CREB-dependent transcription and synaptic plasticity

The CREB family of transcription factors are involved in controlling the transcriptional responses to a wide range of extracellular signals in neurons. In this chapter we discuss the role of the CREB pathway in synaptic plasticity. We first describe how learning-related stimuli, of different nature and intensity, can activate signaling pathways that converge on the induction of CRE-driven gene expression and how the nuclear response orchestrated by CREB can alter future synaptic activity. Second, we will discuss how CREB's control of synaptic plasticity contributes to learning, memory and other complex brain function. Finally, we will briefly outline how dysfunction of this activation pathway can lead to psychiatric and neurological disorders.