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Toulme E, Murach J, Bärfuss S, Kroll J, Malsam J, Trimbuch T, Herman MA, Söllner TH, Rosenmund C. Mutations of Single Residues in the Complexin N-terminus Exhibit Distinct Phenotypes in Synaptic Vesicle Fusion. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e0076242024. [PMID: 38951039 PMCID: PMC11293444 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0076-24.2024] [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: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The release of neurotransmitters (NTs) at central synapses is dependent on a cascade of protein interactions, specific to the presynaptic compartment. Among those dedicated molecules, the cytosolic complexins play an incompletely defined role as synaptic transmission regulators. Complexins are multidomain proteins that bind soluble N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor attachment protein receptor complexes, conferring both inhibitory and stimulatory functions. Using systematic mutagenesis and comparing reconstituted in vitro membrane fusion assays with electrophysiology in cultured neurons from mice of either sex, we deciphered the function of the N-terminus of complexin (Cpx) II. The N-terminus (amino acid 1-27) starts with a region enriched in hydrophobic amino acids (1-12), which binds lipids. Mutants maintaining this hydrophobic character retained the stimulatory function of Cpx, whereas exchanges introducing charged residues perturbed both spontaneous and evoked exocytosis. Mutants in the more distal region of the N-terminal domain (amino acid 11-18) showed a spectrum of effects. On the one hand, mutation of residue A12 increased spontaneous release without affecting evoked release. On the other hand, replacing D15 with amino acids of different shapes or hydrophobic properties (but not charge) not only increased spontaneous release but also impaired evoked release. Most surprising, this substitution reduced the size of the readily releasable pool, a novel function for Cpx at mammalian synapses. Thus, the exact amino acid composition of the Cpx N-terminus fine-tunes the degree of spontaneous and evoked NT release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estelle Toulme
- Charite - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Neurophysiology, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jacqueline Murach
- Heidelberg University Biochemistry Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Simon Bärfuss
- Heidelberg University Biochemistry Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jana Kroll
- Charite - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Neurophysiology, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jörg Malsam
- Heidelberg University Biochemistry Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thorsten Trimbuch
- Charite - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Neurophysiology, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Melissa A Herman
- Charite - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Neurophysiology, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas H Söllner
- Heidelberg University Biochemistry Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christian Rosenmund
- Charite - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Neurophysiology, 10117 Berlin, Germany
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2
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Crane AB, Jetti SK, Littleton JT. A stochastic RNA editing process targets a limited number of sites in individual Drosophila glutamatergic motoneurons. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.17.594696. [PMID: 38798345 PMCID: PMC11118563 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.17.594696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
RNA editing is a post-transcriptional source of protein diversity and occurs across the animal kingdom. Given the complete profile of mRNA targets and their editing rate in individual cells is unclear, we analyzed single cell RNA transcriptomes from Drosophila larval tonic and phasic glutamatergic motoneuron subtypes to determine the most highly edited targets and identify cell-type specific editing. From ∼15,000 genes encoded in the genome, 316 high confidence A-to-I canonical RNA edit sites were identified, with 102 causing missense amino acid changes in proteins regulating membrane excitability, synaptic transmission, and cellular function. Some sites showed 100% editing in single neurons as observed with mRNAs encoding mammalian AMPA receptors. However, most sites were edited at lower levels and generated variable expression of edited and unedited mRNAs within individual neurons. Together, these data provide insights into how the RNA editing landscape alters protein function to modulate the properties of two well-characterized neuronal populations in Drosophila .
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3
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Toulme E, Murach J, Bärfuss S, Kroll J, Malsam J, Trimbuch T, Herman MA, Söllner TH, Rosenmund C. Single residues in the complexin N-terminus exhibit distinct phenotypes in synaptic vesicle fusion. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.12.575336. [PMID: 38260673 PMCID: PMC10802614 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.12.575336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
The release of neurotransmitters at central synapses is dependent on a cascade of protein interactions, specific to the presynaptic compartment. Amongst those dedicated molecules the cytosolic complexins play an incompletely defined role as synaptic transmission regulators. Complexins are multidomain SNARE complex binding proteins which confer both inhibitory and stimulatory functions. Using systematic mutagenesis and combining reconstituted in vitro membrane fusion assays with electrophysiology in neurons, we deciphered the function of the N-terminus of complexin II (Cpx). The N-terminus (amino acid 1 - 27) starts with a region enriched in hydrophobic amino acids (1-12), which can lead to lipid binding. In contrast to mutants which maintain the hydrophobic character and the stimulatory function of Cpx, non-conservative exchanges largely perturbed spontaneous and evoked exocytosis. Mutants in the downstream region (amino acid 11-18) show differential effects. Cpx-A12W increased spontaneous release without affecting evoked release whereas replacing D15 with amino acids of different shapes or hydrophobic properties (but not charge) not only increased spontaneous release, but also impaired evoked release and surprisingly reduced the size of the readily releasable pool, a novel Cpx function, unanticipated from previous studies. Thus, the exact amino acid composition of the Cpx N-terminus fine tunes the degree of spontaneous and evoked neurotransmitter release. Significance Statement We describe in this work the importance of the N-terminal domain of the small regulatory cytosolic protein complexin in spontaneous and evoked glutamatergic neurotransmitter release at hippocampal mouse neurons. We show using a combination of biochemical, imaging and electrophysiological techniques that the binding of the proximal region of complexin (amino acids 1-10) to lipids is crucial for spontaneous synaptic vesicular release. Furthermore, we identify a single amino acid at position D15 which is structurally important since it not only is involved in spontaneous release but, when mutated, also decreases drastically the readily releasable pool, a function that was never attributed to complexin.
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4
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Brija EA, Guan Z, Jetti SK, Littleton JT. Stochastic RNA editing of the Complexin C-terminus within single neurons regulates neurotransmitter release. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113152. [PMID: 37717212 PMCID: PMC10591831 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113152] [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: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurotransmitter release requires assembly of the SNARE complex fusion machinery, with multiple SNARE-binding proteins regulating when and where synaptic vesicle fusion occurs. The presynaptic protein Complexin (Cpx) controls spontaneous and evoked neurotransmitter release by modulating SNARE complex zippering. Although the central SNARE-binding helix is essential, post-translational modifications to Cpx's C-terminal membrane-binding amphipathic helix regulate its ability to control synaptic vesicle fusion. Here, we demonstrate that RNA editing of the Cpx C-terminus modifies its ability to clamp SNARE-mediated fusion and alters presynaptic output. RNA editing of Cpx across single neurons is stochastic, generating up to eight edit variants that fine tune neurotransmitter release by altering the subcellular localization and clamping properties of the protein. Similar stochastic editing rules for other synaptic genes were observed, indicating editing variability at single adenosines and across multiple mRNAs generates unique synaptic proteomes within the same population of neurons to fine tune presynaptic output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Brija
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Zhuo Guan
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Suresh K Jetti
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - J Troy Littleton
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
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5
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Brija EA, Guan Z, Jetti SK, Littleton JT. Stochastic RNA editing of the Complexin C-terminus within single neurons regulates neurotransmitter release. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.30.542887. [PMID: 37398117 PMCID: PMC10312600 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.30.542887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Neurotransmitter release requires assembly of the SNARE complex fusion machinery, with multiple SNARE-binding proteins regulating this process to control when and where synaptic vesicle fusion occurs. Complexin (Cpx) controls spontaneous and evoked neurotransmitter release by modulating SNARE complex zippering. Although the central SNARE-binding helix is essential, post-translational modifications to Cpx's C-terminal membrane-binding amphipathic helix modulate its activity. Here we demonstrate that RNA editing of the Cpx C-terminus regulates its ability to clamp SNARE-mediated fusion and alters presynaptic output. RNA editing of Cpx within single neurons is stochastic, generating up to eight edit variants that fine-tune neurotransmitter release by changing the subcellular localization and clamping properties of the protein. Similar editing rules for other synaptic genes were observed, indicating stochastic editing at single adenosines and across multiple mRNAs can generate unique synaptic proteomes within the same population of neurons to fine-tune presynaptic output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Brija
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Zhuo Guan
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Suresh K Jetti
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - J Troy Littleton
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139
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6
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Grasso EM, Terakawa MS, Lai AL, Xue Xie Y, Ramlall TF, Freed JH, Eliezer D. Membrane Binding Induces Distinct Structural Signatures in the Mouse Complexin-1C-Terminal Domain. J Mol Biol 2023; 435:167710. [PMID: 35777466 PMCID: PMC9794636 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2022.167710] [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: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Complexins play a critical role in regulating SNARE-mediated exocytosis of synaptic vesicles. Evolutionary divergences in complexin function have complicated our understanding of the role these proteins play in inhibiting the spontaneous fusion of vesicles. Previous structural and functional characterizations of worm and mouse complexins have indicated the membrane curvature-sensing C-terminal domain of these proteins is responsible for differences in inhibitory function. We have characterized the structure and dynamics of the mCpx1 CTD in the absence and presence of membranes and membrane mimetics using NMR, ESR, and optical spectroscopies. In the absence of lipids, the mCpx1 CTD features a short helix near its N-terminus and is otherwise disordered. In the presence of micelles and small unilamellar vesicles, the mCpx1 CTD forms a discontinuous helical structure in its C-terminal 20 amino acids, with no preference for specific lipid compositions. In contrast, the mCpx1 CTD shows distinct compositional preferences in its interactions with large unilamellar vesicles. These studies identify structural divergences in the mCpx1 CTD relative to the wCpx1 CTD in regions that are known to be critical to the wCpx1 CTD's role in inhibiting spontaneous fusion of synaptic vesicles, suggesting a potential structural basis for evolutionary divergences in complexin function.1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily M Grasso
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mayu S Terakawa
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Alex L Lai
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Ying Xue Xie
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Trudy F Ramlall
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jack H Freed
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - David Eliezer
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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7
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Lottermoser JA, Dittman JS. Complexin Membrane Interactions: Implications for Synapse Evolution and Function. J Mol Biol 2023; 435:167774. [PMID: 35931110 PMCID: PMC9807284 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2022.167774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The molecules and mechanisms behind chemical synaptic transmission have been explored for decades. For several of the core proteins involved in synaptic vesicle fusion, we now have a reasonably detailed grasp of their biochemical, structural, and functional properties. Complexin is one of the key synaptic proteins for which a simple mechanistic understanding is still lacking. Living up to its name, this small protein has been associated with a variety of roles differing between synapses and between species, but little consensus has been reached on its fundamental modes of action. Much attention has been paid to its deeply conserved SNARE-binding properties, while membrane-binding features of complexin and their functional significance have yet to be explored to the same degree. In this review, we summarize the known membrane interactions of the complexin C-terminal domain and their potential relevance to its function, synaptic localization, and evolutionary history.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeremy S Dittman
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States.
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8
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López-Murcia FJ, Reim K, Taschenberger H. Complexins: Ubiquitously Expressed Presynaptic Regulators of SNARE-Mediated Synaptic Vesicle Fusion. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 33:255-285. [PMID: 37615870 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-34229-5_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Neurotransmitter release is a spatially and temporally tightly regulated process, which requires assembly and disassembly of SNARE complexes to enable the exocytosis of transmitter-loaded synaptic vesicles (SVs) at presynaptic active zones (AZs). While the requirement for the core SNARE machinery is shared by most membrane fusion processes, SNARE-mediated fusion at AZs is uniquely regulated to allow very rapid Ca2+-triggered SV exocytosis following action potential (AP) arrival. To enable a sub-millisecond time course of AP-triggered SV fusion, synapse-specific accessory SNARE-binding proteins are required in addition to the core fusion machinery. Among the known SNARE regulators specific for Ca2+-triggered SV fusion are complexins, which are almost ubiquitously expressed in neurons. This chapter summarizes the structural features of complexins, models for their molecular interactions with SNAREs, and their roles in SV fusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco José López-Murcia
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapy, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Kerstin Reim
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Holger Taschenberger
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany.
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9
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The complexin C-terminal amphipathic helix stabilizes the fusion pore open state by sculpting membranes. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2022; 29:97-107. [DOI: 10.1038/s41594-021-00716-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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10
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Newman ZL, Bakshinskaya D, Schultz R, Kenny SJ, Moon S, Aghi K, Stanley C, Marnani N, Li R, Bleier J, Xu K, Isacoff EY. Determinants of synapse diversity revealed by super-resolution quantal transmission and active zone imaging. Nat Commun 2022; 13:229. [PMID: 35017509 PMCID: PMC8752601 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27815-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural circuit function depends on the pattern of synaptic connections between neurons and the strength of those connections. Synaptic strength is determined by both postsynaptic sensitivity to neurotransmitter and the presynaptic probability of action potential evoked transmitter release (Pr). Whereas morphology and neurotransmitter receptor number indicate postsynaptic sensitivity, presynaptic indicators and the mechanism that sets Pr remain to be defined. To address this, we developed QuaSOR, a super-resolution method for determining Pr from quantal synaptic transmission imaging at hundreds of glutamatergic synapses at a time. We mapped the Pr onto super-resolution 3D molecular reconstructions of the presynaptic active zones (AZs) of the same synapses at the Drosophila larval neuromuscular junction (NMJ). We find that Pr varies greatly between synapses made by a single axon, quantify the contribution of key AZ proteins to Pr diversity and find that one of these, Complexin, suppresses spontaneous and evoked transmission differentially, thereby generating a spatial and quantitative mismatch between release modes. Transmission is thus regulated by the balance and nanoscale distribution of release-enhancing and suppressing presynaptic proteins to generate high signal-to-noise evoked transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary L Newman
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Dariya Bakshinskaya
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Ryan Schultz
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Samuel J Kenny
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Seonah Moon
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Krisha Aghi
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Cherise Stanley
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Nadia Marnani
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Rachel Li
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Julia Bleier
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Ke Xu
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrated BioImaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Ehud Y Isacoff
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrated BioImaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
- Weill Neurohub, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
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11
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Sauvola CW, Littleton JT. SNARE Regulatory Proteins in Synaptic Vesicle Fusion and Recycling. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:733138. [PMID: 34421538 PMCID: PMC8377282 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.733138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Membrane fusion is a universal feature of eukaryotic protein trafficking and is mediated by the soluble N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) family. SNARE proteins embedded in opposing membranes spontaneously assemble to drive membrane fusion and cargo exchange in vitro. Evolution has generated a diverse complement of SNARE regulatory proteins (SRPs) that ensure membrane fusion occurs at the right time and place in vivo. While a core set of SNAREs and SRPs are common to all eukaryotic cells, a specialized set of SRPs within neurons confer additional regulation to synaptic vesicle (SV) fusion. Neuronal communication is characterized by precise spatial and temporal control of SNARE dynamics within presynaptic subdomains specialized for neurotransmitter release. Action potential-elicited Ca2+ influx at these release sites triggers zippering of SNAREs embedded in the SV and plasma membrane to drive bilayer fusion and release of neurotransmitters that activate downstream targets. Here we discuss current models for how SRPs regulate SNARE dynamics and presynaptic output, emphasizing invertebrate genetic findings that advanced our understanding of SRP regulation of SV cycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad W Sauvola
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - J Troy Littleton
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States.,Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
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12
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Complexin Suppresses Spontaneous Exocytosis by Capturing the Membrane-Proximal Regions of VAMP2 and SNAP25. Cell Rep 2021; 32:107926. [PMID: 32698012 PMCID: PMC7116205 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.107926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The neuronal protein complexin contains multiple domains that exert clamping and facilitatory functions to tune spontaneous and action potential-triggered synaptic release. We address the clamping mechanism and show that the accessory helix of complexin arrests assembly of the soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) complex that forms the core machinery of intracellular membrane fusion. In a reconstituted fusion assay, site-and stage-specific photo-cross-linking reveals that, prior to fusion, the complexin accessory helix laterally binds the membrane-proximal C-terminal ends of SNAP25 and VAMP2. Corresponding complexin interface mutants selectively increase spontaneous release of neuro-transmitters in living neurons, implying that the accessory helix suppresses final zippering/assembly of the SNARE four-helix bundle by restraining VAMP2 and SNAP25.
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13
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The Accessory Helix of Complexin Stabilizes a Partially Unzippered State of the SNARE Complex and Mediates the Complexin Clamping Function In Vivo. eNeuro 2021; 8:ENEURO.0526-20.2021. [PMID: 33692090 PMCID: PMC8026252 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0526-20.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Spontaneous synaptic transmission is regulated by the protein complexin (Cpx). Cpx binds the SNARE complex, a coil-coiled four-helical bundle that mediates the attachment of a synaptic vesicle (SV) to the presynaptic membrane (PM). Cpx is thought to clamp spontaneous fusion events by stabilizing a partially unraveled state of the SNARE bundle; however, the molecular detail of this mechanism is still debated. We combined electrophysiology, molecular modeling, and site-directed mutagenesis in Drosophila to develop and validate the atomic model of the Cpx-mediated clamped state of the SNARE complex. We took advantage of botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) B and G, which cleave the SNARE protein synaptobrevin (Syb) at different sites. Monitoring synaptic depression on BoNT loading revealed that the clamped state of the SNARE complex has two or three unraveled helical turns of Syb. Site-directed mutagenesis showed that the Cpx clamping function is predominantly maintained by its accessory helix (AH), while molecular modeling suggested that the Cpx AH interacts with the unraveled C terminus of Syb and the SV lipid bilayer. The developed molecular model was employed to design new Cpx poor-clamp and super-clamp mutations and to tested the predictions in silico employing molecular dynamics simulations. Subsequently, we generated Drosophila lines harboring these mutations and confirmed the poor-clamp and super-clamp phenotypes in vivo. Altogether, these results validate the atomic model of the Cpx-mediated fusion clamp, wherein the Cpx AH inserts between the SNARE bundle and the SV lipid bilayer, simultaneously binding the unraveled C terminus of Syb and preventing full SNARE assembly.
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14
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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.
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15
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Takai A, Yamaguchi M, Yoshida H, Chiyonobu T. Investigating Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathy Using Drosophila melanogaster. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176442. [PMID: 32899411 PMCID: PMC7503973 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs) are the spectrum of severe epilepsies characterized by early-onset, refractory seizures occurring in the context of developmental regression or plateauing. Early infantile epileptic encephalopathy (EIEE) is one of the earliest forms of DEE, manifesting as frequent epileptic spasms and characteristic electroencephalogram findings in early infancy. In recent years, next-generation sequencing approaches have identified a number of monogenic determinants underlying DEE. In the case of EIEE, 85 genes have been registered in Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man as causative genes. Model organisms are indispensable tools for understanding the in vivo roles of the newly identified causative genes. In this review, we first present an overview of epilepsy and its genetic etiology, especially focusing on EIEE and then briefly summarize epilepsy research using animal and patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models. The Drosophila model, which is characterized by easy gene manipulation, a short generation time, low cost and fewer ethical restrictions when designing experiments, is optimal for understanding the genetics of DEE. We therefore highlight studies with Drosophila models for EIEE and discuss the future development of their practical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akari Takai
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan;
| | - Masamitsu Yamaguchi
- Department of Applied Biology, Kyoto Institute of Technology, Matsugasaki, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 603-8585, Japan; (M.Y.); (H.Y.)
- Kansai Gakken Laboratory, Kankyo Eisei Yakuhin Co. Ltd., Kyoto 619-0237, Japan
| | - Hideki Yoshida
- Department of Applied Biology, Kyoto Institute of Technology, Matsugasaki, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 603-8585, Japan; (M.Y.); (H.Y.)
| | - Tomohiro Chiyonobu
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan;
- Correspondence:
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16
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Guan Z, Quiñones-Frías MC, Akbergenova Y, Littleton JT. Drosophila Synaptotagmin 7 negatively regulates synaptic vesicle release and replenishment in a dosage-dependent manner. eLife 2020; 9:e55443. [PMID: 32343229 PMCID: PMC7224696 DOI: 10.7554/elife.55443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Synchronous neurotransmitter release is triggered by Ca2+ binding to the synaptic vesicle protein Synaptotagmin 1, while asynchronous fusion and short-term facilitation is hypothesized to be mediated by plasma membrane-localized Synaptotagmin 7 (SYT7). We generated mutations in Drosophila Syt7 to determine if it plays a conserved role as the Ca2+ sensor for these processes. Electrophysiology and quantal imaging revealed evoked release was elevated 2-fold. Syt7 mutants also had a larger pool of readily-releasable vesicles, faster recovery following stimulation, and intact facilitation. Syt1/Syt7 double mutants displayed more release than Syt1 mutants alone, indicating SYT7 does not mediate the residual asynchronous release remaining in the absence of SYT1. SYT7 localizes to an internal membrane tubular network within the peri-active zone, but does not enrich at active zones. These findings indicate the two Ca2+ sensor model of SYT1 and SYT7 mediating all phases of neurotransmitter release and facilitation is not applicable at Drosophila synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Guan
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Biology and Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
| | - Monica C Quiñones-Frías
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Biology and Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
| | - Yulia Akbergenova
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Biology and Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
| | - J Troy Littleton
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Biology and Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
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17
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Abstract
The past few years have resulted in an increased awareness and recognition of the prevalence and roles of intrinsically disordered proteins and protein regions (IDPs and IDRs, respectively) in synaptic vesicle trafficking and exocytosis and in overall synaptic organization. IDPs and IDRs constitute a class of proteins and protein regions that lack stable tertiary structure, but nevertheless retain biological function. Their significance in processes such as cell signaling is now well accepted, but their pervasiveness and importance in other areas of biology are not as widely appreciated. Here, we review the prevalence and functional roles of IDPs and IDRs associated with the release and recycling of synaptic vesicles at nerve terminals, as well as with the architecture of these terminals. We hope to promote awareness, especially among neuroscientists, of the importance of this class of proteins in these critical pathways and structures. The examples discussed illustrate some of the ways in which the structural flexibility conferred by intrinsic protein disorder can be functionally advantageous in the context of cellular trafficking and synaptic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Snead
- From the Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10021
| | - David Eliezer
- From the Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10021
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18
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Scholz N, Ehmann N, Sachidanandan D, Imig C, Cooper BH, Jahn O, Reim K, Brose N, Meyer J, Lamberty M, Altrichter S, Bormann A, Hallermann S, Pauli M, Heckmann M, Stigloher C, Langenhan T, Kittel RJ. Complexin cooperates with Bruchpilot to tether synaptic vesicles to the active zone cytomatrix. J Cell Biol 2019; 218:1011-1026. [PMID: 30782781 PMCID: PMC6400551 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201806155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
By performing an in vivo screen in Drosophila melanogaster, Scholz, Ehmann, et al. identify Complexin as a functional interaction partner of Bruchpilot. The two proteins mediate a physical attachment of synaptic vesicles to the active zone cytomatrix and promote rapid, sustained synaptic transmission. Information processing by the nervous system depends on neurotransmitter release from synaptic vesicles (SVs) at the presynaptic active zone. Molecular components of the cytomatrix at the active zone (CAZ) regulate the final stages of the SV cycle preceding exocytosis and thereby shape the efficacy and plasticity of synaptic transmission. Part of this regulation is reflected by a physical association of SVs with filamentous CAZ structures via largely unknown protein interactions. The very C-terminal region of Bruchpilot (Brp), a key component of the Drosophila melanogaster CAZ, participates in SV tethering. Here, we identify the conserved SNARE regulator Complexin (Cpx) in an in vivo screen for molecules that link the Brp C terminus to SVs. Brp and Cpx interact genetically and functionally. Both proteins promote SV recruitment to the Drosophila CAZ and counteract short-term synaptic depression. Analyzing SV tethering to active zone ribbons of cpx3 knockout mice supports an evolutionarily conserved role of Cpx upstream of SNARE complex assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Scholz
- Institute of Physiology, Department of Neurophysiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,Rudolf Schönheimer Institute of Biochemistry, Division of General Biochemistry, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Nadine Ehmann
- Institute of Physiology, Department of Neurophysiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,Department of Animal Physiology, Institute of Biology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany.,Carl Ludwig Institute for Physiology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Divya Sachidanandan
- Institute of Physiology, Department of Neurophysiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Cordelia Imig
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Benjamin H Cooper
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Olaf Jahn
- Proteomics Group, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Kerstin Reim
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Nils Brose
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jutta Meyer
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany.,Proteomics Group, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany.,Göttingen Graduate School for Neurosciences, Biophysics and Molecular Biosciences, University of Göttingen, Germany
| | - Marius Lamberty
- Institute of Physiology, Department of Neurophysiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,Department of Animal Physiology, Institute of Biology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany.,Carl Ludwig Institute for Physiology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Steffen Altrichter
- Institute of Physiology, Department of Neurophysiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,Rudolf Schönheimer Institute of Biochemistry, Division of General Biochemistry, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anne Bormann
- Rudolf Schönheimer Institute of Biochemistry, Division of General Biochemistry, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Stefan Hallermann
- Carl Ludwig Institute for Physiology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Martin Pauli
- Institute of Physiology, Department of Neurophysiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Manfred Heckmann
- Institute of Physiology, Department of Neurophysiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Tobias Langenhan
- Institute of Physiology, Department of Neurophysiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany .,Rudolf Schönheimer Institute of Biochemistry, Division of General Biochemistry, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Robert J Kittel
- Institute of Physiology, Department of Neurophysiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany .,Department of Animal Physiology, Institute of Biology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany.,Carl Ludwig Institute for Physiology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
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19
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Snead D, Eliezer D. Spectroscopic Characterization of Structure-Function Relationships in the Intrinsically Disordered Protein Complexin. Methods Enzymol 2018; 611:227-286. [PMID: 30471689 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2018.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Complexins play a critical role in the regulation of neurotransmission by regulating SNARE-mediated exocytosis of synaptic vesicles. Complexins can exert either a facilitatory or an inhibitory effect on neurotransmitter release, depending on the context, and different complexin domains contribute differently to these opposing roles. Structural characterization of the central helix domain of complexin bound to the assembled SNARE bundle provided key insights into the functional mechanism of this domain of complexin, which is critical for both complexin activities, but many questions remain, particularly regarding the roles and mechanisms of other complexin domains. Recent progress has clarified the structural properties of these additional domains, and has led to various proposals regarding how they contribute to complexin function. This chapter describes spectroscopic approaches used in our laboratory and others, primarily involving circular dichroism and solution-state NMR spectroscopy, to characterize structure within complexins when isolated or when bound to interaction partners. The ability to characterize complexin structure enables structure/function studies employing in vitro or in vivo assays of complexin function. More generally, these types of approaches can be used to study the binding of other intrinsically disordered proteins or protein regions to membrane surfaces or for that matter to other large physiological binding partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Snead
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - David Eliezer
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States.
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20
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NonA and CPX Link the Circadian Clockwork to Locomotor Activity in Drosophila. Neuron 2018; 99:768-780.e3. [PMID: 30057203 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Drosophila NonA and its mammalian ortholog NONO are members of the Drosophila behavior and human splicing (DBHS) family. NONO also has a strong circadian connection: it associates with the circadian repressor protein PERIOD (PER) and contributes to circadian timekeeping. Here, we investigate NonA, which is required for proper levels of evening locomotor activity as well as a normal free-running period in Drosophila. NonA is associated with the positive transcription factor CLOCK/CYCLE (CLK/CYC), interacts directly with complexin (cpx) pre-mRNA, and upregulates gene expression, including the gene cpx. Downregulation of cpx expression in circadian neurons phenocopies NonA downregulation, whereas cpx overexpression rescues the nonA RNAi phenotypes, indicating that cpx is an important NonA target gene. As the cpx protein contributes to proper neurotransmitter and neuropeptide release in response to calcium, these results and others indicate that this control is important for the normal circadian regulation of locomotor activity.
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21
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Makke M, Mantero Martinez M, Gaya S, Schwarz Y, Frisch W, Silva-Bermudez L, Jung M, Mohrmann R, Dhara M, Bruns D. A mechanism for exocytotic arrest by the Complexin C-terminus. eLife 2018; 7:38981. [PMID: 30044227 PMCID: PMC6075865 DOI: 10.7554/elife.38981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
ComplexinII (CpxII) inhibits non-synchronized vesicle fusion, but the underlying mechanisms have remained unclear. Here, we provide evidence that the far C-terminal domain (CTD) of CpxII interferes with SNARE assembly, thereby arresting tonic exocytosis. Acute infusion of a CTD-derived peptide into mouse chromaffin cells enhances synchronous release by diminishing premature vesicle fusion like full-length CpxII, indicating a direct, inhibitory function of the CTD that sets the magnitude of the primed vesicle pool. We describe a high degree of structural similarity between the CpxII CTD and the SNAP25-SN1 domain (C-terminal half) and show that the CTD peptide lowers the rate of SDS-resistant SNARE complex formation in vitro. Moreover, corresponding CpxII:SNAP25 chimeras do restore complexin's function and even 'superclamp' tonic secretion. Collectively, these results support a so far unrecognized clamping mechanism wherein the CpxII C-terminus hinders spontaneous SNARE complex assembly, enabling the build-up of a release-ready pool of vesicles for synchronized Ca2+-triggered exocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mazen Makke
- Institute for Physiology, Center of Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Saarland, Homburg, Germany
| | - Maria Mantero Martinez
- Institute for Physiology, Center of Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Saarland, Homburg, Germany
| | - Surya Gaya
- Institute for Physiology, Center of Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Saarland, Homburg, Germany
| | - Yvonne Schwarz
- Institute for Physiology, Center of Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Saarland, Homburg, Germany
| | - Walentina Frisch
- Institute for Physiology, Center of Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Saarland, Homburg, Germany
| | - Lina Silva-Bermudez
- Institute for Physiology, Center of Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Saarland, Homburg, Germany
| | - Martin Jung
- Institute for Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Saarland, Homburg, Germany
| | - Ralf Mohrmann
- Institute for Physiology, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Madhurima Dhara
- Institute for Physiology, Center of Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Saarland, Homburg, Germany
| | - Dieter Bruns
- Institute for Physiology, Center of Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Saarland, Homburg, Germany
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22
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Robinson SW, Bourgognon JM, Spiers JG, Breda C, Campesan S, Butcher A, Mallucci GR, Dinsdale D, Morone N, Mistry R, Smith TM, Guerra-Martin M, Challiss RAJ, Giorgini F, Steinert JR. Nitric oxide-mediated posttranslational modifications control neurotransmitter release by modulating complexin farnesylation and enhancing its clamping ability. PLoS Biol 2018; 16:e2003611. [PMID: 29630591 PMCID: PMC5890968 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.2003611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) regulates neuronal function and thus is critical for tuning neuronal communication. Mechanisms by which NO modulates protein function and interaction include posttranslational modifications (PTMs) such as S-nitrosylation. Importantly, cross signaling between S-nitrosylation and prenylation can have major regulatory potential. However, the exact protein targets and resulting changes in function remain elusive. Here, we interrogated the role of NO-dependent PTMs and farnesylation in synaptic transmission. We found that NO compromises synaptic function at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction (NMJ) in a cGMP-independent manner. NO suppressed release and reduced the size of available vesicle pools, which was reversed by glutathione (GSH) and occluded by genetic up-regulation of GSH-generating and de-nitrosylating glutamate-cysteine-ligase and S-nitroso-glutathione reductase activities. Enhanced nitrergic activity led to S-nitrosylation of the fusion-clamp protein complexin (cpx) and altered its membrane association and interactions with active zone (AZ) and soluble N-ethyl-maleimide-sensitive fusion protein Attachment Protein Receptor (SNARE) proteins. Furthermore, genetic and pharmacological suppression of farnesylation and a nitrosylation mimetic mutant of cpx induced identical physiological and localization phenotypes as caused by NO. Together, our data provide evidence for a novel physiological nitrergic molecular switch involving S-nitrosylation, which reversibly suppresses farnesylation and thereby enhances the net-clamping function of cpx. These data illustrate a new mechanistic signaling pathway by which regulation of farnesylation can fine-tune synaptic release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan W. Robinson
- MRC Toxicology Unit, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | | | - Jereme G. Spiers
- MRC Toxicology Unit, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Carlo Breda
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Susanna Campesan
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian Butcher
- MRC Toxicology Unit, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Giovanna R. Mallucci
- MRC Toxicology Unit, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - David Dinsdale
- MRC Toxicology Unit, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Nobuhiro Morone
- MRC Toxicology Unit, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Raj Mistry
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Tim M. Smith
- MRC Toxicology Unit, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | | | - R. A. John Challiss
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Flaviano Giorgini
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Joern R. Steinert
- MRC Toxicology Unit, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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23
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Yu Y, Chen S, Mo X, Gong J, Li C, Yang X. Accessory and Central α-helices of Complexin Selectively Activate Ca 2+ Triggering of Synaptic Exocytosis. Front Mol Neurosci 2018. [PMID: 29535609 PMCID: PMC5834437 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2018.00061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Complexins, binding to assembling soluble NSF-attachment protein receptor (SNARE) complexes, activate Ca2+ triggered exocytosis and clamp spontaneous release in the presynaptic terminal. Functions of complexin are structural dependent and mechanistically distinct. To further understand the functional/structural dependence of complexin, here we show that the accessory and central α-helices of complexin are sufficient in activation of Ca2+ triggered vesicle fusion but not in clamping spontaneous release. Targeting the two α-helices to synaptic vesicle suppresses spontaneous release, thus further emphasizing the importance of curvature membrane localization in clamping function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yu
- Key Laboratory of Cognitive Science, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Information Analysis and Tumor Diagnosis & Treatment, Laboratory of Membrane Ion Channels and Medicine, College of Biomedical Engineering, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, China
| | - Su Chen
- Key Laboratory of Cognitive Science, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Information Analysis and Tumor Diagnosis & Treatment, Laboratory of Membrane Ion Channels and Medicine, College of Biomedical Engineering, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Mo
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Jihong Gong
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chenhong Li
- Key Laboratory of Cognitive Science, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Information Analysis and Tumor Diagnosis & Treatment, Laboratory of Membrane Ion Channels and Medicine, College of Biomedical Engineering, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaofei Yang
- Key Laboratory of Cognitive Science, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Information Analysis and Tumor Diagnosis & Treatment, Laboratory of Membrane Ion Channels and Medicine, College of Biomedical Engineering, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, China
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24
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Wragg RT, Parisotto DA, Li Z, Terakawa MS, Snead D, Basu I, Weinstein H, Eliezer D, Dittman JS. Evolutionary Divergence of the C-terminal Domain of Complexin Accounts for Functional Disparities between Vertebrate and Invertebrate Complexins. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:146. [PMID: 28603484 PMCID: PMC5445133 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Complexin is a critical presynaptic protein that regulates both spontaneous and calcium-triggered neurotransmitter release in all synapses. Although the SNARE-binding central helix of complexin is highly conserved and required for all known complexin functions, the remainder of the protein has profoundly diverged across the animal kingdom. Striking disparities in complexin inhibitory activity are observed between vertebrate and invertebrate complexins but little is known about the source of these differences or their relevance to the underlying mechanism of complexin regulation. We found that mouse complexin 1 (mCpx1) failed to inhibit neurotransmitter secretion in Caenorhabditis elegans neuromuscular junctions lacking the worm complexin 1 (CPX-1). This lack of inhibition stemmed from differences in the C-terminal domain (CTD) of mCpx1. Previous studies revealed that the CTD selectively binds to highly curved membranes and directs complexin to synaptic vesicles. Although mouse and worm complexin have similar lipid binding affinity, their last few amino acids differ in both hydrophobicity and in lipid binding conformation, and these differences strongly impacted CPX-1 inhibitory function. Moreover, function was not maintained if a critical amphipathic helix in the worm CPX-1 CTD was replaced with the corresponding mCpx1 amphipathic helix. Invertebrate complexins generally shared more C-terminal similarity with vertebrate complexin 3 and 4 isoforms, and the amphipathic region of mouse complexin 3 significantly restored inhibitory function to worm CPX-1. We hypothesize that the CTD of complexin is essential in conferring an inhibitory function to complexin, and that this inhibitory activity has been attenuated in the vertebrate complexin 1 and 2 isoforms. Thus, evolutionary changes in the complexin CTD differentially shape its synaptic role across phylogeny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel T Wragg
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New YorkNY, United States
| | - Daniel A Parisotto
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New YorkNY, United States
| | - Zhenlong Li
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medical College, New YorkNY, United States
| | - Mayu S Terakawa
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New YorkNY, United States
| | - David Snead
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New YorkNY, United States
| | - Ishani Basu
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New YorkNY, United States
| | - Harel Weinstein
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medical College, New YorkNY, United States.,Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New YorkNY, United States
| | - David Eliezer
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New YorkNY, United States
| | - Jeremy S Dittman
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New YorkNY, United States
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25
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Snead D, Lai AL, Wragg RT, Parisotto DA, Ramlall TF, Dittman JS, Freed JH, Eliezer D. Unique Structural Features of Membrane-Bound C-Terminal Domain Motifs Modulate Complexin Inhibitory Function. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:154. [PMID: 28596722 PMCID: PMC5442187 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Complexin is a small soluble presynaptic protein that interacts with neuronal SNARE proteins in order to regulate synaptic vesicle exocytosis. While the SNARE-binding central helix of complexin is required for both the inhibition of spontaneous fusion and the facilitation of synchronous fusion, the disordered C-terminal domain (CTD) of complexin is specifically required for its inhibitory function. The CTD of worm complexin binds to membranes via two distinct motifs, one of which undergoes a membrane curvature dependent structural transition that is required for efficient inhibition of neurotransmitter release, but the conformations of the membrane-bound motifs remain poorly characterized. Visualizing these conformations is required to clarify the mechanisms by which complexin membrane interactions regulate its function. Here, we employ optical and magnetic resonance spectroscopy to precisely define the boundaries of the two CTD membrane-binding motifs and to characterize their conformations. We show that the curvature dependent amphipathic helical motif features an irregular element of helical structure, likely a pi-bulge, and that this feature is important for complexin inhibitory function in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Snead
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New YorkNY, United States
| | - Alex L Lai
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, IthacaNY, United States
| | - Rachel T Wragg
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New YorkNY, United States
| | - Daniel A Parisotto
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New YorkNY, United States
| | - Trudy F Ramlall
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New YorkNY, United States
| | - Jeremy S Dittman
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New YorkNY, United States
| | - Jack H Freed
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, IthacaNY, United States
| | - David Eliezer
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New YorkNY, United States
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26
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Vasin A, Volfson D, Littleton JT, Bykhovskaia M. Interaction of the Complexin Accessory Helix with Synaptobrevin Regulates Spontaneous Fusion. Biophys J 2016; 111:1954-1964. [PMID: 27806277 PMCID: PMC5102999 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2016.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2016] [Revised: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal transmitters are released from nerve terminals via the fusion of synaptic vesicles with the plasma membrane. Vesicles attach to membranes via a specialized protein machinery composed of membrane-attached (t-SNARE) and vesicle-attached (v-SNARE) proteins that zipper together to form a coiled-coil SNARE bundle that brings the two fusing membranes into close proximity. Neurotransmitter release may occur either in response to an action potential or through spontaneous fusion. A cytosolic protein, Complexin (Cpx), binds the SNARE complex and restricts spontaneous exocytosis by acting as a fusion clamp. We previously proposed a model in which the interaction between Cpx and the v-SNARE serves as a spring to prevent premature zippering of the SNARE complex, thereby reducing the likelihood of fusion. To test this model, we combined molecular-dynamics (MD) simulations and site-directed mutagenesis of Cpx and SNAREs in Drosophila. MD simulations of the Drosophila Cpx-SNARE complex demonstrated that Cpx's interaction with the v-SNARE promotes unraveling of the v-SNARE off the core SNARE bundle. We investigated clamping properties in the syx3-69 paralytic mutant, which has a single-point mutation in the t-SNARE and displays enhanced spontaneous release. MD simulations demonstrated an altered interaction of Cpx with the SNARE bundle that hindered v-SNARE unraveling by Cpx, thus compromising clamping. We used our model to predict mutations that should enhance the ability of Cpx to prevent full assembly of the SNARE complex. MD simulations predicted that a weakened interaction between the Cpx accessory helix and the v-SNARE would enhance Cpx flexibility and thus promote separation of SNAREs, reducing spontaneous fusion. We generated transgenic Drosophila with mutations in Cpx and the v-SNARE that disrupted a salt bridge between these two proteins. As predicted, both lines demonstrated a selective inhibition in spontaneous release, suggesting that Cpx acts as a fusion clamp that restricts full SNARE zippering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Vasin
- Department of Neurology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Dina Volfson
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | | | - Maria Bykhovskaia
- Department of Neurology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan.
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27
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Cork KM, Van Hook MJ, Thoreson WB. Mechanisms, pools, and sites of spontaneous vesicle release at synapses of rod and cone photoreceptors. Eur J Neurosci 2016; 44:2015-27. [PMID: 27255664 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2016] [Revised: 05/21/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Photoreceptors have depolarized resting potentials that stimulate calcium-dependent release continuously from a large vesicle pool but neurons can also release vesicles without stimulation. We characterized the Ca(2+) dependence, vesicle pools, and release sites involved in spontaneous release at photoreceptor ribbon synapses. In whole-cell recordings from light-adapted horizontal cells (HCs) of tiger salamander retina, we detected miniature excitatory post-synaptic currents (mEPSCs) when no stimulation was applied to promote exocytosis. Blocking Ca(2+) influx by lowering extracellular Ca(2+) , by application of Cd(2+) and other agents reduced the frequency of mEPSCs but did not eliminate them, indicating that mEPSCs can occur independently of Ca(2+) . We also measured release presynaptically from rods and cones by examining quantal glutamate transporter anion currents. Presynaptic quantal event frequency was reduced by Cd(2+) or by increased intracellular Ca(2+) buffering in rods, but not in cones, that were voltage clamped at -70 mV. By inhibiting the vesicle cycle with bafilomycin, we found the frequency of mEPSCs declined more rapidly than the amplitude of evoked excitatory post-synaptic currents (EPSCs) suggesting a possible separation between vesicle pools in evoked and spontaneous exocytosis. We mapped sites of Ca(2+) -independent release using total internal reflectance fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy to visualize fusion of individual vesicles loaded with dextran-conjugated pHrodo. Spontaneous release in rods occurred more frequently at non-ribbon sites than evoked release events. The function of Ca(2+) -independent spontaneous release at continuously active photoreceptor synapses remains unclear, but the low frequency of spontaneous quanta limits their impact on noise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlene M Cork
- Truhlsen Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, 4050 Durham Research Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5840, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Matthew J Van Hook
- Truhlsen Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, 4050 Durham Research Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5840, USA
| | - Wallace B Thoreson
- Truhlsen Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, 4050 Durham Research Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5840, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
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28
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Trimbuch T, Rosenmund C. Should I stop or should I go? The role of complexin in neurotransmitter release. Nat Rev Neurosci 2016; 17:118-25. [PMID: 26806630 DOI: 10.1038/nrn.2015.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
When it comes to fusion with the neuronal cell membrane, does a synaptic vesicle have a choice whether to stop or to go? Recent work suggests that complexin, a tiny protein found within the synaptic terminal, contributes to the mechanism through which this choice is made. How complexin plays this consulting part and which synaptic vesicle proteins it interacts with remain open questions. Indeed, studies in mice and flies have led to the proposal of different models of complexin function. We suggest that understanding the modular nature of complexin will help us to unpick its role in synaptic vesicle release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thorsten Trimbuch
- Neuroscience Research Center, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Chariteplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian Rosenmund
- Neuroscience Research Center, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Chariteplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
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29
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Cho RW, Buhl LK, Volfson D, Tran A, Li F, Akbergenova Y, Littleton JT. Phosphorylation of Complexin by PKA Regulates Activity-Dependent Spontaneous Neurotransmitter Release and Structural Synaptic Plasticity. Neuron 2016; 88:749-61. [PMID: 26590346 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2015.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2015] [Revised: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 09/29/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Synaptic plasticity is a fundamental feature of the nervous system that allows adaptation to changing behavioral environments. Most studies of synaptic plasticity have examined the regulated trafficking of postsynaptic glutamate receptors that generates alterations in synaptic transmission. Whether and how changes in the presynaptic release machinery contribute to neuronal plasticity is less clear. The SNARE complex mediates neurotransmitter release in response to presynaptic Ca(2+) entry. Here we show that the SNARE fusion clamp Complexin undergoes activity-dependent phosphorylation that alters the basic properties of neurotransmission in Drosophila. Retrograde signaling following stimulation activates PKA-dependent phosphorylation of the Complexin C terminus that selectively and transiently enhances spontaneous release. Enhanced spontaneous release is required for activity-dependent synaptic growth. These data indicate that SNARE-dependent fusion mechanisms can be regulated in an activity-dependent manner and highlight the key role of spontaneous neurotransmitter release as a mediator of functional and structural plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard W Cho
- Department of Biology and Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
| | - Lauren K Buhl
- Department of Biology and Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Dina Volfson
- Department of Biology and Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Adrienne Tran
- Department of Biology and Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Nanobiology Institute, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Yulia Akbergenova
- Department of Biology and Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - J Troy Littleton
- Department of Biology and Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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30
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Crawford DC, Kavalali ET. Molecular underpinnings of synaptic vesicle pool heterogeneity. Traffic 2015; 16:338-64. [PMID: 25620674 DOI: 10.1111/tra.12262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2014] [Revised: 01/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal communication relies on chemical synaptic transmission for information transfer and processing. Chemical neurotransmission is initiated by synaptic vesicle fusion with the presynaptic active zone resulting in release of neurotransmitters. Classical models have assumed that all synaptic vesicles within a synapse have the same potential to fuse under different functional contexts. In this model, functional differences among synaptic vesicle populations are ascribed to their spatial distribution in the synapse with respect to the active zone. Emerging evidence suggests, however, that synaptic vesicles are not a homogenous population of organelles, and they possess intrinsic molecular differences and differential interaction partners. Recent studies have reported a diverse array of synaptic molecules that selectively regulate synaptic vesicles' ability to fuse synchronously and asynchronously in response to action potentials or spontaneously irrespective of action potentials. Here we discuss these molecular mediators of vesicle pool heterogeneity that are found on the synaptic vesicle membrane, on the presynaptic plasma membrane, or within the cytosol and consider some of the functional consequences of this diversity. This emerging molecular framework presents novel avenues to probe synaptic function and uncover how synaptic vesicle pools impact neuronal signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devon C Crawford
- Department of Neuroscience, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX 75390-9111, USA
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31
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Bacaj T, Wu D, Burré J, Malenka RC, Liu X, Südhof TC. Synaptotagmin-1 and -7 Are Redundantly Essential for Maintaining the Capacity of the Readily-Releasable Pool of Synaptic Vesicles. PLoS Biol 2015; 13:e1002267. [PMID: 26437117 PMCID: PMC4593569 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.1002267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In forebrain neurons, Ca(2+) triggers exocytosis of readily releasable vesicles by binding to synaptotagmin-1 and -7, thereby inducing fast and slow vesicle exocytosis, respectively. Loss-of-function of synaptotagmin-1 or -7 selectively impairs the fast and slow phase of release, respectively, but does not change the size of the readily-releasable pool (RRP) of vesicles as measured by stimulation of release with hypertonic sucrose, or alter the rate of vesicle priming into the RRP. Here we show, however, that simultaneous loss-of-function of both synaptotagmin-1 and -7 dramatically decreased the capacity of the RRP, again without altering the rate of vesicle priming into the RRP. Either synaptotagmin-1 or -7 was sufficient to rescue the RRP size in neurons lacking both synaptotagmin-1 and -7. Although maintenance of RRP size was Ca(2+)-independent, mutations in Ca(2+)-binding sequences of synaptotagmin-1 or synaptotagmin-7--which are contained in flexible top-loop sequences of their C2 domains--blocked the ability of these synaptotagmins to maintain the RRP size. Both synaptotagmins bound to SNARE complexes; SNARE complex binding was reduced by the top-loop mutations that impaired RRP maintenance. Thus, synaptotagmin-1 and -7 perform redundant functions in maintaining the capacity of the RRP in addition to nonredundant functions in the Ca(2+) triggering of different phases of release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taulant Bacaj
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Dick Wu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University Medical School, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Jacqueline Burré
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Robert C. Malenka
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University Medical School, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Xinran Liu
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Thomas C. Südhof
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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32
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Harris KP, Littleton JT. Transmission, Development, and Plasticity of Synapses. Genetics 2015; 201:345-75. [PMID: 26447126 PMCID: PMC4596655 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.115.176529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 05/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemical synapses are sites of contact and information transfer between a neuron and its partner cell. Each synapse is a specialized junction, where the presynaptic cell assembles machinery for the release of neurotransmitter, and the postsynaptic cell assembles components to receive and integrate this signal. Synapses also exhibit plasticity, during which synaptic function and/or structure are modified in response to activity. With a robust panel of genetic, imaging, and electrophysiology approaches, and strong evolutionary conservation of molecular components, Drosophila has emerged as an essential model system for investigating the mechanisms underlying synaptic assembly, function, and plasticity. We will discuss techniques for studying synapses in Drosophila, with a focus on the larval neuromuscular junction (NMJ), a well-established model glutamatergic synapse. Vesicle fusion, which underlies synaptic release of neurotransmitters, has been well characterized at this synapse. In addition, studies of synaptic assembly and organization of active zones and postsynaptic densities have revealed pathways that coordinate those events across the synaptic cleft. We will also review modes of synaptic growth and plasticity at the fly NMJ, and discuss how pre- and postsynaptic cells communicate to regulate plasticity in response to activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn P Harris
- Department of Biology and Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
| | - J Troy Littleton
- Department of Biology and Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
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33
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Yang X, Pei J, Kaeser-Woo YJ, Bacaj T, Grishin NV, Südhof TC. Evolutionary conservation of complexins: from choanoflagellates to mice. EMBO Rep 2015; 16:1308-17. [PMID: 26338476 DOI: 10.15252/embr.201540305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2015] [Accepted: 08/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Complexins are synaptic SNARE complex-binding proteins that cooperate with synaptotagmins in activating Ca(2+)-stimulated, synaptotagmin-dependent synaptic vesicle exocytosis and in clamping spontaneous, synaptotagmin-independent synaptic vesicle exocytosis. Here, we show that complexin sequences are conserved in some non-metazoan unicellular organisms and in all metazoans, suggesting that complexins are a universal feature of metazoans that predate metazoan evolution. We show that complexin from Nematostella vectensis, a cnidarian sea anemone far separated from mammals in metazoan evolution, functionally replaces mouse complexins in activating Ca(2+)-triggered exocytosis, but is unable to clamp spontaneous exocytosis. Thus, the activating function of complexins is likely conserved throughout metazoan evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofei Yang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA College of Biomedical Engineering, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, China
| | - Jimin Pei
- Department of Biophysics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Yea Jin Kaeser-Woo
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Taulant Bacaj
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Nick V Grishin
- Department of Biophysics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Thomas C Südhof
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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34
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Mohrmann R, Dhara M, Bruns D. Complexins: small but capable. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:4221-35. [PMID: 26245303 PMCID: PMC4611016 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-1998-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Revised: 07/09/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Despite intensive research, it is still unclear how an immediate and profound acceleration of exocytosis is triggered by appropriate Ca(2+)-stimuli in presynaptic terminals. This is due to the fact that the molecular mechanisms of "docking" and "priming" reactions, which set up secretory vesicles to fuse at millisecond time scale, are extremely hard to study. Yet, driven by a fruitful combination of in vitro and in vivo analyses, our mechanistic understanding of Ca(2+)-triggered vesicle fusion has certainly advanced in the past few years. In this review, we aim to highlight recent progress and emerging views on the molecular mechanisms, by which constitutively forming SNAREpins are organized in functional, tightly regulated units for synchronized release. In particular, we will focus on the role of the small regulatory factor complexin whose function in Ca(2+)-dependent exocytosis has been controversially discussed for more than a decade. Special emphasis will also be laid on the functional relationship of complexin and synaptotagmin, as both proteins possibly act as allies and/or antagonists to govern SNARE-mediated exocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Mohrmann
- Zentrum für Human- und Molekularbiologie, University of Saarland, CIPMM, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Germany. .,Medical Faculty, Department of Physiology, University of Saarland, CIPMM, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Germany.
| | - Madhurima Dhara
- Medical Faculty, Department of Physiology, University of Saarland, CIPMM, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Dieter Bruns
- Medical Faculty, Department of Physiology, University of Saarland, CIPMM, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Germany.
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35
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Snead D, Wragg RT, Dittman JS, Eliezer D. Membrane curvature sensing by the C-terminal domain of complexin. Nat Commun 2014; 5:4955. [PMID: 25229806 PMCID: PMC4180495 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms5955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Accepted: 08/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Complexin functions at presynaptic nerve terminals to inhibit spontaneous SNARE-mediated synaptic vesicle exocytosis, while enhancing stimulated neurotransmitter release. The C-terminal domain (CTD) of complexin is essential for its inhibitory function and has been implicated in localizing complexin to synaptic vesicles via direct membrane interactions. Here we show that complexin's CTD is highly sensitive to membrane curvature, which it senses via tandem motifs, a C-terminal motif containing a mix of bulky hydrophobic and positively charged residues, and an adjacent amphipathic region that can bind membranes in either a disordered or a helical conformation. Helix formation requires membrane packing defects found on highly curved membrane surfaces. Mutations that disrupt helix formation without disrupting membrane binding compromise complexin's inhibitory function in vivo. Thus, this membrane curvature-dependent conformational transition, combined with curvature sensitive binding by the adjacent C-terminal motif, constitute a novel mechanism for activating complexin's inhibitory function on the surface of synaptic vesicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Snead
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Rachel T Wragg
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Jeremy S Dittman
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - David Eliezer
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York 10065, USA
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36
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Genetic analysis of the Complexin trans-clamping model for cross-linking SNARE complexes in vivo. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2014; 111:10317-22. [PMID: 24982161 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1409311111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Complexin (Cpx) is a SNARE-binding protein that regulates neurotransmission by clamping spontaneous synaptic vesicle fusion in the absence of Ca(2+) influx while promoting evoked release in response to an action potential. Previous studies indicated Cpx may cross-link multiple SNARE complexes via a trans interaction to function as a fusion clamp. During Ca(2+) influx, Cpx is predicted to undergo a conformational switch and collapse onto a single SNARE complex in a cis-binding mode to activate vesicle release. To test this model in vivo, we performed structure-function studies of the Cpx protein in Drosophila. Using genetic rescue approaches with cpx mutants that disrupt SNARE cross-linking, we find that manipulations that are predicted to block formation of the trans SNARE array disrupt the clamping function of Cpx. Unexpectedly, these same mutants rescue action potential-triggered release, indicating trans-SNARE cross-linking by Cpx is not a prerequisite for triggering evoked fusion. In contrast, mutations that impair Cpx-mediated cis-SNARE interactions that are necessary for transition from an open to closed conformation fail to rescue evoked release defects in cpx mutants, although they clamp spontaneous release normally. Our in vivo genetic manipulations support several predictions made by the Cpx cross-linking model, but unexpected results suggest additional mechanisms are likely to exist that regulate Cpx's effects on SNARE-mediated fusion. Our findings also indicate that the inhibitory and activating functions of Cpx are genetically separable, and can be mapped to distinct molecular mechanisms that differentially regulate the SNARE fusion machinery.
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37
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Deconstructing complexin function in activating and clamping Ca2+-triggered exocytosis by comparing knockout and knockdown phenotypes. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2013; 110:20777-82. [PMID: 24297916 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1321367110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Complexin, a presynaptic protein that avidly binds to assembled SNARE complexes, is widely acknowledged to activate Ca(2+)-triggered exocytosis. In addition, studies of invertebrate complexin mutants and of mouse neurons with a double knockdown (DKD) of complexin-1 and -2 suggested that complexin maintains the readily releasable pool (RRP) of vesicles and clamps spontaneous exocytosis. In contrast, studies of mouse neurons with a double knockout (DKO) of complexin-1 and -2, largely carried out in hippocampal autapses, did not detect changes in the RRP size or in spontaneous exocytosis. To clarify complexin function, we here directly compared in two different preparations, cultured cortical and olfactory bulb neurons, the phenotypes of complexin DKD and DKO neurons. We find that complexin-deficient DKD and DKO neurons invariably exhibit a ~50% decrease in vesicle priming. Moreover, the DKD consistently increased spontaneous exocytosis, but the DKO did so in cortical but not olfactory bulb neurons. Furthermore, the complexin DKD but not the complexin DKO caused a compensatory increase in complexin-3 and -4 mRNA levels; overexpression of complexin-3 but not complexin-1 increased spontaneous exocytosis. Complexin-3 but not complexin-1 contains a C-terminal lipid anchor attaching it to the plasma membrane; addition of a similar lipid anchor to complexin-1 converted complexin-1 from a clamp into an activator of spontaneous exocytosis. Viewed together, our data suggest that complexin generally functions in priming and Ca(2+) triggering of exocytosis, and additionally contributes to the control of spontaneous exocytosis dependent on the developmental history of a neuron and on the subcellular localization of the complexin.
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38
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Stabilization of spontaneous neurotransmitter release at ribbon synapses by ribbon-specific subtypes of complexin. J Neurosci 2013; 33:8216-26. [PMID: 23658160 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1280-12.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Ribbon synapses of tonically releasing sensory neurons must provide a large pool of releasable vesicles for sustained release, while minimizing spontaneous release in the absence of stimulation. Complexins are presynaptic proteins that may accomplish this dual task at conventional synapses by interacting with the molecular machinery of synaptic vesicle fusion at the active zone to retard spontaneous vesicle exocytosis yet facilitate release evoked by depolarization. However, ribbon synapses of photoreceptor cells and bipolar neurons in the retina express distinct complexin subtypes, perhaps reflecting the special requirements of these synapses for tonic release. To investigate the role of ribbon-specific complexins in transmitter release, we combined presynaptic voltage clamp, fluorescence imaging, electron microscopy, and behavioral assays of photoreceptive function in zebrafish. Acute interference with complexin function using a peptide derived from the SNARE-binding domain increased spontaneous synaptic vesicle fusion at ribbon synapses of retinal bipolar neurons without affecting release triggered by depolarization. Knockdown of complexin by injection of an antisense morpholino into zebrafish embryos prevented photoreceptor-driven migration of pigment in skin melanophores and caused the pigment distribution to remain in the dark-adapted state even when embryos were exposed to light. This suggests that loss of complexin function elevated spontaneous release in illuminated photoreceptors sufficiently to mimic the higher release rate normally associated with darkness, thus interfering with visual signaling. We conclude that visual system-specific complexins are required for proper illumination-dependent modulation of the rate of neurotransmitter release at visual system ribbon synapses.
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39
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Iyer J, Wahlmark CJ, Kuser-Ahnert GA, Kawasaki F. Molecular mechanisms of COMPLEXIN fusion clamp function in synaptic exocytosis revealed in a new Drosophila mutant. Mol Cell Neurosci 2013; 56:244-54. [PMID: 23769723 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2013.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2013] [Accepted: 06/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The COMPLEXIN (CPX) proteins play a critical role in synaptic vesicle fusion and neurotransmitter release. Previous studies demonstrated that CPX functions in both activation of evoked neurotransmitter release and inhibition/clamping of spontaneous synaptic vesicle fusion. Here we report a new cpx mutant in Drosophila melanogaster, cpx(1257), revealing spatially defined and separable pools of CPX which make distinct contributions to the activation and clamping functions. In cpx(1257), lack of only the last C-terminal amino acid of CPX is predicted to disrupt prenylation and membrane targeting of CPX. Immunocytochemical analysis established localization of wild-type CPX to active zone (AZ) regions containing neurotransmitter release sites as well as broader presynaptic membrane compartments including synaptic vesicles. Parallel biochemical studies confirmed CPX membrane association and demonstrated robust binding interactions of CPX with all three SNAREs. This is in contrast to the cpx(1257) mutant, in which AZ localization of CPX persists but general membrane localization and, surprisingly, the bulk of CPX-SNARE protein interactions are abolished. Furthermore, electrophysiological analysis of neuromuscular synapses revealed interesting differences between cpx(1257) and a cpx null mutant. The cpx null exhibited a marked decrease in the EPSC amplitude, slowed EPSC rise and decay times and an increased mEPSC frequency with respect to wild-type. In contrast, cpx(1257) exhibited a wild-type EPSC with an increased mEPSC frequency and thus a selective failure to clamp spontaneous release. These results indicate that spatially distinct and separable interactions of CPX with presynaptic membranes and SNARE proteins mediate separable activation and clamping functions of CPX in neurotransmitter release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janani Iyer
- Department of Biology and Center for Molecular Investigation of Neurological Disorders, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, United States
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