Targeted deletion of [beta]III spectrin impairs synaptogenesis and generates ataxic and seizure phenotypes

The spectrin membrane skeleton controls the disposition of selected membrane channels, receptors, and transporters. In the brain [beta]III spectrin binds directly to the excitatory amino acid transporter (EAAT4), the glutamate receptor delta, and other proteins. Mutations in [beta]III spectrin link strongly to human spinocerebellar ataxia type 5 (SCA5), correlating with alterations in EAAT4. We have explored the mechanistic basis of this phenotype by targeted gene disruption of Spnb3. Mice lacking intact [beta]III spectrin develop normally. By 6 months they display a mild nonprogressive ataxia. By 1 year most [Spnb3.sup.-/-] animals develop a myoclonic seizure disorder with significant reductions of EAAT4, EAAT1, GluR[delta], IP3R, and NCAM140. Other synaptic proteins are normal. The cerebellum displays increased dark Purkinje cells (PC), a thin molecular layer, fewer synapses, a loss of dendritic spines, and a 2-fold expansion of the PC dendrite diameter. Membrane and expanded Golgi profiles fill the PC dendrite and soma, and both regions accumulate EAAT4. Correlating with the seizure disorder are enhanced hippocampal levels of neuropeptide Y and EAAT3 and increased calpain proteolysis of [alpha]II spectrin. It appears that [beta]III spectrin disruption impairs synaptogenesis by disturbing the intracellular pathways selectively regulating protein trafficking to the synapse. The mislocalization of these proteins secondarily disrupts glutamate transport dynamics, leading to seizures, neuronal damage, and compensatory changes in EAAT3 and neuropeptide Y. cytoskeleton | membrane | spinocerebellar ataxia type 5 | excitatory amino acid transporter 4 | Purkinje doi/10.1073/pnas.1001522107