Protein Domain : Activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein IPR023263

Type	Family
Description	The Activity-Regulated Cytoskeleton-associated protein (Arc), also referred to as Arg3.1 (Activity-Regulated Gene), is an immediate-early gene predominantly found in mammals that has been related to synaptic plasticity, learning and memory processes [ , , , , ]. It has been shown that Arc/Arg3.1 expression increases with strong synaptic activation []. Its mRNA is transported to activated dendritic regions, conferring on the protein-distribution temporal correlation with the inducing stimulus and spatial specificity [, ].Via interactions with dynamin and endophilin isoforms, the Arc/Arg3.1 protein enhances receptor endocytosis [ ]. Specifically, it modulates trafficking of neuronal AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs) by accelerating endocytosis and reducing surface expression []. In particular, Arc/Arg3.1 has been shown to reduce the number of GluR2/3 receptors, leading to a decrease in AMPAR-mediated synaptic currents []. These observations are consistent with a role in homeostatic regulation of synaptic strength [, ].
Short Name	Arc