retrograde signaling
Communication from postsynaptic to presynaptic neurons that modulates neurotransmitter release.
Full Definition
Retrograde signaling refers to communication mechanisms whereby postsynaptic neurons send signals back to presynaptic terminals to modulate future neurotransmitter release. Common retrograde messengers include endocannabinoids, nitric oxide, and neurotrophins. These molecules are released from the postsynaptic cell and diffuse back to the presynaptic terminal, where they bind to specific receptors and alter synaptic strength. Retrograde signaling is crucial for various forms of synaptic plasticity, including long-term depression and homeostatic scaling. This bidirectional communication allows synapses to adjust their strength based on postsynaptic activity levels and is important for learning, memory, and neural development.
Usage
Usage note: Contrast with conventional anterograde synaptic transmission.
In Context
- "Endocannabinoid-mediated retrograde signaling suppressed inhibitory transmission." — Plasticity research
- "The study investigated nitric oxide as a retrograde messenger in hippocampal neurons." — Molecular neuroscience