Disruption of the expression of the proprotein convertase PC7 reduces BDNF production and affects learning and memory in mice
Résumé
Significance The 7-membered proprotein convertase (PC) family of basic amino acid-specific proteases is implicated in the cleavage-activation of secretory precursor proteins. Although the in vivo functions of most members have been well studied, those of the seventh member PC7 are largely unknown. Herein, we find that PC7 participates in the generation of mature BDNF both in cells and in specific brain areas such as hippocampus and amygdala. Indeed, PC7 exerts a critical role in the brain: The results of various behavioral tests in normal mice compared with those lacking PC7 expression support an in vivo role for PC7 in the regulation of certain types of cognitive performance, such as emotional memories, in part via BDNF activation.