DAP5 promotes axonal outgrowth by increasing the translation of DSCR1.4

Abstract

Spatial and temporal regulation of protein synthesis in axon is important for axon outgrowth and steering. Down syndrome candidate region 1(DSCR1) regulates actin filaments formation and local translation in axon by controling calcineurin, phospatase. However, it is unknown whether DSCR1 mRNA is locally translated in axon. Here, we investigated that DSCR1.4 mRNA, one of DSCR1 isoform exist and is translated in both soma and axon. Not only cap-dependent but also cap-independent translation is important for DSCR1.4 protein synthesis. Translation of DSCR1.4 mRNA is increased by Death-associated protein 5 (DAP5). DSCR1.4 increased by DAP5 makes axons longer. These findings have implications for understanding relation of local translation and axon outgrowth, steering.