Possible role for cyclic nucleotides and phosphorylated membrane proteins in postsynaptic actions of neurotransmitters†

The model suggests a mechanism by which neurotransmitter signals may be converted into electrophysiological responses in postsynaptic cells.

Abstract

The postsynaptic actions of some neurotransmitters may be mediated through cyclic nucleotides and cyclic nucleotide-dependent phosphorylation of specific membrane proteins in postsynaptic cells. In addition to providing a molecular basis for the actions of several neurotransmitters and of certain drugs affecting behaviour, the model suggests a mechanism by which neurotransmitter signals may be converted into electrophysiological responses in postsynaptic cells.