Synaptic localization and function of Sidekick recognition molecules require MAGI scaffolding proteins

J Neurosci. 2010 Mar 10;30(10):3579-88. doi: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.6319-09.2010.

Abstract

Four transmembrane adhesion molecules-Sidekick-1, Sidekick-2, Down's syndrome cell adhesion molecule (Dscam), and Dscam-like-are determinants of lamina-specific synapse formation in the vertebrate retina. Their C termini are predicted to bind postsynaptic density (PSD)-95/Discs Large/ZO-1 (PDZ) domains, which are present in many synaptic scaffolding proteins. We identify members of the membrane-associated guanylate kinase with inverted orientation (MAGI) and PSD-95 subfamilies of multi-PDZ domain proteins as binding partners for Sidekicks and Dscams. Specific MAGI and PSD-95 family members are present in distinct subsets of retinal synapses, as are Sidekicks and Dscams. Using Sidekick-2 as an exemplar, we show that its PDZ-binding C terminus is required for both its synaptic localization in photoreceptors and its ability to promote lamina-specific arborization of presynaptic and postsynaptic processes in the inner plexiform layer. In photoreceptor synapses that contain both MAGI-1 and PSD-95, Sidekick-2 preferentially associates with MAGI-1. Depletion of MAGI-1 from photoreceptors by RNA interference blocks synaptic localization of Sidekick-2 in photoreceptors without affecting localization of PSD-95. Likewise, depletion of MAGI-2 from retinal ganglion cells and interneurons interferes with Sidekick-2-dependent laminar targeting of processes. These results demonstrate that localization and function of Sidekick-2 require its incorporation into a MAGI-containing synaptic scaffold.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing / analysis
  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing / physiology*
  • Amino Acid Sequence
  • Animals
  • Base Sequence
  • Cell Adhesion Molecules
  • Cell Line
  • Chickens
  • Guanylate Kinases
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin G / analysis
  • Immunoglobulin G / metabolism*
  • Immunoglobulin G / physiology
  • Membrane Proteins / analysis
  • Membrane Proteins / metabolism*
  • Membrane Proteins / physiology*
  • Mice
  • Molecular Sequence Data
  • Nuclear Matrix-Associated Proteins / analysis
  • Nuclear Matrix-Associated Proteins / metabolism*
  • Nuclear Matrix-Associated Proteins / physiology
  • Retinal Ganglion Cells / chemistry
  • Retinal Ganglion Cells / physiology
  • Synapses / metabolism*
  • Synapses / physiology

Substances

  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing
  • Cell Adhesion Molecules
  • Immunoglobulin G
  • Membrane Proteins
  • Nuclear Matrix-Associated Proteins
  • Sdk2 protein, mouse
  • Guanylate Kinases
  • Magi1 protein, mouse