The cytoskeleton, the framework of the cell, is responsible for the shape of neurons. The neuronal cytoskeleton is important for maintaining the structure and function of mature nerve cells and is involved in making functional contacts between these cells. This research project addresses events by which the process of protein phosphorylation may affect the organization and function of the neuronal cytoskeleton. Experiments utilizing a combination of in vivo and in vitro protein phosphorylation analysis techniques such as two-dimensional phosphopeptide mapping, isolation and sequencing of phosphopeptides and probes of interaction between cytoskeletal proteins will be performed to define the complex role of phosphorylation. Neuronal cytoskeletal proteins, fodrin and a newly recognized protein, HPN-350, characterized by an high number of phosphorylated groups, will be examined during subunit polymerization, axonal entry, and incorporation into the axonal cytoskeleton. Results of this study will provide additional information on neuronal cytoskeleton dynamics, pertinent to basic neurobiological issues of developmental growth and neuronal plasticity.
