Transport-dependent and independent functions of KCC2 at excitatory synapses

Abstract This chapter explores non-canonical functions of the neuronal chloride/potassium KCC2 transporter at glutamatergic, excitatory synapses. The first section describes KCC2 expression and membrane dynamics in cortical neurons to show that KCC2 is enriched in dendritic spines that host excitatory synapses. Then, it reviews KCC2 protein binding partners, with a specific focus on those that may contribute to the specific confinement and role of KCC2 in dendritic spines. With this background, the next section describes how KCC2 contributes to both dendritic spine morphology and excitatory synaptic function and plasticity. The chapter ends with a discussion on the implications of the multiple functions of KCC2, in particular with respect to the pathology.