1
|
Bose D, Bera M, Norman CA, Timofeeva Y, Volynski KE, Krishnakumar SS. A minimal presynaptic protein machinery mediating synchronous and asynchronous exocytosis and short-term plasticity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.15.589559. [PMID: 38659918 PMCID: PMC11042279 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.15.589559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Neurotransmitters are released from synaptic vesicles with remarkable precision in response to presynaptic Ca2+ influx but exhibit significant heterogeneity in exocytosis timing and efficacy based on the recent history of activity. This heterogeneity is critical for information transfer in the brain, yet its molecular basis remains poorly understood. Here, we employ a biochemically-defined fusion assay under physiologically-relevant conditions to delineate the minimal protein machinery sufficient to account for different modes of Ca2+-triggered vesicle fusion and short-term facilitation. We find that Synaptotagmin-1, Synaptotagmin-7, and Complexin, synergistically restrain SNARE complex assembly, thus preserving vesicles in a stably docked state at rest. Upon Ca2+ activation, Synaptotagmin-1 induces rapid vesicle fusion, while Synaptotagmin-7 mediates delayed fusion. Competitive binding of Synaptotagmin-1 and Synaptotagmin-7 to the same SNAREs, coupled with differential rates of Ca2+-triggered fusion clamp reversal, govern the kinetics of vesicular fusion. Under conditions mimicking sustained neuronal activity, the Synaptotagmin-7 fusion clamp is destabilized by the elevated basal Ca2+ concentration, thereby enhancing the synchronous component of fusion. These findings provide a direct demonstration that a small set of proteins is sufficient to account for how nerve terminals adapt and regulate the Ca2+-evoked neurotransmitter exocytosis process to support their specialized functions in the nervous system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dipayan Bose
- Yale Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Manindra Bera
- Yale Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
- Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Chris A Norman
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, UK
- Department of Computer Science, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Yulia Timofeeva
- Department of Computer Science, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Kirill E Volynski
- Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, UK
| | - Shyam S Krishnakumar
- Yale Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Bera M, Radhakrishnan A, Coleman J, K. Sundaram RV, Ramakrishnan S, Pincet F, Rothman JE. Synaptophysin chaperones the assembly of 12 SNAREpins under each ready-release vesicle. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2311484120. [PMID: 37903271 PMCID: PMC10636311 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2311484120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The synaptic vesicle protein Synaptophysin (Syp) has long been known to form a complex with the Vesicle associated soluble N-ethylmaleimide sensitive fusion protein attachment receptor (v-SNARE) Vesicle associated membrane protein (VAMP), but a more specific molecular function or mechanism of action in exocytosis has been lacking because gene knockouts have minimal effects. Utilizing fully defined reconstitution and single-molecule measurements, we now report that Syp functions as a chaperone that determines the number of SNAREpins assembling between a ready-release vesicle and its target membrane bilayer. Specifically, Syp directs the assembly of 12 ± 1 SNAREpins under each docked vesicle, even in the face of an excess of SNARE proteins. The SNAREpins assemble in successive waves of 6 ± 1 and 5 ± 2 SNAREpins, respectively, tightly linked to oligomerization of and binding to the vesicle Ca++ sensor Synaptotagmin. Templating of 12 SNAREpins by Syp is likely the direct result of its hexamer structure and its binding of VAMP2 dimers, both of which we demonstrate in detergent extracts and lipid bilayers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manindra Bera
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Abhijith Radhakrishnan
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Jeff Coleman
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - R. Venkat K. Sundaram
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Sathish Ramakrishnan
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Frederic Pincet
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Laboratoire de Physique Statistique, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris Sciences et Lettres Research University, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris Cité, 75005Paris, France
| | - James E. Rothman
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Rothman JE, Grushin K, Bera M, Pincet F. Turbocharging synaptic transmission. FEBS Lett 2023; 597:2233-2249. [PMID: 37643878 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Evidence from biochemistry, genetics, and electron microscopy strongly supports the idea that a ring of Synaptotagmin is central to the clamping and release of synaptic vesicles (SVs) for synchronous neurotransmission. Recent direct measurements in cell-free systems suggest there are 12 SNAREpins in each ready-release vesicle, consisting of six peripheral and six central SNAREpins. The six central SNAREpins are directly bound to the Synaptotagmin ring, are directly released by Ca++ , and they initially open the fusion pore. The six peripheral SNAREpins are indirectly bound to the ring, each linked to a central SNAREpin by a bridging molecule of Complexin. We suggest that the primary role of peripheral SNAREpins is to provide additional force to 'turbocharge' neurotransmitter release, explaining how it can occur much faster than other forms of membrane fusion. The SV protein Synaptophysin forms hexamers that bear two copies of the v-SNARE VAMP at each vertex, one likely assembling into a peripheral SNAREpin and the other into a central SNAREpin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James E Rothman
- Nanobiology Institute and Department of Cell Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Kirill Grushin
- Nanobiology Institute and Department of Cell Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Manindra Bera
- Nanobiology Institute and Department of Cell Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Frederic Pincet
- Nanobiology Institute and Department of Cell Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Laboratoire de Physique de l'Ecole Normale Supérieure, ENS, Université PSL, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kalyana Sundaram RV, Chatterjee A, Bera M, Grushin K, Panda A, Li F, Coleman J, Lee S, Ramakrishnan S, Ernst AM, Gupta K, Rothman JE, Krishnakumar SS. Roles for diacylglycerol in synaptic vesicle priming and release revealed by complete reconstitution of core protein machinery. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2309516120. [PMID: 37590407 PMCID: PMC10450444 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2309516120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we introduce the full functional reconstitution of genetically validated core protein machinery (SNAREs, Munc13, Munc18, Synaptotagmin, and Complexin) for synaptic vesicle priming and release in a geometry that enables detailed characterization of the fate of docked vesicles both before and after release is triggered with Ca2+. Using this setup, we identify new roles for diacylglycerol (DAG) in regulating vesicle priming and Ca2+-triggered release involving the SNARE assembly chaperone Munc13. We find that low concentrations of DAG profoundly accelerate the rate of Ca2+-dependent release, and high concentrations reduce clamping and permit extensive spontaneous release. As expected, DAG also increases the number of docked, release-ready vesicles. Dynamic single-molecule imaging of Complexin binding to release-ready vesicles directly establishes that DAG accelerates the rate of SNAREpin assembly mediated by chaperones, Munc13 and Munc18. The selective effects of physiologically validated mutations confirmed that the Munc18-Syntaxin-VAMP2 "template" complex is a functional intermediate in the production of primed, release-ready vesicles, which requires the coordinated action of Munc13 and Munc18.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R. Venkat Kalyana Sundaram
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Atrouli Chatterjee
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Manindra Bera
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Kirill Grushin
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Aniruddha Panda
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Feng Li
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Jeff Coleman
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Seong Lee
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Sathish Ramakrishnan
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Andreas M. Ernst
- School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA92093
| | - Kallol Gupta
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - James E. Rothman
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Shyam S. Krishnakumar
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bera M, Radhakrishnan A, Coleman J, Sundaram RVK, Ramakrishnan S, Pincet F, Rothman JE. Synaptophysin Chaperones the Assembly of 12 SNAREpins under each Ready-Release Vesicle. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.05.547834. [PMID: 37461465 PMCID: PMC10349951 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.05.547834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
The synaptic vesicle protein Synaptophysin has long been known to form a complex with the v-SNARE VAMP, but a more specific molecular function or mechanism of action in exocytosis has been lacking because gene knockouts have minimal effects. Utilizing fully-defined reconstitution and single-molecule measurements, we now report that Synaptophysin functions as a chaperone that determines the number of SNAREpins assembling between a ready-release vesicle and its target membrane bilayer. Specifically, Synaptophysin directs the assembly of 12 ± 1 SNAREpins under each docked vesicle, even in the face of an excess of SNARE proteins. The SNAREpins assemble in successive waves of 6 ± 1 and 5 ± 2 SNAREpins, respectively, tightly linked to oligomerization of and binding to the vesicle Ca++ sensor Synaptotagmin. Templating of 12 SNAREpins by Synaptophysin is likely the direct result of its hexamer structure and its binding of VAMP2 dimers, both of which we demonstrate in detergent extracts and lipid bilayers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manindra Bera
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Abhijith Radhakrishnan
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Jeff Coleman
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Ramalingam Venkat Kalyana Sundaram
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Sathish Ramakrishnan
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Frederic Pincet
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Laboratoire de Physique de l’Ecole normale supérieure, ENS, Université PSL, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - James E. Rothman
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Thoduvayil S, Weerakkody JS, Sundaram RVK, Topper M, Bera M, Coleman J, Li X, Mariappan M, Ramakrishnan S. Rapid Quantification of First and Second Phase Insulin Secretion Dynamics using an In vitro Platform for Improving Insulin Therapy. Cell Calcium 2023; 113:102766. [PMID: 37295201 PMCID: PMC10450995 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2023.102766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
High-throughput quantification of the first- and second-phase insulin secretion dynamics is intractable with current methods. The fact that independent secretion phases play distinct roles in metabolism necessitates partitioning them separately and performing high-throughput compound screening to target them individually. We developed an insulin-nanoluc luciferase reporter system to dissect the molecular and cellular pathways involved in the separate phases of insulin secretion. We validated this method through genetic studies, including knockdown and overexpression, as well as small-molecule screening and their effects on insulin secretion. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the results of this method are well correlated with those of single-vesicle exocytosis experiments conducted on live cells, providing a quantitative reference for the approach. Thus, we have developed a robust methodology for screening small molecules and cellular pathways that target specific phases of insulin secretion, resulting in a better understanding of insulin secretion, which in turn will result in a more effective insulin therapy through the stimulation of endogenous glucose-stimulated insulin secretion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sikha Thoduvayil
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, 06516 USA; Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520 USA
| | - Jonathan S Weerakkody
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, 06516 USA; Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520 USA
| | - Ramalingam Venkat Kalyana Sundaram
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, 06516 USA; Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520 USA
| | - Mackenzie Topper
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, 06516 USA
| | - Manindra Bera
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, 06516 USA; Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520 USA
| | - Jeff Coleman
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, 06516 USA; Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520 USA
| | - Xia Li
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, 06516 USA; Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520 USA
| | - Malaiyalam Mariappan
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, 06516 USA; Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520 USA
| | - Sathish Ramakrishnan
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, 06516 USA; Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520 USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Sundaram RVK, Chatterjee A, Bera M, Grushin K, Panda A, Li F, Coleman J, Lee S, Ramakrishnan S, Ernst AM, Gupta K, Rothman JE, Krishnakumar SS. Novel Roles for Diacylglycerol in Synaptic Vesicle Priming and Release Revealed by Complete Reconstitution of Core Protein Machinery. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.05.543781. [PMID: 37333317 PMCID: PMC10274626 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.05.543781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Here we introduce the full functional reconstitution of genetically-validated core protein machinery (SNAREs, Munc13, Munc18, Synaptotagmin, Complexin) for synaptic vesicle priming and release in a geometry that enables detailed characterization of the fate of docked vesicles both before and after release is triggered with Ca 2+ . Using this novel setup, we discover new roles for diacylglycerol (DAG) in regulating vesicle priming and Ca 2+- triggered release involving the SNARE assembly chaperone Munc13. We find that low concentrations of DAG profoundly accelerate the rate of Ca 2+ -dependent release, and high concentrations reduce clamping and permit extensive spontaneous release. As expected, DAG also increases the number of ready-release vesicles. Dynamic single-molecule imaging of Complexin binding to ready-release vesicles directly establishes that DAG accelerates the rate of SNAREpin assembly mediated by Munc13 and Munc18 chaperones. The selective effects of physiologically validated mutations confirmed that the Munc18-Syntaxin-VAMP2 'template' complex is a functional intermediate in the production of primed, ready-release vesicles, which requires the coordinated action of Munc13 and Munc18. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Munc13 and Munc18 are SNARE-associated chaperones that act as "priming" factors, facilitating the formation of a pool of docked, release-ready vesicles and regulating Ca 2+ -evoked neurotransmitter release. Although important insights into Munc18/Munc13 function have been gained, how they assemble and operate together remains enigmatic. To address this, we developed a novel biochemically-defined fusion assay which enabled us to investigate the cooperative action of Munc13 and Munc18 in molecular terms. We find that Munc18 nucleates the SNARE complex, while Munc13 promotes and accelerates the SNARE assembly in a DAG-dependent manner. The concerted action of Munc13 and Munc18 stages the SNARE assembly process to ensure efficient 'clamping' and formation of stably docked vesicles, which can be triggered to fuse rapidly (∼10 msec) upon Ca 2+ influx.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Venkat Kalyana Sundaram
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Atrouli Chatterjee
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Manindra Bera
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Kirill Grushin
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Aniruddha Panda
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Feng Li
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Jeff Coleman
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Seong Lee
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Sathish Ramakrishnan
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Andreas M. Ernst
- School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla CA 92093, USA
| | - Kallol Gupta
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - James E. Rothman
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Shyam S. Krishnakumar
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wu X, Qiu H, Zhang M. Interactions between Membraneless Condensates and Membranous Organelles at the Presynapse: A Phase Separation View of Synaptic Vesicle Cycle. J Mol Biol 2023; 435:167629. [PMID: 35595170 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2022.167629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Action potential-induced neurotransmitter release in presynaptic boutons involves coordinated actions of a large list of proteins that are associated directly or indirectly with membrane structures including synaptic vesicles and plasma membranes. These proteins are often highly abundant in different synaptic bouton sub-compartments, and they rarely act alone. Instead, these proteins interact with each other forming intricate and distinct molecular complexes. Many of these complexes form condensed clusters on membrane surfaces. This review summarizes findings in recent years showing that many of presynaptic protein complex assemblies are formed via phase separation. These protein condensates extensively interact with lipid membranes via distinct modes, forming various mesoscale structures by different mode of organizations between membraneless condensates and membranous organelles. We discuss that such mesoscale interactions could have deep implications on mobilization, exocytosis, and retrieval of synaptic vesicles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiandeng Wu
- Division of Life Science, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hua Qiu
- Division of Life Science, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mingjie Zhang
- Greater Bay Biomedical Innocenter, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518036, China; School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kalyana Sundaram RV, Bera M, Coleman J, Weerakkody JS, Krishnakumar SS, Ramakrishnan S. Native Planar Asymmetric Suspended Membrane for Single-Molecule Investigations: Plasma Membrane on a Chip. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2022; 18:e2205567. [PMID: 36328714 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202205567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Cellular plasma membranes, in their role as gatekeepers to the external environment, host numerous protein assemblies and lipid domains that manage the movement of molecules into and out of cells, regulate electric potential, and direct cell signaling. The ability to investigate these roles on the bilayer at a single-molecule level in a controlled, in vitro environment while preserving lipid and protein architectures will provide deeper insights into how the plasma membrane works. A tunable silicon microarray platform that supports stable, planar, and asymmetric suspended lipid membranes (SLIM) using synthetic and native plasma membrane vesicles for single-molecule fluorescence investigations is developed. Essentially, a "plasma membrane-on-a-chip" system that preserves lipid asymmetry and protein orientation is created. By harnessing the combined potential of this platform with total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy, the authors are able to visualize protein complexes with single-molecule precision. This technology has widespread applications in biological processes that happen at the cellular membranes and will further the knowledge of lipid and protein assemblies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramalingam Venkat Kalyana Sundaram
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Manindra Bera
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Jeff Coleman
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Jonathan S Weerakkody
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Shyam S Krishnakumar
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Sathish Ramakrishnan
- Nanobiology Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Cui L, Li H, Xi Y, Hu Q, Liu H, Fan J, Xiang Y, Zhang X, Shui W, Lai Y. Vesicle trafficking and vesicle fusion: mechanisms, biological functions, and their implications for potential disease therapy. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2022; 3:29. [PMID: 36129576 PMCID: PMC9492833 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-022-00090-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracellular vesicle trafficking is the fundamental process to maintain the homeostasis of membrane-enclosed organelles in eukaryotic cells. These organelles transport cargo from the donor membrane to the target membrane through the cargo containing vesicles. Vesicle trafficking pathway includes vesicle formation from the donor membrane, vesicle transport, and vesicle fusion with the target membrane. Coat protein mediated vesicle formation is a delicate membrane budding process for cargo molecules selection and package into vesicle carriers. Vesicle transport is a dynamic and specific process for the cargo containing vesicles translocation from the donor membrane to the target membrane. This process requires a group of conserved proteins such as Rab GTPases, motor adaptors, and motor proteins to ensure vesicle transport along cytoskeletal track. Soluble N-ethyl-maleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) attachment protein receptors (SNARE)-mediated vesicle fusion is the final process for vesicle unloading the cargo molecules at the target membrane. To ensure vesicle fusion occurring at a defined position and time pattern in eukaryotic cell, multiple fusogenic proteins, such as synaptotagmin (Syt), complexin (Cpx), Munc13, Munc18 and other tethering factors, cooperate together to precisely regulate the process of vesicle fusion. Dysfunctions of the fusogenic proteins in SNARE-mediated vesicle fusion are closely related to many diseases. Recent studies have suggested that stimulated membrane fusion can be manipulated pharmacologically via disruption the interface between the SNARE complex and Ca2+ sensor protein. Here, we summarize recent insights into the molecular mechanisms of vesicle trafficking, and implications for the development of new therapeutics based on the manipulation of vesicle fusion.
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhu J, McDargh ZA, Li F, Krishnakumar SS, Rothman JE, O’Shaughnessy B. Synaptotagmin rings as high-sensitivity regulators of synaptic vesicle docking and fusion. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2208337119. [PMID: 36103579 PMCID: PMC9499556 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2208337119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Synchronous release at neuronal synapses is accomplished by a machinery that senses calcium influx and fuses the synaptic vesicle and plasma membranes to release neurotransmitters. Previous studies suggested the calcium sensor synaptotagmin (Syt) is a facilitator of vesicle docking and both a facilitator and inhibitor of fusion. On phospholipid monolayers, the Syt C2AB domain spontaneously oligomerized into rings that are disassembled by Ca2+, suggesting Syt rings may clamp fusion as membrane-separating "washers" until Ca2+-mediated disassembly triggers fusion and release [J. Wang et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 111, 13966-13971 (2014)].). Here, we combined mathematical modeling with experiment to measure the mechanical properties of Syt rings and to test this mechanism. Consistent with experimental results, the model quantitatively recapitulates observed Syt ring-induced dome and volcano shapes on phospholipid monolayers and predicts rings are stabilized by anionic phospholipid bilayers or bulk solution with ATP. The selected ring conformation is highly sensitive to membrane composition and bulk ATP levels, a property that may regulate vesicle docking and fusion in ATP-rich synaptic terminals. We find the Syt molecules hosted by a synaptic vesicle oligomerize into a halo, unbound from the vesicle, but in proximity to sufficiently phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2)-rich plasma membrane (PM) domains, the PM-bound trans Syt ring conformation is preferred. Thus, the Syt halo serves as landing gear for spatially directed docking at PIP2-rich sites that define the active zones of exocytotic release, positioning the Syt ring to clamp fusion and await calcium. Our results suggest the Syt ring is both a Ca2+-sensitive fusion clamp and a high-fidelity sensor for directed docking.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhu
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Zachary A. McDargh
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520
| | | | - James E. Rothman
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Ben O’Shaughnessy
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Rizo J, David G, Fealey ME, Jaczynska K. On the difficulties of characterizing weak protein interactions that are critical for neurotransmitter release. FEBS Open Bio 2022; 12:1912-1938. [PMID: 35986639 PMCID: PMC9623538 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanism of neurotransmitter release has been extensively characterized, showing that vesicle fusion is mediated by the SNARE complex formed by syntaxin-1, SNAP-25 and synaptobrevin. This complex is disassembled by N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor (NSF) and SNAPs to recycle the SNAREs, whereas Munc18-1 and Munc13s organize SNARE complex assembly in an NSF-SNAP-resistant manner. Synaptotagmin-1 acts as the Ca2+ sensor that triggers exocytosis in a tight interplay with the SNAREs and complexins. Here, we review technical aspects associated with investigation of protein interactions underlying these steps, which is hindered because the release machinery is assembled between two membranes and is highly dynamic. Moreover, weak interactions, which are difficult to characterize, play key roles in neurotransmitter release, for instance by lowering energy barriers that need to be overcome in this highly regulated process. We illustrate the crucial role that structural biology has played in uncovering mechanisms underlying neurotransmitter release, but also discuss the importance of considering the limitations of the techniques used, including lessons learned from research in our lab and others. In particular, we emphasize: (a) the promiscuity of some protein sequences, including membrane-binding regions that can mediate irrelevant interactions with proteins in the absence of their native targets; (b) the need to ensure that weak interactions observed in crystal structures are biologically relevant; and (c) the limitations of isothermal titration calorimetry to analyze weak interactions. Finally, we stress that even studies that required re-interpretation often helped to move the field forward by improving our understanding of the system and providing testable hypotheses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Josep Rizo
- Department of BiophysicsUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA,Department of BiochemistryUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA,Department of PharmacologyUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA
| | - Guillaume David
- Department of BiophysicsUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA,Department of BiochemistryUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA,Department of PharmacologyUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA
| | - Michael E. Fealey
- Department of BiophysicsUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA,Department of BiochemistryUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA,Department of PharmacologyUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA
| | - Klaudia Jaczynska
- Department of BiophysicsUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA,Department of BiochemistryUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA,Department of PharmacologyUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTXUSA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
Major recent advances and previous data have led to a plausible model of how key proteins mediate neurotransmitter release. In this model, the soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) attachment protein (SNAP) receptor (SNARE) proteins syntaxin-1, SNAP-25, and synaptobrevin form tight complexes that bring the membranes together and are crucial for membrane fusion. NSF and SNAPs disassemble SNARE complexes and ensure that fusion occurs through an exquisitely regulated pathway that starts with Munc18-1 bound to a closed conformation of syntaxin-1. Munc18-1 also binds to synaptobrevin, forming a template to assemble the SNARE complex when Munc13-1 opens syntaxin-1 while bridging the vesicle and plasma membranes. Synaptotagmin-1 and complexin bind to partially assembled SNARE complexes, likely stabilizing them and preventing fusion until Ca2+ binding to synaptotagmin-1 causes dissociation from the SNARE complex and induces interactions with phospholipids that help trigger release. Although fundamental questions remain about the mechanism of membrane fusion, these advances provide a framework to investigate the mechanisms underlying presynaptic plasticity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Josep Rizo
- Departments of Biophysics, Biochemistry, and Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bera M, Ramakrishnan S, Coleman J, Krishnakumar SS, Rothman JE. Molecular determinants of complexin clamping and activation function. eLife 2022; 11:e71938. [PMID: 35442188 PMCID: PMC9020821 DOI: 10.7554/elife.71938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Previously we reported that Synaptotagmin-1 and Complexin synergistically clamp the SNARE assembly process to generate and maintain a pool of docked vesicles that fuse rapidly and synchronously upon Ca2+ influx (Ramakrishnan et al., 2020). Here, using the same in vitro single-vesicle fusion assay, we determine the molecular details of the Complexin-mediated fusion clamp and its role in Ca2+-activation. We find that a delay in fusion kinetics, likely imparted by Synaptotagmin-1, is needed for Complexin to block fusion. Systematic truncation/mutational analyses reveal that continuous alpha-helical accessory-central domains of Complexin are essential for its inhibitory function and specific interaction of the accessory helix with the SNAREpins enhances this functionality. The C-terminal domain promotes clamping by locally elevating Complexin concentration through interactions with the membrane. Independent of their clamping functions, the accessory-central helical domains of Complexin also contribute to rapid Ca2+-synchronized vesicle release by increasing the probability of fusion from the clamped state.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manindra Bera
- Yale Nanobiology InstituteNew HavenUnited States
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
| | - Sathish Ramakrishnan
- Yale Nanobiology InstituteNew HavenUnited States
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
| | - Jeff Coleman
- Yale Nanobiology InstituteNew HavenUnited States
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
| | - Shyam S Krishnakumar
- Yale Nanobiology InstituteNew HavenUnited States
- Departments of Neurology, Yale University School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
| | - James E Rothman
- Yale Nanobiology InstituteNew HavenUnited States
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of MedicineNew HavenUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Munc13 structural transitions and oligomers that may choreograph successive stages in vesicle priming for neurotransmitter release. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:2121259119. [PMID: 35135883 PMCID: PMC8851502 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2121259119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The speed of neural information processing in the human central nervous system is ultimately determined by the speed of chemical transmission at synapses, because action potentials have relatively short distances to traverse. The release of synaptic vesicles containing neurotransmitters must therefore be remarkably fast as compared to other forms of membrane fusion. Six separate SNARE complexes cooperate to achieve this. But how can exactly six copies be assembled under every vesicle? Here we report that six copies of the key molecular chaperone that assembles the SNAREs can arrange themselves into a closed hexagon, providing the likely answer. How can exactly six SNARE complexes be assembled under each synaptic vesicle? Here we report cryo-EM crystal structures of the core domain of Munc13, the key chaperone that initiates SNAREpin assembly. The functional core of Munc13, consisting of C1–C2B–MUN–C2C (Munc13C) spontaneously crystallizes between phosphatidylserine-rich bilayers in two distinct conformations, each in a radically different oligomeric state. In the open conformation (state 1), Munc13C forms upright trimers that link the two bilayers, separating them by ∼21 nm. In the closed conformation, six copies of Munc13C interact to form a lateral hexamer elevated ∼14 nm above the bilayer. Open and closed conformations differ only by a rigid body rotation around a flexible hinge, which when performed cooperatively assembles Munc13 into a lateral hexamer (state 2) in which the key SNARE assembly-activating site of Munc13 is autoinhibited by its neighbor. We propose that each Munc13 in the lateral hexamer ultimately assembles a single SNAREpin, explaining how only and exactly six SNARE complexes are templated. We suggest that state 1 and state 2 may represent two successive states in the synaptic vesicle supply chain leading to “primed” ready-release vesicles in which SNAREpins are clamped and ready to release (state 3).
Collapse
|
16
|
Dietz J, Oelkers M, Hubrich R, Pérez-Lara A, Jahn R, Steinem C, Janshoff A. Forces, Kinetics, and Fusion Efficiency Altered by the Full-Length Synaptotagmin-1 -PI(4,5)P 2 Interaction in Constrained Geometries. NANO LETTERS 2022; 22:1449-1455. [PMID: 34855407 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.1c02491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
A mechanism for full-length synaptotagmin-1 (syt-1) to interact with anionic bilayers and to promote fusion in the presence of SNAREs is proposed. Colloidal probe force spectroscopy in conjunction with tethered particle motion monitoring showed that in the absence of Ca2+ the binding of syt-1 to membranes depends on the presence and content of PI(4,5)P2. Addition of Ca2+ switches the interaction forces from weak to strong, eventually exceeding the cohesion of the C2A domain of syt-1 leading to partial unfolding of the protein. Fusion of single unilamellar vesicles equipped with syt-1 and synaptobrevin 2 with planar pore-spanning target membranes containing PS and PI(4,5)P2 shows an almost complete suppression of stalled intermediate fusion states and an accelerated fusion kinetics in the presence of Ca2+, which is further enhanced upon addition of ATP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joern Dietz
- Institute for Physical Chemistry, Georg-August Universität, Tammannstr. 6, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Marieelen Oelkers
- Institute for Physical Chemistry, Georg-August Universität, Tammannstr. 6, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Raphael Hubrich
- Institute for Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, Georg-August Universität, Tammannstr. 2, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Angel Pérez-Lara
- Department of Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Am Faβberg 11, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Reinhard Jahn
- Department of Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Am Faβberg 11, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Claudia Steinem
- Institute for Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, Georg-August Universität, Tammannstr. 2, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Andreas Janshoff
- Institute for Physical Chemistry, Georg-August Universität, Tammannstr. 6, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Huber LA. Presenting the FEBS Letters virtual issue on vesicle biology. FEBS Lett 2021; 595:2978-2980. [PMID: 34783009 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
|
18
|
Bera M, Ramakrishnan S, Coleman J, Krishnakumar SS, Rothman JE. Molecular Determinants of Complexin Clamping in Reconstituted Single-Vesicle Fusion.. [DOI: 10.1101/2021.07.05.451112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACTPreviously we reported that Synaptotagmin-1 and Complexin synergistically clamp the SNARE assembly process to generate and maintain a pool of docked vesicles that fuse rapidly and synchronously upon Ca2+ influx (Ramakrishnan et al. 2020). Here using the same in vitro single-vesicle fusion assay, we establish the molecular details of the Complexin clamp and its physiological relevance. We find that a delay in fusion kinetics, likely imparted by Synaptotagmin-1, is needed for Complexin to block fusion. Systematic truncation/mutational analyses reveal that continuous alpha-helical accessory-central domains of Complexin are essential for its inhibitory function and specific interaction of the accessory helix with the SNAREpins, analogous to the trans clamping model, enhances this functionality. The c-terminal domain promotes clamping by locally elevating Complexin concentration through interactions with the membrane. Further, we find that Complexin likely contributes to rapid Ca2+-synchronized vesicular release by preventing un-initiated fusion rather than by directly facilitating vesicle fusion.
Collapse
|
19
|
Function of Drosophila Synaptotagmins in membrane trafficking at synapses. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:4335-4364. [PMID: 33619613 PMCID: PMC8164606 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03788-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The Synaptotagmin (SYT) family of proteins play key roles in regulating membrane trafficking at neuronal synapses. Using both Ca2+-dependent and Ca2+-independent interactions, several SYT isoforms participate in synchronous and asynchronous fusion of synaptic vesicles (SVs) while preventing spontaneous release that occurs in the absence of stimulation. Changes in the function or abundance of the SYT1 and SYT7 isoforms alter the number and route by which SVs fuse at nerve terminals. Several SYT family members also regulate trafficking of other subcellular organelles at synapses, including dense core vesicles (DCV), exosomes, and postsynaptic vesicles. Although SYTs are linked to trafficking of multiple classes of synaptic membrane compartments, how and when they interact with lipids, the SNARE machinery and other release effectors are still being elucidated. Given mutations in the SYT family cause disorders in both the central and peripheral nervous system in humans, ongoing efforts are defining how these proteins regulate vesicle trafficking within distinct neuronal compartments. Here, we review the Drosophila SYT family and examine their role in synaptic communication. Studies in this invertebrate model have revealed key similarities and several differences with the predicted activity of their mammalian counterparts. In addition, we highlight the remaining areas of uncertainty in the field and describe outstanding questions on how the SYT family regulates membrane trafficking at nerve terminals.
Collapse
|
20
|
Radhakrishnan A, Li X, Grushin K, Krishnakumar SS, Liu J, Rothman JE. Symmetrical arrangement of proteins under release-ready vesicles in presynaptic terminals. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2024029118. [PMID: 33468631 PMCID: PMC7865176 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2024029118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Controlled release of neurotransmitters stored in synaptic vesicles (SVs) is a fundamental process that is central to all information processing in the brain. This relies on tight coupling of the SV fusion to action potential-evoked presynaptic Ca2+ influx. This Ca2+-evoked release occurs from a readily releasable pool (RRP) of SVs docked to the plasma membrane (PM). The protein components involved in initial SV docking/tethering and the subsequent priming reactions which make the SV release ready are known. Yet, the supramolecular architecture and sequence of molecular events underlying SV release are unclear. Here, we use cryoelectron tomography analysis in cultured hippocampal neurons to delineate the arrangement of the exocytosis machinery under docked SVs. Under native conditions, we find that vesicles are initially "tethered" to the PM by a variable number of protein densities (∼10 to 20 nm long) with no discernible organization. In contrast, we observe exactly six protein masses, each likely consisting of a single SNAREpin with its bound Synaptotagmins and Complexin, arranged symmetrically connecting the "primed" vesicles to the PM. Our data indicate that the fusion machinery is likely organized into a highly cooperative framework during the priming process which enables rapid SV fusion and neurotransmitter release following Ca2+ influx.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Xia Li
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520
- Microbial Sciences Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Kirill Grushin
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Shyam S Krishnakumar
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520;
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520;
- Microbial Sciences Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - James E Rothman
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520;
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Bykhovskaia M. SNARE complex alters the interactions of the Ca 2+ sensor synaptotagmin 1 with lipid bilayers. Biophys J 2021; 120:642-661. [PMID: 33453271 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2020.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Release of neuronal transmitters from nerve terminals is triggered by the molecular Ca2+ sensor synaptotagmin 1 (Syt1). Syt1 is a transmembrane protein attached to the synaptic vesicle (SV), and its cytosolic region comprises two domains, C2A and C2B, which are thought to penetrate into lipid bilayers upon Ca2+ binding. Before fusion, SVs become attached to the presynaptic membrane (PM) by the four-helical SNARE complex, which is thought to bind the C2B domain in vivo. To understand how the interactions of Syt1 with lipid bilayers and the SNARE complex trigger fusion, we performed molecular dynamics (MD) simulations at a microsecond scale. We investigated how the isolated C2 modules and the C2AB tandem of Syt1 interact with membranes mimicking either SV or PM. The simulations showed that the C2AB tandem can either bridge SV and PM or insert into PM with its Ca2+-bound tips and that the latter configuration is more favorable. Surprisingly, C2 domains did not cooperate in penetrating into PM but instead mutually hindered their insertion into the bilayer. To test whether the interaction of Syt1 with lipid bilayers could be affected by the C2B-SNARE attachment, we performed systematic conformational analysis of the C2AB-SNARE complex. Notably, we found that the C2B-SNARE interface precludes the coupling of C2 domains and promotes their insertion into PM. We performed the MD simulations of the prefusion protein complex positioned between the lipid bilayers mimicking PM and SV, and our results demonstrated in silico that the presence of the Ca2+ bound C2AB tandem promotes lipid merging. Altogether, our MD simulations elucidated the role of the Syt1-SNARE interactions in the fusion process and produced the dynamic all-atom model of the prefusion protein-lipid complex.
Collapse
|
22
|
Mühlenbrock P, Sari M, Steinem C. In vitro single vesicle fusion assays based on pore-spanning membranes: merits and drawbacks. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL: EBJ 2020; 50:239-252. [PMID: 33320298 PMCID: PMC8071798 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-020-01479-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal fusion mediated by soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive-factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) is a fundamental cellular process by which two initially distinct membranes merge resulting in one interconnected structure to release neurotransmitters into the presynaptic cleft. To get access to the different stages of the fusion process, several in vitro assays have been developed. In this review, we provide a short overview of the current in vitro single vesicle fusion assays. Among those assays, we developed a single vesicle assay based on pore-spanning membranes (PSMs) on micrometre-sized pores in silicon, which might overcome some of the drawbacks associated with the other membrane architectures used for investigating fusion processes. Prepared by spreading of giant unilamellar vesicles with reconstituted t-SNAREs, PSMs provide an alternative tool to supported lipid bilayers to measure single vesicle fusion events by means of fluorescence microscopy. Here, we discuss the diffusive behaviour of the reconstituted membrane components as well as that of the fusing synthetic vesicles with reconstituted synaptobrevin 2 (v-SNARE). We compare our results with those obtained if the synthetic vesicles are replaced by natural chromaffin granules under otherwise identical conditions. The fusion efficiency as well as the different fusion states observable in this assay by means of both lipid mixing and content release are illuminated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Mühlenbrock
- Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Institute of Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, Tammannstr. 2, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Merve Sari
- Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Institute of Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, Tammannstr. 2, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Claudia Steinem
- Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Institute of Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, Tammannstr. 2, 37077, Göttingen, Germany. .,Max-Planck-Institute for Dynamics and Self Organization, Am Faßberg 17, 37077, Göttingen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Synaptotagmin-1 membrane binding is driven by the C2B domain and assisted cooperatively by the C2A domain. Sci Rep 2020; 10:18011. [PMID: 33093513 PMCID: PMC7581758 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-74923-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptotagmin interaction with anionic lipid (phosphatidylserine/phosphatidylinositol) containing membranes, both in the absence and presence of calcium ions (Ca2+), is critical to its central role in orchestrating neurotransmitter release. The molecular surfaces involved, namely the conserved polylysine motif in the C2B domain and Ca2+-binding aliphatic loops on both C2A and C2B domains, are known. Here we use surface force apparatus combined with systematic mutational analysis of the functional surfaces to directly measure Syt1-membrane interaction and fully map the site-binding energetics of Syt1 both in the absence and presence of Ca2+. By correlating energetics data with the molecular rearrangements measured during confinement, we find that both C2 domains cooperate in membrane binding, with the C2B domain functioning as the main energetic driver, and the C2A domain acting as a facilitator.
Collapse
|
24
|
Ginger L, Malsam J, Sonnen AFP, Morado D, Scheutzow A, Söllner TH, Briggs JAG. Arrangements of proteins at reconstituted synaptic vesicle fusion sites depend on membrane separation. FEBS Lett 2020; 594:3450-3463. [PMID: 32860428 PMCID: PMC7711843 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.13916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Synaptic vesicle proteins, including N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs), Synaptotagmin‐1 and Complexin, are responsible for controlling the synchronised fusion of synaptic vesicles with the presynaptic plasma membrane in response to elevated cytosolic calcium levels. A range of structures of SNAREs and their regulatory proteins have been elucidated, but the exact organisation of these proteins at synaptic junction membranes remains elusive. Here, we have used cryoelectron tomography to investigate the arrangement of synaptic proteins in an in vitro reconstituted fusion system. We found that the separation between vesicle and target membranes strongly correlates with the organisation of protein complexes at junctions. At larger membrane separations, protein complexes assume a ‘clustered’ distribution at the docking site, inducing a protrusion in the target membrane. As the membrane separation decreases, protein complexes become displaced radially outwards and assume a ‘ring‐like’ arrangement. Our findings indicate that docked vesicles can possess a wide range of protein complex numbers and be heterogeneous in their protein arrangements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Ginger
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK
| | - Joerg Malsam
- Heidelberg University Biochemistry Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas F-P Sonnen
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | | | - John A G Briggs
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK.,Structural and Computational Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Huson V, Meijer M, Dekker R, Ter Veer M, Ruiter M, van Weering JR, Verhage M, Cornelisse LN. Post-tetanic potentiation lowers the energy barrier for synaptic vesicle fusion independently of Synaptotagmin-1. eLife 2020; 9:55713. [PMID: 32831174 PMCID: PMC7500951 DOI: 10.7554/elife.55713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Previously, we showed that modulation of the energy barrier for synaptic vesicle fusion boosts release rates supralinearly (Schotten, 2015). Here we show that mouse hippocampal synapses employ this principle to trigger Ca2+-dependent vesicle release and post-tetanic potentiation (PTP). We assess energy barrier changes by fitting release kinetics in response to hypertonic sucrose. Mimicking activation of the C2A domain of the Ca2+-sensor Synaptotagmin-1 (Syt1), by adding a positive charge (Syt1D232N) or increasing its hydrophobicity (Syt14W), lowers the energy barrier. Removing Syt1 or impairing its release inhibitory function (Syt19Pro) increases spontaneous release without affecting the fusion barrier. Both phorbol esters and tetanic stimulation potentiate synaptic strength, and lower the energy barrier equally well in the presence and absence of Syt1. We propose a model where tetanic stimulation activates Syt1-independent mechanisms that lower the energy barrier and act additively with Syt1-dependent mechanisms to produce PTP by exerting multiplicative effects on release rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Huson
- Department of Functional Genomics, Clinical Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam University Medical Center- Location VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marieke Meijer
- Department of Functional Genomics, Clinical Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam University Medical Center- Location VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Rien Dekker
- Department of Functional Genomics, Clinical Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam University Medical Center- Location VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Mirelle Ter Veer
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marvin Ruiter
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jan Rt van Weering
- Department of Functional Genomics, Clinical Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam University Medical Center- Location VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Matthijs Verhage
- Department of Functional Genomics, Clinical Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam University Medical Center- Location VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lennart Niels Cornelisse
- Department of Functional Genomics, Clinical Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam University Medical Center- Location VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Wolfes AC, Dean C. The diversity of synaptotagmin isoforms. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2020; 63:198-209. [PMID: 32663762 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2020.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The synaptotagmin family of molecules is known for regulating calcium-dependent membrane fusion events. Mice and humans express 17 synaptotagmin isoforms, where most studies have focused on isoforms 1, 2, and 7, which are involved in synaptic vesicle exocytosis. Recent work has highlighted how brain function relies on additional isoforms, with roles in postsynaptic receptor endocytosis, vesicle trafficking, membrane repair, synaptic plasticity, and protection against neurodegeneration, for example, in addition to the traditional concept of synaptotagmin-mediated neurotransmitter release - in neurons as well as glia, and at different timepoints. In fact, it is not uncommon for the same isoform to feature several splice isoforms, form homo- and heterodimers, and function in different subcellular locations and cell types. This review aims to highlight the diversity of synaptotagmins, offers a concise summary of key findings on all isoforms, and discusses different ways of grouping these.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne C Wolfes
- Department of Brain Sciences, Division of Neuroscience, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK; UK Dementia Research Institute at Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Camin Dean
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Charité University of Medicine - Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Fusion Pore Formation Observed during SNARE-Mediated Vesicle Fusion with Pore-Spanning Membranes. Biophys J 2020; 119:151-161. [PMID: 32533941 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2020.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Planar pore-spanning membranes (PSMs) have been shown to be a versatile tool to resolve elementary steps of the neuronal fusion process. However, in previous studies, we monitored only lipid mixing between fusing large unilamellar vesicles and PSMs and did not gather information about the formation of fusion pores. To address this important step of the fusion process, we entrapped sulforhodamine B at self-quenching concentrations into large unilamellar vesicles containing the v-SNARE synaptobrevin 2, which were docked and fused with lipid-labeled PSMs containing the t-SNARE acceptor complex ΔN49 prepared on gold-coated porous silicon substrates. By dual-color spinning disk fluorescence microscopy with a time resolution of ∼20 ms, we could unambiguously distinguish between bursting vesicles, which was only rarely observed (<0.01%), and fusion pore formation. From the time-resolved dual-color fluorescence time traces, we were able to identify different fusion pathways, including remaining three-dimensional postfusion structures with released content and transient openings and closings of the fusion pores. Our results on fusion pore formation and lipid diffusion from the PSM into the fusing vesicle let us conclude that the content release, i.e., fusion pore formation after the merger of the two lipid membranes occurs almost simultaneously.
Collapse
|
28
|
Ramakrishnan S, Bera M, Coleman J, Rothman JE, Krishnakumar SS. Synergistic roles of Synaptotagmin-1 and complexin in calcium-regulated neuronal exocytosis. eLife 2020; 9:54506. [PMID: 32401194 PMCID: PMC7220375 DOI: 10.7554/elife.54506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Calcium (Ca2+)-evoked release of neurotransmitters from synaptic vesicles requires mechanisms both to prevent un-initiated fusion of vesicles (clamping) and to trigger fusion following Ca2+-influx. The principal components involved in these processes are the vesicular fusion machinery (SNARE proteins) and the regulatory proteins, Synaptotagmin-1 and Complexin. Here, we use a reconstituted single-vesicle fusion assay under physiologically-relevant conditions to delineate a novel mechanism by which Synaptotagmin-1 and Complexin act synergistically to establish Ca2+-regulated fusion. We find that under each vesicle, Synaptotagmin-1 oligomers bind and clamp a limited number of 'central' SNARE complexes via the primary interface and introduce a kinetic delay in vesicle fusion mediated by the excess of free SNAREpins. This in turn enables Complexin to arrest the remaining free 'peripheral' SNAREpins to produce a stably clamped vesicle. Activation of the central SNAREpins associated with Synaptotagmin-1 by Ca2+ is sufficient to trigger rapid (<100 msec) and synchronous fusion of the docked vesicles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sathish Ramakrishnan
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, United States
| | - Manindra Bera
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, United States
| | - Jeff Coleman
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, United States
| | - James E Rothman
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, United States
| | - Shyam S Krishnakumar
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, United States.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Synaptotagmin 1 oligomers clamp and regulate different modes of neurotransmitter release. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:3819-3827. [PMID: 32015138 PMCID: PMC7035618 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1920403117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Release of neurotransmitters relies on submillisecond coupling of synaptic vesicle fusion to the triggering signal: AP-evoked presynaptic Ca2+ influx. The key player that controls exocytosis of the synaptic vesicle is the Ca2+ sensor synaptotagmin 1 (Syt1). While the Ca2+ activation of Syt1 has been extensively characterized, how Syt1 reversibly clamps vesicular fusion remains enigmatic. Here, using a targeted mutation combined with fluorescence imaging and electrophysiology, we show that the structural feature of Syt1 to self-oligomerize provides the molecular basis for clamping of spontaneous and asynchronous release but is not required for triggering of synchronous release. Our findings propose a mechanistic model that explains how Syt1 oligomers regulate different modes of transmitter release in neuronal synapses. Synaptotagmin 1 (Syt1) synchronizes neurotransmitter release to action potentials (APs) acting as the fast Ca2+ release sensor and as the inhibitor (clamp) of spontaneous and delayed asynchronous release. While the Syt1 Ca2+ activation mechanism has been well-characterized, how Syt1 clamps transmitter release remains enigmatic. Here we show that C2B domain-dependent oligomerization provides the molecular basis for the Syt1 clamping function. This follows from the investigation of a designed mutation (F349A), which selectively destabilizes Syt1 oligomerization. Using a combination of fluorescence imaging and electrophysiology in neocortical synapses, we show that Syt1F349A is more efficient than wild-type Syt1 (Syt1WT) in triggering synchronous transmitter release but fails to clamp spontaneous and synaptotagmin 7 (Syt7)-mediated asynchronous release components both in rescue (Syt1−/− knockout background) and dominant-interference (Syt1+/+ background) conditions. Thus, we conclude that Ca2+-sensitive Syt1 oligomers, acting as an exocytosis clamp, are critical for maintaining the balance among the different modes of neurotransmitter release.
Collapse
|
30
|
Nyenhuis SB, Thapa A, Cafiso DS. Phosphatidylinositol 4,5 Bisphosphate Controls the cis and trans Interactions of Synaptotagmin 1. Biophys J 2019; 117:247-257. [PMID: 31301806 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2019.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptotagmin 1 acts as the Ca2+ sensor for synchronous neurotransmitter release; however, the mechanism by which it functions is not understood and is presently a topic of considerable interest. Here, we describe measurements on full-length membrane-reconstituted synaptotagmin 1 using site-directed spin labeling in which we characterize the linker region as well as the cis (vesicle membrane) and trans (cytoplasmic membrane) binding of its two C2 domains. In the full-length protein, the C2A domain does not undergo membrane insertion in the absence of Ca2+; however, the C2B domain will bind to and penetrate in trans to a membrane containing phosphatidylinositol 4,5 bisphosphate, even if phosphatidylserine (PS) is present in the cis membrane. In the presence of Ca2+, the Ca2+ binding loops of C2A and C2B both insert into the membrane interface; moreover, C2A preferentially inserts into PS-containing bilayers and will bind in a cis configuration to membranes containing PS even if a phosphatidylinositol 4,5 bisphosphate membrane is presented in trans. The data are consistent with a bridging activity for synaptotagmin 1 in which the two domains bind to opposing vesicle and plasma membranes. The failure of C2A to bind membranes in the absence of Ca2+ and the long unstructured segment linking C2A to the vesicle membrane indicates that synaptotagmin 1 could act to significantly shorten the vesicle-plasma membrane distance with increasing levels of Ca2+.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah B Nyenhuis
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Membrane Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Anusa Thapa
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Membrane Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - David S Cafiso
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Membrane Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Grushin K, Wang J, Coleman J, Rothman JE, Sindelar CV, Krishnakumar SS. Structural basis for the clamping and Ca 2+ activation of SNARE-mediated fusion by synaptotagmin. Nat Commun 2019; 10:2413. [PMID: 31160571 PMCID: PMC6546687 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-10391-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Synapotagmin-1 (Syt1) interacts with both SNARE proteins and lipid membranes to synchronize neurotransmitter release to calcium (Ca2+) influx. Here we report the cryo-electron microscopy structure of the Syt1-SNARE complex on anionic-lipid containing membranes. Under resting conditions, the Syt1 C2 domains bind the membrane with a magnesium (Mg2+)-mediated partial insertion of the aliphatic loops, alongside weak interactions with the anionic lipid headgroups. The C2B domain concurrently interacts the SNARE bundle via the 'primary' interface and is positioned between the SNAREpins and the membrane. In this configuration, Syt1 is projected to sterically delay the complete assembly of the associated SNAREpins and thus, contribute to clamping fusion. This Syt1-SNARE organization is disrupted upon Ca2+-influx as Syt1 reorients into the membrane, likely displacing the attached SNAREpins and reversing the fusion clamp. We thus conclude that the cation (Mg2+/Ca2+) dependent membrane interaction is a key determinant of the dual clamp/activator function of Synaptotagmin-1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirill Grushin
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Jeff Coleman
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - James E Rothman
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Charles V Sindelar
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
| | - Shyam S Krishnakumar
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, Institute of Neurology, University College London, Queens Square House, London, WC1 3BG, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Manca F, Pincet F, Truskinovsky L, Rothman JE, Foret L, Caruel M. SNARE machinery is optimized for ultrafast fusion. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:2435-2442. [PMID: 30700546 PMCID: PMC6377469 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1820394116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
SNARE proteins zipper to form complexes (SNAREpins) that power vesicle fusion with target membranes in a variety of biological processes. A single SNAREpin takes about 1 s to fuse two bilayers, yet a handful can ensure release of neurotransmitters from synaptic vesicles much faster: in a 10th of a millisecond. We propose that, similar to the case of muscle myosins, the ultrafast fusion results from cooperative action of many SNAREpins. The coupling originates from mechanical interactions induced by confining scaffolds. Each SNAREpin is known to have enough energy to overcome the fusion barrier of 25-[Formula: see text]; however, the fusion barrier only becomes relevant when the SNAREpins are nearly completely zippered, and from this state, each SNAREpin can deliver only a small fraction of this energy as mechanical work. Therefore, they have to act cooperatively, and we show that at least three of them are needed to ensure fusion in less than a millisecond. However, to reach the prefusion state collectively, starting from the experimentally observed half-zippered metastable state, the SNAREpins have to mechanically synchronize, which takes more time as the number of SNAREpins increases. Incorporating this somewhat counterintuitive idea in a simple coarse-grained model results in the prediction that there should be an optimum number of SNAREpins for submillisecond fusion: three to six over a wide range of parameters. Interestingly, in situ cryoelectron microscope tomography has very recently shown that exactly six SNAREpins participate in the fusion of each synaptic vesicle. This number is in the range predicted by our theory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Manca
- Laboratoire de Physique de l'Ecole Normale Supérieure (LPENS), CNRS, Ecole Normale Supérieure, 75005 Paris, France
- LPENS, Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
- LPENS, Université Paris-Diderot, 75005 Paris, France
- LPENS, Université PSL, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Frederic Pincet
- Laboratoire de Physique de l'Ecole Normale Supérieure (LPENS), CNRS, Ecole Normale Supérieure, 75005 Paris, France
- LPENS, Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
- LPENS, Université Paris-Diderot, 75005 Paris, France
- LPENS, Université PSL, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Lev Truskinovsky
- Physique et Mécanique des Milieux Hétérogènes, CNRS, Ecole Supérieure de Physique et de Chimie Industrielles, Université PSL, 75231 Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - James E Rothman
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520;
- Department of Experimental Epilepsy, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Lionel Foret
- Laboratoire de Physique de l'Ecole Normale Supérieure (LPENS), CNRS, Ecole Normale Supérieure, 75005 Paris, France
- LPENS, Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
- LPENS, Université Paris-Diderot, 75005 Paris, France
- LPENS, Université PSL, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Matthieu Caruel
- Modélisation et Simulation Multi-Echelle, CNRS, Université Paris-Est Créteil, 94010 Créteil Cedex, France
| |
Collapse
|