Wnt signaling in the hippocampus in relation to neurogenesis, neuroplasticity, stress and epigenetics

Ramona A. J. Zwamborn, Clara Snijders, An Ning, Alix Thomson, Bart P. F. Rutten, Laurence de Nijs*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterAcademic

Abstract

The Wnt signaling pathway has been recognized as an important pathway, extending its function throughout the lifespan. Evidence suggests that dysfunctional Wnt signaling in the adult brain leads to aberrant neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, modulation of mature synapses and neurotransmitter release in the hippocampus. Due to the involvement of Wnt proteins in hippocampal functioning, altered Wnt signaling has been suggested to be an important factor in the pathophysiology of mood disorders. Interestingly, the effects of mood-stabilizing drugs are believed to work through interactions with Wnt molecules, and epigenetic mechanisms have been shown to interact with components of the Wnt pathway and impact mechanisms such as synaptic plasticity. This can affect learning and memory formation, in addition to various behavioral outcomes in individuals, when they are faced with stressful or conflict situations. This review will discuss the integrated role of Wnt signaling in the context of appropriate stress response, which is believed to be mediated by adult hippocampal neurogenesis and plasticity. Current knowledge regarding the role of Wnt signaling in mood disorders and antidepressant medication effect will be covered. Finally, the interplay between Wnt signaling and epigenetic mechanisms will be discussed along with their combined potential to impact neuroplasticity.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationNeuroepigenetics and Mental Illness
EditorsBPF Rutten
PublisherElsevier Science
Pages129-157
Number of pages29
Volume158
ISBN (Print)9780128125922
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2018

Publication series

SeriesProgress in Molecular Biology and Translational Science
Volume158
ISSN1877-1173

Keywords

  • RECEPTOR-RELATED PROTEIN-5
  • BETA-CATENIN
  • WNT/BETA-CATENIN
  • NEURONAL DIFFERENTIATION
  • SYNAPTIC PLASTICITY
  • DENTATE GYRUS
  • ADULT NEUROGENESIS
  • CELL-PROLIFERATION
  • SYNTHASE KINASE-3
  • DNA METHYLATION

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