Postsynaptista

Postsynaptista is a term encountered in a subset of neuroscience discussions to denote the collection of postsynaptic components and processes that translate presynaptic neurotransmitter release into a postsynaptic response. The term is not widely standardized and appears in only a limited set of publications, with different authors applying it with varying emphasis. In general, postsynaptista refers to the molecular machinery located in the postsynaptic density and surrounding regions that supports receptor signaling, plasticity, and structural changes at the receiving end of a synapse.

Scope and components commonly associated with postsynaptista include postsynaptic receptors such as NMDA and AMPA receptors, receptor auxiliary subunits, and scaffolding proteins (for example, members of the PSD-95 family). It also encompasses signaling enzymes such as CaMKII and various PKC and MAP kinase pathways, as well as cytoskeletal regulators that influence dendritic spine morphology. Receptor trafficking, including delivery and removal of receptors from the synapse, and calcium-dependent signaling cascades that link receptor activity to gene expression, are part of the concept. Together these elements support the integration of synaptic inputs and the modulation of synaptic strength.

Role in synaptic plasticity is central to the concept: alterations in postsynaptista components can underlie long-term potentiation and long-term depression by changing receptor number or function, modifying signaling efficiency, and reshaping spine structure. The term has appeared primarily as a descriptive label for postsynaptic signaling networks and the plasticity-related machinery, rather than as a formally defined category in major textbooks.

See also: postsynaptic density, synapse, receptor trafficking.