Enhanced learning and memory in GAT1 heterozygous mice

• 来源期刊: 生物化学与生物物理学报（英文版）
• 关键词: GAT1 cognition LTP hippocampus microarray
• 年，卷（期）: 2012,（4）
• 页码范围: 359-366
• 页数: 8页
• 语种: 英文
• DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gms005

摘要

γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.The termination of GABA transmission is through the action of a family of membrane proteins,called GABA transporters (GAT1-4).It is well established that GABA system is involved in the modulation of memory.Our previous study showed that homozygous GAT1-/- mice exhibited impaired hippocampus-dependent learning and memory.To evaluate the impact of endogenous reduced GABA reuptake on mice cognitive behaviors,the ability of learning and memory of heterozygous GAT1+/- mice was detected by the passive avoidance paradigm and Morris water maze.The hole board paradigm was also used to measure changes in anxiety-related behavior or exploratory behavior in such mice.As one form of synaptic plasticity,longterm potentiation was recorded in the mouse hippocampal CA1 area.We found that GAT1+/- mice displayed increased learning and memory,decreased anxiety-like behaviors,and highest synaptic plasticity compared with wild-type and homozygous GAT1-/- mice.Our results suggest that a moderate reduction in GAT1 activity causes the enhancement of learning and memory in mice.