Leitmotifs in the biochemistry of LTP induction: amplification, integration and coordination

Hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP) is a robust and long-lasting form of synaptic plasticity that is the leading candidate for a cellular mechani sm contributing to mammalian learning and memory, Investigations over the p ast decade have revealed that the biochemistry of LTP induction involves me chanisms of great subtlety and complexity. This review highlights themes th at have emerged as a result of our increased knowledge of the signal transd uction pathways involved in the induction of NMDA receptor-dependent LTP in area CAI of the hippocampus. Among these themes are signal amplification, signal integration and signal coordination. Here we use these themes as an organizing context for reviewing the profusion of signaling mechanisms invo lved in the induction of LTP.