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GABAA receptors mediate most inhibitory synaptic transmission, and their assembly and trafficking in neurons is tightly regulated. Moss and colleagues review our current knowledge about the molecular mechanisms that regulate GABAAreceptor trafficking and their contribution to neuronal function.
Actin filaments are the major cytoskeletal elements at the pre- and postsynaptic terminals. Cingolani and Goda discuss how the organization and dynamics of actin filaments are central to the coordination of synapse structure and function.
The intrinsic properties of a neuron profoundly influence neuronal function and are governed by the ion channels found in different neuronal compartments. Here, Beck and Yaari discuss the mechanisms underlying the plasticity of these properties in various CNS disorders.
The molecular targets of anaesthetics and the neuronal mechanisms through which they induce reversible loss of consciousness have been long-standing mysteries. This Review discusses the most important anaesthetic targets and the implications of the latest imaging studies, which show that there are striking similarities between anaesthetic-induced loss of consciousness and deep sleep.
Synaptic plasticity is central to learning mechanisms, but what keeps the plasticity in check? Abraham reviews our current understanding of the mechanisms of metaplasticity — the plasticity of synaptic plasticity — and considers its importance for nervous system function and disease.
Early in their careers, students and postdoctoral researchers in neuroscience have to make important decisions that might have long-lasting consequences for their success as researchers. In this Viewpoint, four high-profile neuroscientists provide their thoughts on some of the issues they might want to consider.
