Finding of Genes Regulating GABAergic Cortical Interneuron Maturation

Interneurons play a vital role in the wiring and circuitry of the developing nervous system of all organisms, both invertebrates and vertebrates alike. Generally speaking, an interneuron is a specialized type of neuron whose primary role is to form a connection between other types of neurons. The basic aim of the study is identification of genes regulating GABAergic cortical interneuron maturation. Fast GABAergic responses are mediated by GABAA receptors, chloride-permeable pentameric channels composed of an assembly of subunits from eight classes of subunits (α1–6, β1–3, γ1–3, δ, e, θ, π, and ρ1–3). Although receptor composition differs across neuronal subtypes, subunits most often assemble with a 2α:2β:γ stoichiometry. It is estimated that there are over 20 different subtypes of GABAergic interneurons in the cortex, and subtypes are also distinguished from one another based upon the calcium-binding proteins they express, which serve as markers. It is concluded that there is an extensively studied transcriptional network that plays a role in regulating proper development and specification of MGE-derived GABAergic cortical interneurons.