Synaptic plasticity: A molecular memory switch

Recent work shows that two molecules with major roles in synaptic plasticity - CaMKII and the NMDA receptor bind to each other. This binding activates CaMKII and triggers its autophosphorylation. In this state, it may act as a memory switch and strengthen synapses through enzymatic and structural processes. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.