Thenob2mouse, a null mutation inCacna1f: Anatomical and functional abnormalities in the outer retina and their consequences on ganglion cell visual responses

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Abstract
Glutamate release from photoreceptor terminals is controlled by voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDCCs). In humans, mutations in theCacna1fgene, encoding the α1Fsubunit of VDCCs, underlie the incomplete form of X-linked congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB2). These mutations impair synaptic transmission from rod and cone photoreceptors to bipolar cells. Here, we report anatomical and functional characterizations of the retina in thenob2(no b-wave 2) mouse, a naturally occurring mutant caused by a null mutation inCacna1f. Not surprisingly, theb-waves of both the light- and dark-adapted electroretinogram are abnormal innob2mice. The outer plexiform layer (OPL) is disorganized, with extension of ectopic neurites through the outer nuclear layer that originate from rod bipolar and horizontal cells, but not from hyperpolarizing bipolar cells. These ectopic neurites continue to express mGluR6, which is frequently associated with profiles that label with the presynaptic marker Ribeye, indicating potential points of ectopic synapse formation. However, the morphology of the presynaptic Ribeye-positive profiles is abnormal. While cone pedicles are present their morphology also appears compromised. Characterizations of visual responses in retinal ganglion cellsin vivo, under photopic conditions, demonstrate that ON-center cells have a reduced dynamic range, although their basic center-surround organization is retained; no alteration in the responses of OFF-center cells was evident. These results indicate thatnob2mice are a valuable model in which to explore the pathophysiological mechanisms associated withCacna1fmutations causing CSNB2, and the subsequent effects on visual information processing. Further, thenob2mouse represents a model system in which to define the signals that guide synapse formation and/or maintenance in the OPL.