Synaptic vesicle fusion at synapses is triggered by increases in cytosolic Ca2+ levels. However, the identity of the Ca2+ sensor and the transduction mechanism of the Ca2+ trigger are unknown. We show that Complexins, stoichiometric components of the exocytotic core complex, are important regulators of transmitter release at a step immediately preceding vesicle fusion. Neurons lacking Complexins show a dramatically reduced transmitter release efficiency due to decreased Ca2+ sensitivity of the synaptic secretion process. Analyses of mutant neurons demonstrate that Complexins are acting at or following the Ca2+-triggering step of fast synchronous transmitter release by regulating the exocytotic Ca2+ sensor, its interaction with the core complex fusion machinery, or the efficiency of the fusion apparatus itself.
Pubmed ID: 11163241 RIS Download
Publication data is provided by the National Library of Medicine ® and PubMed ®. Data is retrieved from PubMed ® on a weekly schedule. For terms and conditions see the National Library of Medicine Terms and Conditions.
The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) has long been, and remains, a world-class research laboratory. Our primary goal is to understand biological processes at the molecular level, through the application of methods drawn from physics, chemistry and genetics. This quest extends from structural studies of individual macromolecules, through their interactions and beyond to the functioning of subcellular systems, cells and multicellular systems in whole organisms, with the ultimate aim of using this knowledge to tackle specific problems in human health and disease. The LMB is one of the birthplaces of modern molecular biology. Many techniques were pioneered at the laboratory, most notably methods for determining the three-dimensional structure of proteins and DNA sequencing. Whole genome sequencing was initiated at the LMB. Another landmark discovery was the invention of monoclonal antibodies. Over the years, the work of LMB scientists has attracted 9 Nobel Prizes, shared between 13 LMB scientists, as well as numerous other prizes and scientific awards.
View all literature mentions