# Signaling mechanism for synapse formation and function regulated by the release of GPI-anchored synaptogenic factors from astrocytes

> **NIH NIH R01** · UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH · 2020 · $333,594

## Abstract

Dynamic interplay between neurons and glia is critical to establish the proper structure and function of the
nervous system. In particular, astrocytes are powerful regulators of the multiple steps of synapse development
and function. However, we lack mechanistic understanding of how signaling molecules are delivered from
astrocytes to neurons to regulate the synaptogenesis. In this proposal, we present evidence that GDE3, the
major regulator of the glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored proteins on the astrocyte surface, is
required for synapse development and function. GDE3 facilitates the release of GPI-anchored proteins from
astrocytes in two modes: GPI-shedding and extracellular vesicular release. In this proposal, we will define the
release mechanism of the active form of synaptogenic factors and downstream effectors of GDE3. Importantly,
we will determine the specific role of GPI-anchorage in synapse development and function in the developing
brain. Our results will reveal a novel signaling mechanism of astrocyte-neuron communications and aid the
design of alternative therapeutic interventions for diseases caused by synaptogenic defects.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9951123
- **Project number:** 5R01NS102444-04
- **Recipient organization:** UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH
- **Principal Investigator:** Sung Jin Park
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $333,594
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2017-07-01 → 2022-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9951123

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9951123, Signaling mechanism for synapse formation and function regulated by the release of GPI-anchored synaptogenic factors from astrocytes (5R01NS102444-04). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-25 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9951123. Licensed CC0.

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