Dendritic ion channels are essential for the regulation of intrinsic excitability as well as modulating the shape and integration of synaptic signals. Changes in dendritic channel function have been associated with many forms of synaptic plasticity. Recent evidence suggests that dendritic ion channel modulation and trafficking could contribute to plasticity-induced alterations in neuronal function. In this review we discuss our current knowledge of dendritic ion channel modulation and trafficking and their relationship to cellular and synaptic plasticity. We also consider the implications for neuronal function. We argue that to gain an insight into neuronal information processing it is essential to understand the regulation of dendritic ion channel expression and properties.
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