Figure 2.

Activation of syn-NMDARs stimulates pro-survival signaling. DIV 14 cortical neurons were treated with bicuculline for 30 min (a and b) or 60 min (c). The levels of p-CREB, p-AKT, and activated caspase-3 were determined by western blot, and shown in a. Quantification (average±S.E.M.) from three independent experiments is shown in the right panel of a. The level of p-ERK1/2 (b) and Bdnf mRNA (c) was determined by western blot and RT-PCR, respectively. (d and e) There was no significant cell death in neurons treated with bicuculline for 30 min (d), or bicuculline or 15 μM NMDA for 24 h (e). NS, not significant