Synaptic structural dynamics and aging

Abstract

Synaptic junctional areas are not immutable structures, on the contrary, they are remodelled throughout the individual's lifespan as a consequence of environmental stimulations. This adaptive capacity of the synapses is discussed from a morphological standpoint with reference to aging. In old subjects, the number of contacts and the total surface area of synaptic appositions per unit volume of tissue decrease significantly, while the average synaptic size increases at a different extent according to the CNS area taken into account. This increase in synaptic average area is due to a higher percent of a subpopulation of enlarged contacts supposed to represent either the degenerating junctional zones or a compensatory phenomenon counteracting the synaptic reduction in number. Recent studies on perforated synapses support that the enlarged junctions are possible intermediates in synaptic physiological restructuring, thus the higher percentage of this type of contacts in the old CNS may witness unaccomplished synaptic turnover cycles. Taking into account the high metabolic rate of nerve cells, an age-related impairment in energy provision at synaptic terminal regions may constitute an early and subtle alteration affecting synaptic dynamic morphology in aging.