Neuromuscular junction formation, aging, and disorders

L Li, WC Xiong, L Mei - Annual review of physiology, 2018 - annualreviews.org
Annual review of physiology, 2018annualreviews.org
Synapses, the fundamental unit in neuronal circuits, are critical for learning and memory,
perception, thinking, and reaction. The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is a synapse formed
between motoneurons and skeletal muscle fibers that is covered by Schwann cells (SCs). It
is essential for controlling muscle contraction. NMJ formation requires intimate interactions
among motoneurons, muscles, and SCs. Deficits in NMJ formation and maintenance cause
neuromuscular disorders, including congenital myasthenic syndrome and myasthenia …
Synapses, the fundamental unit in neuronal circuits, are critical for learning and memory, perception, thinking, and reaction. The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is a synapse formed between motoneurons and skeletal muscle fibers that is covered by Schwann cells (SCs). It is essential for controlling muscle contraction. NMJ formation requires intimate interactions among motoneurons, muscles, and SCs. Deficits in NMJ formation and maintenance cause neuromuscular disorders, including congenital myasthenic syndrome and myasthenia gravis. NMJ decline occurs in aged animals and may appear before clinical presentation of motoneuron disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. We review recent findings in NMJ formation, maintenance, neuromuscular disorders, and aging of the NMJ, focusing on communications among motoneurons, muscles and SCs, and underlying mechanisms.
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