The mechanism of CaMKII regulation: from fertilization to encoding long-term memory

DRA lecture held by Assoc. Prof. Margaret Stratton, University of Massachusetts Amherst, United States

The Stratton Lab is focused on understanding molecular mechanisms of memory formation by dissecting the function and structural regulation of key proteins in this process. A major focus is CaMKII (calcium-calmodulin dependent protein kinase II) and its substrates/ binding partners, because CaMKII required for long-term memory formation. This dodecameric kinase complex has several fascinating biochemical and biophysical properties and is known to play a hallmark role in long-term memory. The Stratton Lab is focused on the study of CaMKII in three major areas: frequency activation, subunit exchange, and downstream effectors using a variety of biochemical and biophysical techniques, complemented by in cellulo experiments and microscopy, to demonstrate the physiological relevance of these phenomena. The overarching goal is to understand, at the molecular level, the protein regulation that drives synapse formation and maintenance.

The lecture is organised on behalf of the graduate programme in pharmaceutical sciences, Drug Research Academy, by Professor Petrine Wellendorph, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen.

The DRA lecture is free of charge and open for attendance by all interested parties. It is not necessary to pre-register.