Abstract
mRNA transport and local translation in dendrites play key roles in use-dependent synaptic modification and in higher-order brain functions. RNG105, an RNA-binding protein, has previously been identified as a component of RNA granules that mediate dendritic mRNA localization and local translation. Here, we demonstrate that RNG105 knock-out in mice reduces the dendritic localization of mRNAs for Na+/K+ ATPase (NKA) subunit isoforms (i.e., α3, FXYD1, FXYD6, and FXYD7). The loss of dendritic mRNA localization is accompanied by the loss of function of NKA in dendrites without affecting the NKA function in the soma. Furthermore, we show that RNG105 deficiency affects the formation and maintenance of synapses and neuronal networks. These phenotypes are partly explained by an inhibition of NKA, which is known to influence synaptic functions as well as susceptibility to neurotoxicity. The present study first demonstrates the in vivo role of RNG105 in the dendritic localization of mRNAs and uncovers a novel link between dendritic mRNA localization and the development and maintenance of functional networks.