brain barrier to enter cells across the cerebellar-cortical axis that restores the balance of protein translation for at least 24 h and transiently reduces elevated levels of activity of adult Fmr1 KO mice in the Open Field Test. These data reveal that FMRP(1-297)-tat can improve function from the levels of protein translation to synaptic efficacy and behaviour in a model of Fragile X syndrome, identifying a potential therapeutic strategy for this genetic disorder.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain / pathology
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein / genetics
  • Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein / metabolism*
  • Fragile X Syndrome / genetics
  • Fragile X Syndrome / metabolism*
  • Fragile X Syndrome / pathology
  • Ion Channels / metabolism*
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Mice, Knockout
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders / genetics
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders / metabolism
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders / pathology
  • Neuronal Plasticity / genetics
  • Neuronal Plasticity / physiology
  • Neurons / metabolism
  • Protein Biosynthesis

Substances

  • Fmr1 protein, mouse
  • Ion Channels
  • Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein

Associated data

  • figshare/10.6084/m9.figshare.12132864

Grants and funding