A novel function of the cell polarity-regulating kinase PAR-1/MARK in dendritic spines.

The article discusses a study on the localization of the cell polarity-regulating serine/threonine kinase, partitioning defective 1 (PAR-1) in the dendrites of mouse hippocampal neurons and its novel function in the maintenance of mature spine morphology by regulating microtubule (MT) dynamics. It was noted that the morphology of dendritic spines changes depending on sensory experiences. It also shown that PAR-1 has significant roles in various contexts of developing neurons.