Transcriptional control of Gad2

Abstract

Gad2 encodes GAD65, which is present preferentially in presynaptic terminals for synthesis of GABA for vesicle release. Gad2 is a regulatory target of cell activities in various brain functions and in GABA perturbation-related neurological diseases. However, our understanding of how Gad2 is transcriptionally regulated and how Gad2 transcription responds to changing cell environment under these conditions is still limited. This review discusses recent advances in the regulatory mechanisms for Gad2 transcription and highlights the characteristics of TATA-less Gad2 promoters and regulation of Gad2 transcription by CREB and by activity-dependent epigenetic modification of the chromatin structure in regulatory elements of the Gad2 gene. © 2012 Landes Bioscience.