Postsynaptic density proteins and their involvement in neurodevelopmental disorders

Abstract

Synaptic connections are essential for neural circuits in order to convey brain functions. The postsynaptic density (PSD) is a huge protein complex associated with postsynaptic membranes of excitatory synapses. In mammals, the PSD is composed of more than 1,000 proteins including receptors, scaffold proteins, signalling enzymes and cytoskeletal proteins. PSD proteins are crucial for synaptic transmission and plasticity. Proteomic studies have revealed the composition of PSD proteins in various species, brain regions and specific physiological conditions. Abnormalities with PSD proteins are linked to various neuropsychiatric diseases including neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. Here, we review different kinds of proteomic studies of the PSD and the involvement of PSD proteins in physiological and pathological conditions.