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Meijer M, Öttl M, Yang J, Subkhangulova A, Kumar A, Feng Z, van Voorst TW, Groffen AJ, van Weering JRT, Zhang Y, Verhage M. Tomosyns attenuate SNARE assembly and synaptic depression by binding to VAMP2-containing template complexes. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2652. [PMID: 38531902 PMCID: PMC10965968 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46828-1] [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: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Tomosyns are widely thought to attenuate membrane fusion by competing with synaptobrevin-2/VAMP2 for SNARE-complex assembly. Here, we present evidence against this scenario. In a novel mouse model, tomosyn-1/2 deficiency lowered the fusion barrier and enhanced the probability that synaptic vesicles fuse, resulting in stronger synapses with faster depression and slower recovery. While wild-type tomosyn-1m rescued these phenotypes, substitution of its SNARE motif with that of synaptobrevin-2/VAMP2 did not. Single-molecule force measurements indeed revealed that tomosyn's SNARE motif cannot substitute synaptobrevin-2/VAMP2 to form template complexes with Munc18-1 and syntaxin-1, an essential intermediate for SNARE assembly. Instead, tomosyns extensively bind synaptobrevin-2/VAMP2-containing template complexes and prevent SNAP-25 association. Structure-function analyses indicate that the C-terminal polybasic region contributes to tomosyn's inhibitory function. These results reveal that tomosyns regulate synaptic transmission by cooperating with synaptobrevin-2/VAMP2 to prevent SNAP-25 binding during SNARE assembly, thereby limiting initial synaptic strength and equalizing it during repetitive stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marieke Meijer
- Department of Human Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam University Medical Center, 1081HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Miriam Öttl
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA.
| | - Aygul Subkhangulova
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Avinash Kumar
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA
| | - Zicheng Feng
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA
| | - Torben W van Voorst
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander J Groffen
- Department of Human Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam University Medical Center, 1081HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan R T van Weering
- Department of Human Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam University Medical Center, 1081HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yongli Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA.
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA.
| | - Matthijs Verhage
- Department of Human Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam University Medical Center, 1081HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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2
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Hulsey-Vincent H, McClain M, Buckley M, Kowalski JR, Dahlberg CL. Comparison and agreement between two image analysis tools for quantifying GFP::SNB-1 puncta in fshr-1 mutants of C. elegans. MICROPUBLICATION BIOLOGY 2023; 2023:10.17912/micropub.biology.001005. [PMID: 38162412 PMCID: PMC10755584 DOI: 10.17912/micropub.biology.001005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Quantitative imaging of synaptic vesicle localization and abundance using fluorescently labeled synaptic vesicle associated proteins like GFP::SNB-1 is a well-established method for measuring changes in synapse structure at neuromuscular junctions (NMJ) in C. elegans . To date, however, the ability to easily and reproducibly measure key parameters at the NMJ - maximum intensity, size of GFP::SNB-1 puncta, density of puncta - has relied on the use of expensive, customizable software that requires coding skills to modify, precluding widespread access and thus preventing standardization within the field. We carried out a comparative evaluation of a new, open-source Fiji puncta plugin versus traditional Igor-based analysis of GFP::SNB-1 imaging data taken of cholinergic motor neurons in the dorsal nerve cord of loss of function mutants in fshr-1 , which encodes a G protein-coupled receptor known to impact GFP::SNB-1 accumulation. We analyzed images taken on a widefield fluorescence microscope, as well as on a spinning disk confocal microscope. Our data demonstrate strong concordance between the differences in GFP::SNB-1 localization in fshr-1 mutants compared to wild type worms across both analysis platforms (Fiji and Igor), as well as across microscope types (widefield and confocal). These data also agree with previously published observations related to synapse number and GFP::SNB-1 intensity in fshr-1 and wild type worms. Based on these findings, we conclude that the Fiji platform is viable as a method for analyzing synaptic vesicle localization and abundance at cholinergic dorsal nerve cord motor NMJs and expect the Fiji puncta plugin to be of broad utility in imaging across a variety of imaging platforms and synaptic markers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Makenzi McClain
- Biological Sciences, Butler University, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
| | - Morgan Buckley
- Biological Sciences, Butler University, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
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3
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Huang M, Wang Y, Chow CH, Stepien KP, Indrawinata K, Xu J, Argiropoulos P, Xie X, Sugita K, Tien CW, Lee S, Monnier PP, Rizo J, Gao S, Sugita S. Double mutation of open syntaxin and UNC-18 P334A leads to excitatory-inhibitory imbalance and impairs multiple aspects of C. elegans behavior. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.18.553709. [PMID: 37645974 PMCID: PMC10462135 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.18.553709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
SNARE and Sec/Munc18 proteins are essential in synaptic vesicle exocytosis. Open form t-SNARE syntaxin and UNC-18 P334A are well-studied exocytosis-enhancing mutants. Here we investigate the interrelationship between the two mutations by generating double mutants in various genetic backgrounds in C. elegans. While each single mutation rescued the motility of CAPS/unc-31 and synaptotagmin/snt-1 mutants significantly, double mutations unexpectedly worsened motility or lost their rescuing effects. Electrophysiological analyses revealed that simultaneous mutations of open syntaxin and gain-of-function P334A UNC-18 induces a strong imbalance of excitatory over inhibitory transmission. In liposome fusion assays performed with mammalian proteins, the enhancement of fusion caused by the two mutations individually was abolished when the two mutations were introduced simultaneously, consistent with what we observed in C. elegans. We conclude that open syntaxin and P334A UNC-18 do not have additive beneficial effects, and this extends to C. elegans' characteristics such as motility, growth, offspring bared, body size, and exocytosis, as well as liposome fusion in vitro. Our results also reveal unexpected differences between the regulation of exocytosis in excitatory versus inhibitory synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjia Huang
- Division of Experimental & Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Ontario, M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Ya Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Chun Hin Chow
- Division of Experimental & Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Ontario, M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Karolina P. Stepien
- Departments of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, 75390, USA
| | - Karen Indrawinata
- Division of Experimental & Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Ontario, M5T 0S8, Canada
| | - Junjie Xu
- Departments of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, 75390, USA
| | - Peter Argiropoulos
- Division of Experimental & Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Ontario, M5T 0S8, Canada
| | - Xiaoyu Xie
- Division of Experimental & Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Ontario, M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dalian Municipal Friendship Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Kyoko Sugita
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, University Health Network, Ontario, M5T 0S8, Canada; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Chi-Wei Tien
- Division of Experimental & Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Ontario, M5T 0S8, Canada
| | - Soomin Lee
- Division of Experimental & Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Ontario, M5T 0S8, Canada
| | - Philippe P. Monnier
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, University Health Network, Ontario, M5T 0S8, Canada; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Josep Rizo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dalian Municipal Friendship Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Shangbang Gao
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging of the Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Shuzo Sugita
- Division of Experimental & Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Ontario, M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada
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4
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Subkhangulova A, Gonzalez-Lozano MA, Groffen AJA, van Weering JRT, Smit AB, Toonen RF, Verhage M. Tomosyn affects dense core vesicle composition but not exocytosis in mammalian neurons. eLife 2023; 12:e85561. [PMID: 37695731 PMCID: PMC10495110 DOI: 10.7554/elife.85561] [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: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Tomosyn is a large, non-canonical SNARE protein proposed to act as an inhibitor of SNARE complex formation in the exocytosis of secretory vesicles. In the brain, tomosyn inhibits the fusion of synaptic vesicles (SVs), whereas its role in the fusion of neuropeptide-containing dense core vesicles (DCVs) is unknown. Here, we addressed this question using a new mouse model with a conditional deletion of tomosyn (Stxbp5) and its paralogue tomosyn-2 (Stxbp5l). We monitored DCV exocytosis at single vesicle resolution in tomosyn-deficient primary neurons using a validated pHluorin-based assay. Surprisingly, loss of tomosyns did not affect the number of DCV fusion events but resulted in a strong reduction of intracellular levels of DCV cargos, such as neuropeptide Y (NPY) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF levels were largely restored by re-expression of tomosyn but not by inhibition of lysosomal proteolysis. Tomosyn's SNARE domain was dispensable for the rescue. The size of the trans-Golgi network and DCVs was decreased, and the speed of DCV cargo flux through Golgi was increased in tomosyn-deficient neurons, suggesting a role for tomosyns in DCV biogenesis. Additionally, tomosyn-deficient neurons showed impaired mRNA expression of some DCV cargos, which was not restored by re-expression of tomosyn and was also observed in Cre-expressing wild-type neurons not carrying loxP sites, suggesting a direct effect of Cre recombinase on neuronal transcription. Taken together, our findings argue against an inhibitory role of tomosyns in neuronal DCV exocytosis and suggests an evolutionary conserved function of tomosyns in the packaging of secretory cargo at the Golgi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aygul Subkhangulova
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Vrije Universiteit (VU) AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Miguel A Gonzalez-Lozano
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Vrije Universiteit (VU) AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Alexander JA Groffen
- Department of Human Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC)AmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Jan RT van Weering
- Department of Human Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC)AmsterdamNetherlands
| | - August B Smit
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Vrije Universiteit (VU) AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Ruud F Toonen
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Vrije Universiteit (VU) AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Matthijs Verhage
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Vrije Universiteit (VU) AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
- Department of Human Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC)AmsterdamNetherlands
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5
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Mahadik SS, Lundquist EA. TOM-1/tomosyn acts with the UNC-6/netrin receptor UNC-5 to inhibit growth cone protrusion in Caenorhabditis elegans. Development 2023; 150:dev201031. [PMID: 37014062 PMCID: PMC10112904 DOI: 10.1242/dev.201031] [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: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
In the polarity/protrusion model of growth cone repulsion from UNC-6/netrin, UNC-6 first polarizes the growth cone of the VD motor neuron axon via the UNC-5 receptor, and then regulates protrusion asymmetrically across the growth cone based on this polarity. UNC-6 stimulates protrusion dorsally through the UNC-40/DCC receptor, and inhibits protrusion ventrally through UNC-5, resulting in net dorsal growth. Previous studies showed that UNC-5 inhibits growth cone protrusion via the flavin monooxygenases and potential destabilization of F-actin, and via UNC-33/CRMP and restriction of microtubule plus-end entry into the growth cone. We show that UNC-5 inhibits protrusion through a third mechanism involving TOM-1/tomosyn. A short isoform of TOM-1 inhibited protrusion downstream of UNC-5, and a long isoform had a pro-protrusive role. TOM-1/tomosyn inhibits formation of the SNARE complex. We show that UNC-64/syntaxin is required for growth cone protrusion, consistent with a role of TOM-1 in inhibiting vesicle fusion. Our results are consistent with a model whereby UNC-5 utilizes TOM-1 to inhibit vesicle fusion, resulting in inhibited growth cone protrusion, possibly by preventing the growth cone plasma membrane addition required for protrusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Snehal S. Mahadik
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Avenue, 5049 Haworth Hall, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - Erik A. Lundquist
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Avenue, 5049 Haworth Hall, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
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6
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Zhang L, Li L, Wei Z, Zhou H, Liu H, Wang S, Ren Y, Dai T, Wang J, Hu Z, Ma C. The C 2 and PH domains of CAPS constitute an effective PI(4,5)P2-binding unit essential for Ca 2+-regulated exocytosis. Structure 2023; 31:424-434.e6. [PMID: 36863339 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2023.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
Ca2+-dependent activator proteins for secretion (CAPSs) are required for Ca2+-regulated exocytosis in neurons and neuroendocrine cells. CAPSs contain a pleckstrin homology (PH) domain that binds PI(4,5)P2-membrane. There is also a C2 domain residing adjacent to the PH domain, but its function remains unclear. In this study, we solved the crystal structure of the CAPS-1 C2PH module. The structure showed that the C2 and PH tandem packs against one another mainly via hydrophobic residues. With this interaction, the C2PH module exhibited enhanced binding to PI(4,5)P2-membrane compared with the isolated PH domain. In addition, we identified a new PI(4,5)P2-binding site on the C2 domain. Disruption of either the tight interaction between the C2 and PH domains or the PI(4,5)P2-binding sites on both domains significantly impairs CAPS-1 function in Ca2+-regulated exocytosis at the Caenorhabditis elegans neuromuscular junction (NMJ). These results suggest that the C2 and PH domains constitute an effective unit to promote Ca2+-regulated exocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Li
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Ziqing Wei
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Hao Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Haowen Liu
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Shen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yijing Ren
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tiankai Dai
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiafan Wang
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Zhitao Hu
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Cong Ma
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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7
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van Bommel DM, Toonen RF, Verhage M. Mapping localization of 21 endogenous proteins in the Golgi apparatus of rodent neurons. Sci Rep 2023; 13:2871. [PMID: 36806293 PMCID: PMC9938882 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29998-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The Golgi apparatus is the major sorting hub in the secretory pathway and particularly important for protein sorting in neurons. Knowledge about protein localization in Golgi compartments is largely based on work in cell lines. Here, we systematically compared protein localization of 21 endogenous proteins in the Golgi apparatus of mouse neurons using confocal microscopy and line scan analysis. We localized these proteins by measuring the distance relative to the canonical TGN marker TGN38. Based on this, proteins fell into three groups: upstream of, overlapping with or downstream of TGN38. Seven proteins showed complete overlap with TGN38, while proteins downstream of TGN38 were located at varying distances from TGN38. Proteins upstream of TGN38 were localized in between TGN38 and the cis-/medial Golgi markers Giantin and GM130. This localization was consistent with protein function. Our data provide an overview of the relative localization of endogenous proteins in the Golgi of primary mouse neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danique M. van Bommel
- grid.12380.380000 0004 1754 9227Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Vrije Universiteit (VU) Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ruud F. Toonen
- grid.12380.380000 0004 1754 9227Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Vrije Universiteit (VU) Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Matthijs Verhage
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Vrije Universiteit (VU) Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. .,Functional Genomics, Department of Human Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), UMC Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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8
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Mizumoto K, Jin Y, Bessereau JL. Synaptogenesis: unmasking molecular mechanisms using Caenorhabditis elegans. Genetics 2023; 223:iyac176. [PMID: 36630525 PMCID: PMC9910414 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyac176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is a research model organism particularly suited to the mechanistic understanding of synapse genesis in the nervous system. Armed with powerful genetics, knowledge of complete connectomics, and modern genomics, studies using C. elegans have unveiled multiple key regulators in the formation of a functional synapse. Importantly, many signaling networks display remarkable conservation throughout animals, underscoring the contributions of C. elegans research to advance the understanding of our brain. In this chapter, we will review up-to-date information of the contribution of C. elegans to the understanding of chemical synapses, from structure to molecules and to synaptic remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kota Mizumoto
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Yishi Jin
- Department of Neurobiology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Jean-Louis Bessereau
- Univ Lyon, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS UMR 5284, INSERM U 1314, Melis, 69008 Lyon, France
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Palfreyman MT, West SE, Jorgensen EM. SNARE Proteins in Synaptic Vesicle Fusion. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 33:63-118. [PMID: 37615864 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-34229-5_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Neurotransmitters are stored in small membrane-bound vesicles at synapses; a subset of synaptic vesicles is docked at release sites. Fusion of docked vesicles with the plasma membrane releases neurotransmitters. Membrane fusion at synapses, as well as all trafficking steps of the secretory pathway, is mediated by SNARE proteins. The SNAREs are the minimal fusion machinery. They zipper from N-termini to membrane-anchored C-termini to form a 4-helix bundle that forces the apposed membranes to fuse. At synapses, the SNAREs comprise a single helix from syntaxin and synaptobrevin; SNAP-25 contributes the other two helices to complete the bundle. Unc13 mediates synaptic vesicle docking and converts syntaxin into the permissive "open" configuration. The SM protein, Unc18, is required to initiate and proofread SNARE assembly. The SNAREs are then held in a half-zippered state by synaptotagmin and complexin. Calcium removes the synaptotagmin and complexin block, and the SNAREs drive vesicle fusion. After fusion, NSF and alpha-SNAP unwind the SNAREs and thereby recharge the system for further rounds of fusion. In this chapter, we will describe the discovery of the SNAREs, their relevant structural features, models for their function, and the central role of Unc18. In addition, we will touch upon the regulation of SNARE complex formation by Unc13, complexin, and synaptotagmin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark T Palfreyman
- School of Biological Sciences, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Sam E West
- School of Biological Sciences, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Erik M Jorgensen
- School of Biological Sciences, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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10
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Meunier FA, Hu Z. Functional Roles of UNC-13/Munc13 and UNC-18/Munc18 in Neurotransmission. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 33:203-231. [PMID: 37615868 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-34229-5_8] [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
Neurotransmitters are released from synaptic and secretory vesicles following calcium-triggered fusion with the plasma membrane. These exocytotic events are driven by assembly of a ternary SNARE complex between the vesicle SNARE synaptobrevin and the plasma membrane-associated SNAREs syntaxin and SNAP-25. Proteins that affect SNARE complex assembly are therefore important regulators of synaptic strength. In this chapter, we review our current understanding of the roles played by two SNARE interacting proteins: UNC-13/Munc13 and UNC-18/Munc18. We discuss results from both invertebrate and vertebrate model systems, highlighting recent advances, focusing on the current consensus on molecular mechanisms of action and nanoscale organization, and pointing out some unresolved aspects of their functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric A Meunier
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research (CJCADR), Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Zhitao Hu
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research (CJCADR), Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
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11
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Chow CH, Huang M, Sugita S. The Role of Tomosyn in the Regulation of Neurotransmitter Release. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 33:233-254. [PMID: 37615869 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-34229-5_9] [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
Soluble NSF attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins play a central role in synaptic vesicle (SV) exocytosis. These proteins include the vesicle-associated SNARE protein (v-SNARE) synaptobrevin and the target membrane-associated SNARE proteins (t-SNAREs) syntaxin and SNAP-25. Together, these proteins drive membrane fusion between synaptic vesicles (SV) and the presynaptic plasma membrane to generate SV exocytosis. In the presynaptic active zone, various proteins may either enhance or inhibit SV exocytosis by acting on the SNAREs. Among the inhibitory proteins, tomosyn, a syntaxin-binding protein, is of particular importance because it plays a critical and evolutionarily conserved role in controlling synaptic transmission. In this chapter, we describe how tomosyn was discovered, how it interacts with SNAREs and other presynaptic regulatory proteins to regulate SV exocytosis and synaptic plasticity, and how its various domains contribute to its synaptic functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Hin Chow
- Division of Experimental & Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mengjia Huang
- Division of Experimental & Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Shuzo Sugita
- Division of Experimental & Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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12
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Wang ZW, Niu L, Riaz S. Regulation of Ryanodine Receptor-Dependent Neurotransmitter Release by AIP, Calstabins, and Presenilins. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 33:287-304. [PMID: 37615871 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-34229-5_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Ryanodine receptors (RyRs) are Ca2+ release channels located in the endoplasmic reticulum membrane. Presynaptic RyRs play important roles in neurotransmitter release and synaptic plasticity. Recent studies suggest that the proper function of presynaptic RyRs relies on several regulatory proteins, including aryl hydrocarbon receptor-interacting protein, calstabins, and presenilins. Dysfunctions of these regulatory proteins can greatly impact neurotransmitter release and synaptic plasticity by altering the function or expression of RyRs. This chapter aims to describe the interaction between these proteins and RyRs, elucidating their crucial role in regulating synaptic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao-Wen Wang
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.
| | - Longgang Niu
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Sadaf Riaz
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
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13
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Parra-Rivas LA, Palfreyman MT, Vu TN, Jorgensen EM. Interspecies complementation identifies a pathway to assemble SNAREs. iScience 2022; 25:104506. [PMID: 35754735 PMCID: PMC9213704 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Unc18 and SNARE proteins form the core of the membrane fusion complex at synapses. To understand the functional interactions within the core machinery, we adopted an "interspecies complementation" approach in Caenorhabditis elegans. Substitutions of individual SNAREs and Unc18 proteins with those from yeast fail to rescue fusion. However, synaptic transmission could be restored in worm-yeast chimeras when two key interfaces were present: an Habc-Unc18 contact site and an Unc18-SNARE motif contact site. A constitutively open form of Unc18 bypasses the requirement for the Habc-Unc18 interface. These data suggest that the Habc domain of syntaxin is required for Unc18 to adopt an open conformation; open Unc18 then templates SNARE complex formation. Finally, we demonstrate that the SNARE and Unc18 machinery in the nematode C. elegans can be replaced by yeast proteins and still carry out synaptic transmission, pointing to the deep evolutionary conservation of these two interfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo A. Parra-Rivas
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0840, USA
| | - Mark T. Palfreyman
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0840, USA
| | - Thien N. Vu
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0840, USA
| | - Erik M. Jorgensen
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0840, USA
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14
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Shahoha M, Cohen R, Ben-Simon Y, Ashery U. cAMP-Dependent Synaptic Plasticity at the Hippocampal Mossy Fiber Terminal. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2022; 14:861215. [PMID: 35444523 PMCID: PMC9013808 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2022.861215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) is a crucial second messenger involved in both pre- and postsynaptic plasticity in many neuronal types across species. In the hippocampal mossy fiber (MF) synapse, cAMP mediates presynaptic long-term potentiation and depression. The main cAMP-dependent signaling pathway linked to MF synaptic plasticity acts via the activation of the protein kinase A (PKA) molecular cascade. Accordingly, various downstream putative synaptic PKA target proteins have been linked to cAMP-dependent MF synaptic plasticity, such as synapsin, rabphilin, synaptotagmin-12, RIM1a, tomosyn, and P/Q-type calcium channels. Regulating the expression of some of these proteins alters synaptic release probability and calcium channel clustering, resulting in short- and long-term changes to synaptic efficacy. However, despite decades of research, the exact molecular mechanisms by which cAMP and PKA exert their influences in MF terminals remain largely unknown. Here, we review current knowledge of different cAMP catalysts and potential downstream PKA-dependent molecular cascades, in addition to non-canonical cAMP-dependent but PKA-independent cascades, which might serve as alternative, compensatory or competing pathways to the canonical PKA cascade. Since several other central synapses share a similar form of presynaptic plasticity with the MF, a better description of the molecular mechanisms governing MF plasticity could be key to understanding the relationship between the transcriptional and computational levels across brain regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meishar Shahoha
- Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ronni Cohen
- Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yoav Ben-Simon
- Department of Neurophysiology, Vienna Medical University, Vienna, Austria
- *Correspondence: Yoav Ben-Simon,
| | - Uri Ashery
- Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Uri Ashery,
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15
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Sauvola CW, Akbergenova Y, Cunningham KL, Aponte-Santiago NA, Littleton JT. The decoy SNARE Tomosyn sets tonic versus phasic release properties and is required for homeostatic synaptic plasticity. eLife 2021; 10:e72841. [PMID: 34713802 PMCID: PMC8612732 DOI: 10.7554/elife.72841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptic vesicle (SV) release probability (Pr) is a key presynaptic determinant of synaptic strength established by cell-intrinsic properties and further refined by plasticity. To characterize mechanisms that generate Pr heterogeneity between distinct neuronal populations, we examined glutamatergic tonic (Ib) and phasic (Is) motoneurons in Drosophila with stereotyped differences in Pr and synaptic plasticity. We found the decoy soluble N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) Tomosyn is differentially expressed between these motoneuron subclasses and contributes to intrinsic differences in their synaptic output. Tomosyn expression enables tonic release in Ib motoneurons by reducing SNARE complex formation and suppressing Pr to generate decreased levels of SV fusion and enhanced resistance to synaptic fatigue. In contrast, phasic release dominates when Tomosyn expression is low, enabling high intrinsic Pr at Is terminals at the expense of sustained release and robust presynaptic potentiation. In addition, loss of Tomosyn disrupts the ability of tonic synapses to undergo presynaptic homeostatic potentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad W Sauvola
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The Picower Institute of Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
| | - Yulia Akbergenova
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The Picower Institute of Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
| | - Karen L Cunningham
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
| | | | - J Troy Littleton
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The Picower Institute of Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
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16
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Li L, Liu H, Krout M, Richmond JE, Wang Y, Bai J, Weeratunga S, Collins BM, Ventimiglia D, Yu Y, Xia J, Tang J, Liu J, Hu Z. A novel dual Ca2+ sensor system regulates Ca2+-dependent neurotransmitter release. J Cell Biol 2021; 220:211787. [PMID: 33570571 PMCID: PMC7883739 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202008121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Ca2+-dependent neurotransmitter release requires synaptotagmins as Ca2+ sensors to trigger synaptic vesicle (SV) exocytosis via binding of their tandem C2 domains—C2A and C2B—to Ca2+. We have previously demonstrated that SNT-1, a mouse synaptotagmin-1 (Syt1) homologue, functions as the fast Ca2+ sensor in Caenorhabditis elegans. Here, we report a new Ca2+ sensor, SNT-3, which triggers delayed Ca2+-dependent neurotransmitter release. snt-1;snt-3 double mutants abolish evoked synaptic transmission, demonstrating that C. elegans NMJs use a dual Ca2+ sensor system. SNT-3 possesses canonical aspartate residues in both C2 domains, but lacks an N-terminal transmembrane (TM) domain. Biochemical evidence demonstrates that SNT-3 binds both Ca2+ and the plasma membrane. Functional analysis shows that SNT-3 is activated when SNT-1 function is impaired, triggering SV release that is loosely coupled to Ca2+ entry. Compared with SNT-1, which is tethered to SVs, SNT-3 is not associated with SV. Eliminating the SV tethering of SNT-1 by removing the TM domain or the whole N terminus rescues fast release kinetics, demonstrating that cytoplasmic SNT-1 is still functional and triggers fast neurotransmitter release, but also exhibits decreased evoked amplitude and release probability. These results suggest that the fast and slow properties of SV release are determined by the intrinsically different C2 domains in SNT-1 and SNT-3, rather than their N-termini–mediated membrane tethering. Our findings therefore reveal a novel dual Ca2+ sensor system in C. elegans and provide significant insights into Ca2+-regulated exocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Li
- Queensland Brain Institute, Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Haowen Liu
- Queensland Brain Institute, Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Mia Krout
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Janet E Richmond
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Yu Wang
- Division of Basic Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
| | - Jihong Bai
- Division of Basic Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
| | - Saroja Weeratunga
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Brett M Collins
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Donovan Ventimiglia
- Lulu and Anthony Wang Laboratory of Neural Circuits and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY
| | - Yi Yu
- Queensland Brain Institute, Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jingyao Xia
- Queensland Brain Institute, Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jing Tang
- Queensland Brain Institute, Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jie Liu
- Neuroscience Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Zhitao Hu
- Queensland Brain Institute, Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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17
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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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18
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Silva M, Tran V, Marty A. Calcium-dependent docking of synaptic vesicles. Trends Neurosci 2021; 44:579-592. [PMID: 34049722 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The concentration of calcium ions in presynaptic terminals regulates transmitter release, but underlying mechanisms have remained unclear. Here we review recent studies that shed new light on this issue. Fast-freezing electron microscopy and total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy studies reveal complex calcium-dependent vesicle movements including docking on a millisecond time scale. Recordings from so-called 'simple synapses' indicate that calcium not only triggers exocytosis, but also modifies synaptic strength by controlling a final, rapid vesicle maturation step before release. Molecular studies identify several calcium-sensitive domains on Munc13 and on synaptotagmin-1 that are likely involved in bringing the vesicular and plasma membranes closer together in response to calcium elevation. Together, these results suggest that calcium-dependent vesicle docking occurs in a wide range of time domains and plays a crucial role in several phenomena including synaptic facilitation, post-tetanic potentiation, and neuromodulator-induced potentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Silva
- Université de Paris, SPPIN-Saints Pères Paris Institute for the Neurosciences, CNRS, F-75006 Paris, France
| | - Van Tran
- Université de Paris, SPPIN-Saints Pères Paris Institute for the Neurosciences, CNRS, F-75006 Paris, France
| | - Alain Marty
- Université de Paris, SPPIN-Saints Pères Paris Institute for the Neurosciences, CNRS, F-75006 Paris, France.
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19
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Synapsin Is Required for Dense Core Vesicle Capture and cAMP-Dependent Neuropeptide Release. J Neurosci 2021; 41:4187-4201. [PMID: 33820857 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2631-20.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Release of neuropeptides from dense core vesicles (DCVs) is essential for neuromodulation. Compared with the release of small neurotransmitters, much less is known about the mechanisms and proteins contributing to neuropeptide release. By optogenetics, behavioral analysis, electrophysiology, electron microscopy, and live imaging, we show that synapsin SNN-1 is required for cAMP-dependent neuropeptide release in Caenorhabditis elegans hermaphrodite cholinergic motor neurons. In synapsin mutants, behaviors induced by the photoactivated adenylyl cyclase bPAC, which we previously showed to depend on ACh and neuropeptides (Steuer Costa et al., 2017), are altered as in animals with reduced cAMP. Synapsin mutants have slight alterations in synaptic vesicle (SV) distribution; however, a defect in SV mobilization was apparent after channelrhodopsin-based photostimulation. DCVs were largely affected in snn-1 mutants: DCVs were ∼30% reduced in synaptic terminals, and their contents not released following bPAC stimulation. Imaging axonal DCV trafficking, also in genome-engineered mutants in the serine-9 protein kinase A phosphorylation site, showed that synapsin captures DCVs at synapses, making them available for release. SNN-1 colocalized with immobile, captured DCVs. In synapsin deletion mutants, DCVs were more mobile and less likely to be caught at release sites, and in nonphosphorylatable SNN-1B(S9A) mutants, DCVs traffic less and accumulate, likely by enhanced SNN-1 dependent tethering. Our work establishes synapsin as a key mediator of neuropeptide release.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Little is known about mechanisms that regulate how neuropeptide-containing dense core vesicles (DCVs) traffic along the axon, how neuropeptide release is orchestrated, and where it occurs. We found that one of the longest known synaptic proteins, required for the regulation of synaptic vesicles and their storage in nerve terminals, synapsin, is also essential for neuropeptide release. By electrophysiology, imaging, and electron microscopy in Caenorhabditis elegans, we show that synapsin regulates this process by tethering the DCVs to the cytoskeleton in axonal regions where neuropeptides are to be released. Without synapsin, DCVs cannot be captured at the release sites and, consequently, cannot fuse with the membrane, and neuropeptides are not released. We suggest that synapsin fulfills this role also in vertebrates, including humans.
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20
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Tien CW, Yu B, Huang M, Stepien KP, Sugita K, Xie X, Han L, Monnier PP, Zhen M, Rizo J, Gao S, Sugita S. Open syntaxin overcomes exocytosis defects of diverse mutants in C. elegans. Nat Commun 2020; 11:5516. [PMID: 33139696 PMCID: PMC7606450 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-19178-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Assembly of SNARE complexes that mediate neurotransmitter release requires opening of a ‘closed’ conformation of UNC-64/syntaxin. Rescue of unc-13/Munc13 mutant phenotypes by overexpressed open UNC-64/syntaxin suggested a specific function of UNC-13/Munc13 in opening UNC-64/ syntaxin. Here, we revisit the effects of open unc-64/syntaxin by generating knockin (KI) worms. The KI animals exhibit enhanced spontaneous and evoked exocytosis compared to WT animals. Unexpectedly, the open syntaxin KI partially suppresses exocytosis defects of various mutants, including snt-1/synaptotagmin, unc-2/P/Q/N-type Ca2+ channel alpha-subunit and unc-31/CAPS, in addition to unc-13/Munc13 and unc-10/RIM, and enhanced exocytosis in tom-1/Tomosyn mutants. However, open syntaxin aggravates the defects of unc-18/Munc18 mutants. Correspondingly, open syntaxin partially bypasses the requirement of Munc13 but not Munc18 for liposome fusion. Our results show that facilitating opening of syntaxin enhances exocytosis in a wide range of genetic backgrounds, and may provide a general means to enhance synaptic transmission in normal and disease states. Opening of the UNC-64/syntaxin closed conformation by UNC-13/Munc13 to form the neuronal SNARE complex is critical for neurotransmitter release. Here the authors show that facilitating the opening of syntaxin enhances exocytosis not only in unc-13 nulls as well as in diverse C. elegans mutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Wei Tien
- Division of Fundamental Neurobiology, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5T 2S8.,Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 1A8
| | - Bin Yu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Mengjia Huang
- Division of Fundamental Neurobiology, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5T 2S8.,Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 1A8
| | - Karolina P Stepien
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Kyoko Sugita
- Division of Genetics and Development, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5T 2S8
| | - Xiaoyu Xie
- Division of Fundamental Neurobiology, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5T 2S8.,Department of Anesthesiology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Liping Han
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, Dalian Municipal Friendship Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Philippe P Monnier
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 1A8.,Division of Genetics and Development, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5T 2S8.,Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 1A8
| | - Mei Zhen
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 1A8.,Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5G 1X5.,Faculty of Medicine, Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 1A8
| | - Josep Rizo
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA. .,Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA. .,Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.
| | - Shangbang Gao
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China.
| | - Shuzo Sugita
- Division of Fundamental Neurobiology, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5T 2S8. .,Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 1A8.
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21
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Podraza-Farhanieh A, Natarajan B, Raj D, Kao G, Naredi P. ENPL-1, the Caenorhabditis elegans homolog of GRP94, promotes insulin secretion via regulation of proinsulin processing and maturation. Development 2020; 147:dev190082. [PMID: 33037039 PMCID: PMC10666919 DOI: 10.1242/dev.190082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Insulin/IGF signaling in Caenorhabditis elegans is crucial for proper development of the dauer larva and growth control. Mutants disturbing insulin processing, secretion and downstream signaling perturb this process and have helped identify genes that affect progression of type 2 diabetes. Insulin maturation is required for its proper secretion by pancreatic β cells. The role of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) chaperones in insulin processing and secretion needs further study. We show that the C. elegans ER chaperone ENPL-1/GRP94 (HSP90B1), acts in dauer development by promoting insulin secretion and signaling. Processing of a proinsulin likely involves binding between the two proteins via a specific domain. We show that, in enpl-1 mutants, an unprocessed insulin exits the ER lumen and is found in dense core vesicles, but is not secreted. The high ER stress in enpl-1 mutants does not cause the secretion defect. Importantly, increased ENPL-1 levels result in increased secretion. Taken together, our work indicates that ENPL-1 operates at the level of insulin availability and is an essential modulator of insulin processing and secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Podraza-Farhanieh
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, SE413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Dorota Raj
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, SE413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Gautam Kao
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, SE413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Peter Naredi
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, SE413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, SE413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
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22
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Melland H, Carr EM, Gordon SL. Disorders of synaptic vesicle fusion machinery. J Neurochem 2020; 157:130-164. [PMID: 32916768 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The revolution in genetic technology has ushered in a new age for our understanding of the underlying causes of neurodevelopmental, neuromuscular and neurodegenerative disorders, revealing that the presynaptic machinery governing synaptic vesicle fusion is compromised in many of these neurological disorders. This builds upon decades of research showing that disturbance to neurotransmitter release via toxins can cause acute neurological dysfunction. In this review, we focus on disorders of synaptic vesicle fusion caused either by toxic insult to the presynapse or alterations to genes encoding the key proteins that control and regulate fusion: the SNARE proteins (synaptobrevin, syntaxin-1 and SNAP-25), Munc18, Munc13, synaptotagmin, complexin, CSPα, α-synuclein, PRRT2 and tomosyn. We discuss the roles of these proteins and the cellular and molecular mechanisms underpinning neurological deficits in these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Melland
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne Dementia Research Centre, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Elysa M Carr
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne Dementia Research Centre, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Sarah L Gordon
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne Dementia Research Centre, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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23
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Li L, Liu H, Hall Q, Wang W, Yu Y, Kaplan JM, Hu Z. A Hyperactive Form of unc-13 Enhances Ca 2+ Sensitivity and Synaptic Vesicle Release Probability in C. elegans. Cell Rep 2020; 28:2979-2995.e4. [PMID: 31509756 PMCID: PMC6779330 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2018] [Revised: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Munc13 proteins play several roles in regulating shortterm synaptic plasticity. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unclear. Here we report that C. elegans UNC-13L, a Munc13-1 ortholog, has three domains that inhibit synaptic vesicle (SV) exocytosis. These include the X (sequence between C2A and C1), C1, and C2B domains. Deleting all three inhibitory domains produces a hyperactive UNC-13 (sUNC-13) that exhibits dramatically increased neurotransmitter release, Ca2+ sensitivity of release, and release probability. The vesicular pool in unc-13 mutants rescued by sUNC-13 exhibits a faster synaptic recovery and replenishment rate, demonstrating an important role of sUNC-13 in regulating synaptic plasticity. Analysis of double mutants suggests that sUNC-13 enhances tonic release by increasing the open probability of UNC-64/syntaxin-1A, whereas its effects on evoked release appear to be mediated by additional functions, presumably by further regulating the activity of the assembled soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor activating protein receptor (SNARE) complex. Li et al. identify three domains in UNC-13L that inhibit neurotransmitter release. Removal of the three inhibitory domains produces a hyperactive UNC-13 that dramatically increases Ca2+ sensitivity and release probability of vesicle exocytosis by opening syntaxin in a highly efficient manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Li
- Queensland Brain Institute, Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research (CJCADR), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Haowen Liu
- Queensland Brain Institute, Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research (CJCADR), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Qi Hall
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Wei Wang
- Queensland Brain Institute, Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research (CJCADR), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Yi Yu
- Queensland Brain Institute, Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research (CJCADR), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Joshua M Kaplan
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Zhitao Hu
- Queensland Brain Institute, Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research (CJCADR), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
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24
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Ching TT, Chen YC, Li G, Liu J, Xu XZS, Hsu AL. Short-term enhancement of motor neuron synaptic exocytosis during early aging extends lifespan in Caenorhabditis elegans. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2020; 245:1552-1559. [PMID: 32854519 DOI: 10.1177/1535370220950639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPACT STATEMENT The functional decline of motor activity is a common feature in almost all aging animals that leads to frailty, loss of independence, injury, and even death in the elderly population. Thus, understanding the molecular mechanism that drives the initial stage of this functional decline and developing strategies to increase human healthspan and even lifespan by targeting this process would be of great interests to the field. In this study, we found that by precisely targeting the motor neurons to potentiate its synaptic releases either genetically or pharmacologically, we can not only delay the functional aging at NMJs but also slow the rate of aging at the organismal level. Most importantly, we have demonstrated that a critical window of time, that is the early stage of NMJs functional decline, is required for the beneficial effects. A short-term treatment within this time period is sufficient to extend the animals' lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsui-Ting Ching
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Chieh Chen
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Guang Li
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,International Research Center for Sensory Biology and Technology of MOST, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of MOE, and College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Jianfeng Liu
- International Research Center for Sensory Biology and Technology of MOST, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of MOE, and College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - X Z Shawn Xu
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Ao-Lin Hsu
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Geriatric and Palliative Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,Research Center for Healthy Aging and Institute of New Drug Development, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan
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25
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Magdziarek M, Bolembach AA, Stepien KP, Quade B, Liu X, Rizo J. Re-examining how Munc13-1 facilitates opening of syntaxin-1. Protein Sci 2020; 29:1440-1458. [PMID: 32086964 DOI: 10.1002/pro.3844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Munc13-1 is crucial for neurotransmitter release and, together with Munc18-1, orchestrates assembly of the neuronal SNARE complex formed by syntaxin-1, SNAP-25, and synaptobrevin. Assembly starts with syntaxin-1 folded into a self-inhibited closed conformation that binds to Munc18-1. Munc13-1 is believed to catalyze the opening of syntaxin-1 to facilitate SNARE complex formation. However, different types of Munc13-1-syntaxin-1 interactions have been reported to underlie this activity, and the critical nature of Munc13-1 for release may arise because of its key role in bridging the vesicle and plasma membranes. To shed light into the mechanism of action of Munc13-1, we have used NMR spectroscopy, SNARE complex assembly experiments, and liposome fusion assays. We show that point mutations in a linker region of syntaxin-1 that forms intrinsic part of the closed conformation strongly impair stimulation of SNARE complex assembly and liposome fusion mediated by Munc13-1 fragments, even though binding of this linker region to Munc13-1 is barely detectable. Conversely, the syntaxin-1 SNARE motif clearly binds to Munc13-1, but a mutation that disrupts this interaction does not affect SNARE complex assembly or liposome fusion. We also show that Munc13-1 cannot be replaced by an artificial tethering factor to mediate liposome fusion. Overall, these results emphasize how very weak interactions can play fundamental roles in promoting conformational transitions and strongly support a model whereby the critical nature of Munc13-1 for neurotransmitter release arises not only from its ability to bridge two membranes but also from an active role in opening syntaxin-1 via interactions with the linker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Magdziarek
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Agnieszka A Bolembach
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Karolina P Stepien
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Bradley Quade
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Xiaoxia Liu
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Pathophysiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Josep Rizo
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
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26
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Hendi A, Kurashina M, Mizumoto K. Intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms of synapse formation and specificity in C. elegans. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:2719-2738. [PMID: 31037336 PMCID: PMC11105629 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03109-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Precise neuronal wiring is critical for the function of the nervous system and is ultimately determined at the level of individual synapses. Neurons integrate various intrinsic and extrinsic cues to form synapses onto their correct targets in a stereotyped manner. In the past decades, the nervous system of nematode (Caenorhabditis elegans) has provided the genetic platform to reveal the genetic and molecular mechanisms of synapse formation and specificity. In this review, we will summarize the recent discoveries in synapse formation and specificity in C. elegans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ardalan Hendi
- Department of Zoology, The University of British Columbia, 2406-2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Mizuki Kurashina
- Department of Zoology, The University of British Columbia, 2406-2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Kota Mizumoto
- Department of Zoology, The University of British Columbia, 2406-2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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27
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Unc13: a multifunctional synaptic marvel. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2019; 57:17-25. [PMID: 30690332 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2018.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Nervous systems are built on synaptic connections, and our understanding of these complex compartments has deepened over the past quarter century as the diverse fields of genetics, molecular biology, physiology, and biochemistry each made significant in-roads into synaptic function. On the presynaptic side, an evolutionarily conserved core fusion apparatus constructed from a handful of proteins has emerged, with Unc13 serving as a hub that coordinates nearly every aspect of synaptic transmission. This review briefly highlights recent studies on diverse aspects of Unc13 function including roles in SNARE assembly and quality control, release site building, calcium channel proximity, and short-term synaptic plasticity.
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28
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Abstract
Modulation of neurotransmitter exocytosis by activated Gi/o coupled G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) is a universal regulatory mechanism used both to avoid overstimulation and to influence circuitry. One of the known modulation mechanisms is the interaction between Gβγ and the soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNAREs). There are 5 Gβ and 12 Gγ subunits, but specific Gβγs activated by a given GPCR and the specificity to effectors, such as SNARE, in vivo are not known. Although less studied, Gβγ binding to the exocytic fusion machinery (i.e. SNARE) provides a more direct regulatory mechanism for neurotransmitter release. Here, we review some recent insights in the architecture of the synaptic terminal, modulation of synaptic transmission, and implications of G protein modulation of synaptic transmission in diseases. Numerous presynaptic proteins are involved in the architecture of synaptic terminals, particularly the active zone, and their importance in the regulation of exocytosis is still not completely understood. Further understanding of the Gβγ-SNARE interaction and the architecture and mechanisms of exocytosis may lead to the discovery of novel therapeutic targets to help patients with various disorders such as hypertension, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and acute/chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Young Yim
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville 37232-6600, TN, United States
| | - Zack Zurawski
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville 37232-6600, TN, United States
| | - Heidi Hamm
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville 37232-6600, TN, United States.
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29
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Blazie SM, Jin Y. Pharming for Genes in Neurotransmission: Combining Chemical and Genetic Approaches in Caenorhabditis elegans. ACS Chem Neurosci 2018; 9:1963-1974. [PMID: 29432681 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.7b00509] [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] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Synaptic transmission is central to nervous system function. Chemical and genetic screens are valuable approaches to probe synaptic mechanisms in living animals. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is a prime system to apply these methods to discover genes and dissect the cellular pathways underlying neurotransmission. Here, we review key approaches to understand neurotransmission and the action of psychiatric drugs in C. elegans. We start with early studies on cholinergic excitatory signaling at the neuromuscular junction, and move into mechanisms mediated by biogenic amines. Finally, we discuss emerging work toward understanding the mechanisms driving synaptic plasticity with a focus on regulation of protein translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen M. Blazie
- Neurobiology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Yishi Jin
- Neurobiology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
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30
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Somasundaram A, Taraska JW. Local protein dynamics during microvesicle exocytosis in neuroendocrine cells. Mol Biol Cell 2018; 29:1891-1903. [PMID: 29874123 PMCID: PMC6085826 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e17-12-0716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium-triggered exocytosis is key to many physiological processes, including neurotransmitter and hormone release by neurons and endocrine cells. Dozens of proteins regulate exocytosis, yet the temporal and spatial dynamics of these factors during vesicle fusion remain unclear. Here we use total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy to visualize local protein dynamics at single sites of exocytosis of small synaptic-like microvesicles in live cultured neuroendocrine PC12 cells. We employ two-color imaging to simultaneously observe membrane fusion (using vesicular acetylcholine ACh transporter tagged to pHluorin) and the dynamics of associated proteins at the moments surrounding exocytosis. Our experiments show that many proteins, including the SNAREs syntaxin1 and VAMP2, the SNARE modulator tomosyn, and Rab proteins, are preclustered at fusion sites and rapidly lost at fusion. The ATPase N-ethylmaleimide–sensitive factor is locally recruited at fusion. Interestingly, the endocytic Bin-Amphiphysin-Rvs domain–containing proteins amphiphysin1, syndapin2, and endophilins are dynamically recruited to fusion sites and slow the loss of vesicle membrane-bound cargo from fusion sites. A similar effect on vesicle membrane protein dynamics was seen with the overexpression of the GTPases dynamin1 and dynamin2. These results suggest that proteins involved in classical clathrin-mediated endocytosis can regulate exocytosis of synaptic-like microvesicles. Our findings provide insights into the dynamics, assembly, and mechanistic roles of many key factors of exocytosis and endocytosis at single sites of microvesicle fusion in live cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agila Somasundaram
- Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Justin W Taraska
- Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
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31
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Calahorro F, Izquierdo PG. The presynaptic machinery at the synapse of C. elegans. INVERTEBRATE NEUROSCIENCE : IN 2018; 18:4. [PMID: 29532181 PMCID: PMC5851683 DOI: 10.1007/s10158-018-0207-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Synapses are specialized contact sites that mediate information flow between neurons and their targets. Important physical interactions across the synapse are mediated by synaptic adhesion molecules. These adhesions regulate formation of synapses during development and play a role during mature synaptic function. Importantly, genes regulating synaptogenesis and axon regeneration are conserved across the animal phyla. Genetic screens in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans have identified a number of molecules required for synapse patterning and assembly. C. elegans is able to survive even with its neuronal function severely compromised. This is in comparison with Drosophila and mice where increased complexity makes them less tolerant to impaired function. Although this fact may reflect differences in the function of the homologous proteins in the synapses between these organisms, the most likely interpretation is that many of these components are equally important, but not absolutely essential, for synaptic transmission to support the relatively undemanding life style of laboratory maintained C. elegans. Here, we review research on the major group of synaptic proteins, involved in the presynaptic machinery in C. elegans, showing a strong conservation between higher organisms and highlight how C. elegans can be used as an informative tool for dissecting synaptic components, based on a simple nervous system organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Calahorro
- Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Life Sciences Building 85, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK.
| | - Patricia G Izquierdo
- Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Life Sciences Building 85, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK
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32
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Systematic Functional Characterization of Human 21st Chromosome Orthologs in Caenorhabditis elegans. G3-GENES GENOMES GENETICS 2018; 8:967-979. [PMID: 29367452 PMCID: PMC5844316 DOI: 10.1534/g3.118.200019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Individuals with Down syndrome have neurological and muscle impairments due to an additional copy of the human 21st chromosome (HSA21). Only a few of ∼200 HSA21 genes encoding proteins have been linked to specific Down syndrome phenotypes, while the remainder are understudied. To identify poorly characterized HSA21 genes required for nervous system function, we studied behavioral phenotypes caused by loss-of-function mutations in conserved HSA21 orthologs in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. We identified 10 HSA21 orthologs that are required for neuromuscular behaviors: cle-1 (COL18A1), cysl-2 (CBS), dnsn-1 (DONSON), eva-1 (EVA1C), mtq-2 (N6ATM1), ncam-1 (NCAM2), pad-2 (POFUT2), pdxk-1 (PDXK), rnt-1 (RUNX1), and unc-26 (SYNJ1). We also found that three of these genes are required for normal release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This includes a known synaptic gene unc-26 (SYNJ1), as well as uncharacterized genes pdxk-1 (PDXK) and mtq-2 (N6ATM1). As the first systematic functional analysis of HSA21 orthologs, this study may serve as a platform to understand genes that underlie phenotypes associated with Down syndrome.
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33
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Wentzel C, Delvendahl I, Sydlik S, Georgiev O, Müller M. Dysbindin links presynaptic proteasome function to homeostatic recruitment of low release probability vesicles. Nat Commun 2018; 9:267. [PMID: 29348419 PMCID: PMC5773495 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-02494-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Here we explore the relationship between presynaptic homeostatic plasticity and proteasome function at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction. First, we demonstrate that the induction of homeostatic plasticity is blocked after presynaptic proteasome perturbation. Proteasome inhibition potentiates release under baseline conditions but not during homeostatic plasticity, suggesting that proteasomal degradation and homeostatic plasticity modulate a common pool of vesicles. The vesicles that are regulated by proteasome function and recruited during homeostatic plasticity are highly EGTA sensitive, implying looser Ca2+ influx-release coupling. Similar to homeostatic plasticity, proteasome perturbation enhances presynaptic Ca2+ influx, readily-releasable vesicle pool size, and does not potentiate release after loss of specific homeostatic plasticity genes, including the schizophrenia-susceptibility gene dysbindin. Finally, we provide genetic evidence that Dysbindin levels regulate the access to EGTA-sensitive vesicles. Together, our data suggest that presynaptic protein degradation opposes the release of low-release probability vesicles that are potentiated during homeostatic plasticity and whose access is controlled by dysbindin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinna Wentzel
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Igor Delvendahl
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sebastian Sydlik
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.,Zurich Ph.D. Program in Molecular Life Sciences, Winterthurerstrasse 190, Zurich, 8057, Switzerland
| | - Oleg Georgiev
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Müller
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland. .,Zurich Ph.D. Program in Molecular Life Sciences, Winterthurerstrasse 190, Zurich, 8057, Switzerland. .,Neuroscience Center Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, Zurich, 8057, Switzerland.
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34
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Saldate JJ, Shiau J, Cazares VA, Stuenkel EL. The ubiquitin-proteasome system functionally links neuronal Tomosyn-1 to dendritic morphology. J Biol Chem 2017; 293:2232-2246. [PMID: 29269412 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m117.815514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Revised: 12/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Altering the expression of Tomosyn-1 (Tomo-1), a soluble, R-SNARE domain-containing protein, significantly affects behavior in mice, Drosophila, and Caenorhabditis elegans Yet, the mechanisms that modulate Tomo-1 expression and its regulatory activity remain poorly defined. Here, we found that Tomo-1 expression levels influence postsynaptic spine density. Tomo-1 overexpression increased dendritic spine density, whereas Tomo-1 knockdown (KD) decreased spine density. These findings identified a novel action of Tomo-1 on dendritic spines, which is unique because it occurs independently of Tomo-1's C-terminal R-SNARE domain. We also demonstrated that the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), which is known to influence synaptic strength, dynamically regulates Tomo-1 protein levels. Immunoprecipitated and affinity-purified Tomo-1 from cultured rat hippocampal neurons was ubiquitinated, and the levels of ubiquitinated Tomo-1 dramatically increased upon pharmacological proteasome blockade. Moreover, Tomo-1 ubiquitination appeared to be mediated through an interaction with the E3 ubiquitin ligase HRD1, as immunoprecipitation of Tomo-1 from neurons co-precipitated HRD1, and this interaction increases upon proteasome inhibition. Further, in vitro reactions indicated direct, HRD1 concentration-dependent Tomo-1 ubiquitination. We also noted that the UPS regulates both Tomo-1 expression and functional output, as HRD1 KD in hippocampal neurons increased Tomo-1 protein level and dendritic spine density. Notably, the effect of HRD1 KD on spine density was mitigated by additional KD of Tomo-1, indicating a direct HRD1/Tomo-1 effector relationship. In summary, our results indicate that the UPS is likely to participate in tuning synaptic efficacy and spine dynamics by precise regulation of neuronal Tomo-1 levels.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jason Shiau
- the Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5624
| | - Victor A Cazares
- the Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5624
| | - Edward L Stuenkel
- From the Neuroscience Graduate Program and .,the Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5624
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35
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Michelassi F, Liu H, Hu Z, Dittman JS. A C1-C2 Module in Munc13 Inhibits Calcium-Dependent Neurotransmitter Release. Neuron 2017; 95:577-590.e5. [PMID: 28772122 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2017.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2016] [Revised: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Almost all known forms of fast chemical synaptic transmission require the synaptic hub protein Munc13. This essential protein has also been implicated in mediating several forms of use-dependent plasticity, but the mechanisms by which it controls vesicle fusion and plasticity are not well understood. Using the C. elegans Munc13 ortholog UNC-13, we show that deletion of the C2B domain, the most highly conserved domain of Munc13, enhances calcium-dependent exocytosis downstream of vesicle priming, revealing a novel autoinhibitory role for the C2B. Furthermore, C2B inhibition is relieved by calcium binding to C2B, while the neighboring C1 domain acts together with C2B to stabilize the autoinhibited state. Selective disruption of Munc13 autoinhibition profoundly impacts nervous system function in vivo. Thus, C1-C2B exerts a basal inhibition on Munc13 in the primed state, permitting calcium- and lipid-dependent control of C1-C2B to modulate synaptic strength.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Michelassi
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Haowen Liu
- Queensland Brain Institute, Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research (CJCADR), University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4072 QLD, Australia
| | - Zhitao Hu
- Queensland Brain Institute, Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research (CJCADR), University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4072 QLD, Australia
| | - Jeremy S Dittman
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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36
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UNC-18 and Tomosyn Antagonistically Control Synaptic Vesicle Priming Downstream of UNC-13 in Caenorhabditis elegans. J Neurosci 2017; 37:8797-8815. [PMID: 28821673 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0338-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2017] [Revised: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Munc18-1/UNC-18 is believed to prime SNARE-mediated membrane fusion, yet the underlying mechanisms remain enigmatic. Here, we examine how potential gain-of-function mutations of Munc18-1/UNC-18 affect locomotory behavior and synaptic transmission, and how Munc18-1-mediated priming is related to Munc13-1/UNC-13 and Tomosyn/TOM-1, positive and negative SNARE regulators, respectively. We show that a Munc18-1(P335A)/UNC-18(P334A) mutation leads to significantly increased locomotory activity and acetylcholine release in Caenorhabditis elegans, as well as enhanced synaptic neurotransmission in cultured mammalian neurons. Importantly, similar to tom-1 null mutants, unc-18(P334A) mutants partially bypass the requirement of UNC-13. Moreover, unc-18(P334A) and tom-1 null mutations confer a strong synergy in suppressing the phenotypes of unc-13 mutants. Through biochemical experiments, we demonstrate that Munc18-1(P335A) exhibits enhanced activity in SNARE complex formation as well as in binding to the preformed SNARE complex, and partially bypasses the Munc13-1 requirement in liposome fusion assays. Our results indicate that Munc18-1/UNC-18 primes vesicle fusion downstream of Munc13-1/UNC-13 by templating SNARE complex assembly and acts antagonistically with Tomosyn/TOM-1.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT At presynaptic sites, SNARE-mediated membrane fusion is tightly regulated by several key proteins including Munc18/UNC-18, Munc13/UNC-13, and Tomosyn/TOM-1. However, how these proteins interact with each other to achieve the precise regulation of neurotransmitter release remains largely unclear. Using Caenorhabditis elegans as an in vivo model, we found that a gain-of-function mutant of UNC-18 increases locomotory activity and synaptic acetylcholine release, that it partially bypasses the requirement of UNC-13 for release, and that this bypass is synergistically augmented by the lack of TOM-1. We also elucidated the biochemical basis for the gain-of-function caused by this mutation. Thus, our study provides novel mechanistic insights into how Munc18/UNC-18 primes synaptic vesicle release and how this protein interacts functionally with Munc13/UNC-13 and Tomosyn/TOM-1.
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37
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Geerts CJ, Mancini R, Chen N, Koopmans FTW, Li KW, Smit AB, van Weering JRT, Verhage M, Groffen AJA. Tomosyn associates with secretory vesicles in neurons through its N- and C-terminal domains. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0180912. [PMID: 28746398 PMCID: PMC5529015 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0180912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/22/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The secretory pathway in neurons requires efficient targeting of cargos and regulatory proteins to their release sites. Tomosyn contributes to synapse function by regulating synaptic vesicle (SV) and dense-core vesicle (DCV) secretion. While there is large support for the presynaptic accumulation of tomosyn in fixed preparations, alternative subcellular locations have been suggested. Here we studied the dynamic distribution of tomosyn-1 (Stxbp5) and tomosyn-2 (Stxbp5l) in mouse hippocampal neurons and observed a mixed diffuse and punctate localization pattern of both isoforms. Tomosyn-1 accumulations were present in axons and dendrites. As expected, tomosyn-1 was expressed in about 75% of the presynaptic terminals. Interestingly, also bidirectional moving tomosyn-1 and -2 puncta were observed. Despite the lack of a membrane anchor these puncta co-migrated with synapsin and neuropeptide Y, markers for respectively SVs and DCVs. Genetic blockade of two known tomosyn interactions with synaptotagmin-1 and its cognate SNAREs did not abolish its vesicular co-migration, suggesting an interplay of protein interactions mediated by the WD40 and SNARE domains. We hypothesize that the vesicle-binding properties of tomosyns may control the delivery, pan-synaptic sharing and secretion of neuronal signaling molecules, exceeding its canonical role at the plasma membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia J. Geerts
- Department of Functional Genomics, Centre for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roberta Mancini
- Department of Functional Genomics, Centre for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ning Chen
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Centre for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frank T. W. Koopmans
- Department of Functional Genomics, Centre for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ka Wan Li
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Centre for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - August B. Smit
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Centre for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Matthijs Verhage
- Department of Functional Genomics, Centre for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Genetics, VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander J. A. Groffen
- Department of Functional Genomics, Centre for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Genetics, VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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38
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Dynamic Partitioning of Synaptic Vesicle Pools by the SNARE-Binding Protein Tomosyn. J Neurosci 2017; 36:11208-11222. [PMID: 27807164 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1297-16.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural networks engaged in high-frequency activity rely on sustained synaptic vesicle recycling and coordinated recruitment from functionally distinct synaptic vesicle (SV) pools. However, the molecular pathways matching neural activity to SV dynamics and release requirements remain unclear. Here we identify unique roles of SNARE-binding Tomosyn1 (Tomo1) proteins as activity-dependent substrates that regulate dynamics of SV pool partitioning at rat hippocampal synapses. Our analysis is based on monitoring changes in distinct functionally defined SV pools via V-Glut1-pHluorin fluorescence in cultured hippocampal neurons in response to alterations in presynaptic protein expression. Specifically, we find knockdown of Tomo1 facilitates release efficacy from the Readily Releasable Pool (RRP), and regulates SV distribution to the Total Recycling Pool (TRP), which is matched by a decrease in the SV Resting Pool. Notably, these effects were reversed by Tomo1 rescue and overexpression. Further, we identify that these actions of Tomo1 are regulated via activity-dependent phosphorylation by cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5). Assessment of molecular interactions that may contribute to these actions identified Tomo1 interaction with the GTP-bound state of Rab3A, an SV GTPase involved in SV targeting and presynaptic membrane tethering. In addition, Tomo1 via Rab3A-GTP was also observed to interact with Synapsin 1a/b cytoskeletal interacting proteins. Finally, our data indicate that Tomo1 regulation of SV pool sizes serves to adapt presynaptic neurotransmitter release to chronic silencing of network activity. Overall, the results establish Tomo1 proteins as central mediators in neural activity-dependent changes in SV distribution among SV pools. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Although information transfer at central synapses via sustained high-frequency neural activity requires coordinated synaptic vesicle (SV) recycling, the mechanism(s) by which synapses sense and dynamically modify SV pools to match network demands remains poorly defined. To advance understanding, we quantified SV pool sizes and their sensitivity to neural activity while altering Tomo1 expression, a putative regulator of the presynaptic Readily Releasable Pool. Remarkably, we find Tomo1 actions to extend beyond the Readily Releasable Pool to mediate the Total Recycling Pool and SV Resting Pool distribution, and this action is sensitive to neural activity through Cdk5 phosphorylation of Tomo1. Moreover, Tomo1 appears to exert these actions through interaction with Rab3A-GTP and synapsin proteins. Together, our results argue that Tomo1 is a central mediator of SV availability for neurotransmission.
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Pym E, Sasidharan N, Thompson-Peer KL, Simon DJ, Anselmo A, Sadreyev R, Hall Q, Nurrish S, Kaplan JM. Shank is a dose-dependent regulator of Ca v1 calcium current and CREB target expression. eLife 2017; 6. [PMID: 28477407 PMCID: PMC5432211 DOI: 10.7554/elife.18931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2016] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Shank is a post-synaptic scaffolding protein that has many binding partners. Shank mutations and copy number variations (CNVs) are linked to several psychiatric disorders, and to synaptic and behavioral defects in mice. It is not known which Shank binding partners are responsible for these defects. Here we show that the C. elegans SHN-1/Shank binds L-type calcium channels and that increased and decreased shn-1 gene dosage alter L-channel current and activity-induced expression of a CRH-1/CREB transcriptional target (gem-4 Copine), which parallels the effects of human Shank copy number variations (CNVs) on Autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia. These results suggest that an important function of Shank proteins is to regulate L-channel current and activity induced gene expression. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.18931.001
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Pym
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Nikhil Sasidharan
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Katherine L Thompson-Peer
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - David J Simon
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Anthony Anselmo
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Ruslan Sadreyev
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Qi Hall
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Stephen Nurrish
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Joshua M Kaplan
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
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40
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Miller-Fleming TW, Petersen SC, Manning L, Matthewman C, Gornet M, Beers A, Hori S, Mitani S, Bianchi L, Richmond J, Miller DM. The DEG/ENaC cation channel protein UNC-8 drives activity-dependent synapse removal in remodeling GABAergic neurons. eLife 2016; 5. [PMID: 27403890 PMCID: PMC4980115 DOI: 10.7554/elife.14599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic programming and neural activity drive synaptic remodeling in developing neural circuits, but the molecular components that link these pathways are poorly understood. Here we show that the C. elegans Degenerin/Epithelial Sodium Channel (DEG/ENaC) protein, UNC-8, is transcriptionally controlled to function as a trigger in an activity-dependent mechanism that removes synapses in remodeling GABAergic neurons. UNC-8 cation channel activity promotes disassembly of presynaptic domains in DD type GABA neurons, but not in VD class GABA neurons where unc-8 expression is blocked by the COUP/TF transcription factor, UNC-55. We propose that the depolarizing effect of UNC-8-dependent sodium import elevates intracellular calcium in a positive feedback loop involving the voltage-gated calcium channel UNC-2 and the calcium-activated phosphatase TAX-6/calcineurin to initiate a caspase-dependent mechanism that disassembles the presynaptic apparatus. Thus, UNC-8 serves as a link between genetic and activity-dependent pathways that function together to promote the elimination of GABA synapses in remodeling neurons. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.14599.001 The brain contains billions of nerve cells, or neurons, that communicate with one another through connections called synapses. As the brain develops, these circuits are extensively modified as new synapses are created and others are removed. Neurological disorders may emerge if these processes are not regulated correctly. Identifying the biological pathways that control the addition and removal of synapses could therefore provide new insights into how to treat human brain diseases. To communicate across a synapse, the signaling neuron releases chemicals called neurotransmitters that alter the activity of the receiving neuron. Some neurotransmitters, such as GABA, inhibit the activity of the receiving neuron. The activity of a neuron – and hence how often it releases neurotransmitters – depends on different ions moving into and out of the neuron through proteins called ion channels that are embedded in the cell membrane. For example, the movement of calcium ions into the neuron can trigger the release of neurotransmitters. The roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans is often used as a model organism to study how the brain develops. During development, the worm nervous system eliminates synapses that release GABA and reassembles them at new locations. However, the nervous system does not eliminate these synapses at random. Miller-Fleming, Petersen et al. now show that a C. elegans protein called UNC-8 is responsible for this effect. UNC-8 forms part of an ion channel that allows sodium ions to enter the neuron and is selectively produced in GABA neurons that are destined for remodeling. Miller-Fleming, Petersen et al. found that inside GABA-releasing neurons, calcium ions stimulate an enzyme called calcineurin that may in turn activate UNC-8. Sodium ions then enter the neuron through UNC-8 channels. This boosts the activity of the calcium ion channels, which further increases how many calcium ions enter the cell. Ultimately, the amount of calcium inside the neuron becomes high enough to activate an additional pathway that eliminates the synapse. This downstream pathway involves components of a cell-killing (or “apoptotic”) mechanism that is repurposed in this case to remove the GABA release apparatus at the synapse. Other proteins are likely to help UNC-8 sense the activity of neurons and destroy synapses in response. Further work is required to investigate these additional components and to determine how they work with UNC-8 to remove synapses in the nervous system during development. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.14599.002
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah C Petersen
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, United States
| | - Laura Manning
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, United States
| | - Cristina Matthewman
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Miami, Miami, United States
| | - Megan Gornet
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, United States
| | - Allison Beers
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, United States
| | - Sayaka Hori
- Department of Physiology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shohei Mitani
- Department of Physiology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Laura Bianchi
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Miami, Miami, United States
| | - Janet Richmond
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, United States
| | - David M Miller
- Neuroscience Program, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, United States.,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, United States
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41
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Wragg RT, Gouzer G, Bai J, Arianna G, Ryan TA, Dittman JS. Synaptic activity regulates the abundance and binding of complexin. Biophys J 2016; 108:1318-1329. [PMID: 25809246 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2014.12.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2014] [Revised: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 12/29/2014] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Nervous system function relies on precise chemical communication between neurons at specialized junctions known as synapses. Complexin (CPX) is one of a small number of cytoplasmic proteins that are indispensable in controlling neurotransmitter release through SNARE and synaptic vesicle interactions. However, the mechanisms that recruit and stabilize CPX are poorly understood. The mobility of CPX tagged with photoactivatable green fluorescent protein (pGFP) was quantified in vivo using Caenorhabditis elegans. Although pGFP escaped the synapse within seconds, CPX-pGFP displayed both fast and slow decay components, requiring minutes for complete exchange of the synaptic pool. The longer synaptic residence time of CPX arose from both synaptic vesicle and SNARE interactions, and surprisingly, CPX mobility depended on synaptic activity. Moreover, mouse CPX-GFP reversibly dispersed out of hippocampal presynaptic terminals during stimulation, and blockade of vesicle fusion prevented CPX dispersion. Hence, synaptic CPX can rapidly redistribute and this exchange is influenced by neuronal activity, potentially contributing to use-dependent plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel T Wragg
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Géraldine Gouzer
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Jihong Bai
- Division of Basic Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Gianluca Arianna
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Timothy A Ryan
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Jeremy S Dittman
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York.
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42
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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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43
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A Combined Optogenetic-Knockdown Strategy Reveals a Major Role of Tomosyn in Mossy Fiber Synaptic Plasticity. Cell Rep 2015; 12:396-404. [PMID: 26166572 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2015.06.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2014] [Revised: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 06/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurotransmitter release probability (P(r)) largely determines the dynamic properties of synapses. While much is known about the role of presynaptic proteins in transmitter release, their specific contribution to synaptic plasticity is unclear. One such protein, tomosyn, is believed to reduce P(r) by interfering with the SNARE complex formation. Tomosyn is enriched at hippocampal mossy fiber-to-CA3 pyramidal cell synapses (MF-CA3), which characteristically exhibit low P(r), strong synaptic facilitation, and pre-synaptic protein kinase A (PKA)-dependent long-term potentiation (LTP). To evaluate tomosyn's role in MF-CA3 function, we used a combined knockdown (KD)-optogenetic strategy whereby presynaptic neurons with reduced tomosyn levels were selectively activated by light. Using this approach in mouse hippocampal slices, we found that facilitation, LTP, and PKA-induced potentiation were significantly impaired at tomosyn-deficient synapses. These findings not only indicate that tomosyn is a key regulator of MF-CA3 plasticity but also highlight the power of a combined KD-optogenetic approach to determine the role of presynaptic proteins.
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44
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Sensory Neurons Arouse C. elegans Locomotion via Both Glutamate and Neuropeptide Release. PLoS Genet 2015; 11:e1005359. [PMID: 26154367 PMCID: PMC4495980 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1005359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 06/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
C. elegans undergoes periods of behavioral quiescence during larval molts (termed lethargus) and as adults. Little is known about the circuit mechanisms that establish these quiescent states. Lethargus and adult locomotion quiescence is dramatically reduced in mutants lacking the neuropeptide receptor NPR-1. Here, we show that the aroused locomotion of npr-1 mutants results from the exaggerated activity in multiple classes of sensory neurons, including nociceptive (ASH), touch sensitive (ALM and PLM), and stretch sensing (DVA) neurons. These sensory neurons accelerate locomotion via both neuropeptide and glutamate release. The relative contribution of these sensory neurons to arousal differs between larval molts and adults. Our results suggest that a broad network of sensory neurons dictates transitions between aroused and quiescent behavioral states. Animals switch between periods of behavioral arousal and quiescence in response to environmental, developmental, and circadian cues. Little is known about the circuit mechanisms that produce these behavioral states. During larval molts, C. elegans exhibits a sleep-like state (termed lethargus) that is characterized by the absence of feeding and profound locomotion quiescence. We previously showed that mutants lacking the neuropeptide receptor NPR-1 exhibit increased arousal during larval molts, which is in part mediated by increased secretion of an arousal peptide (PDF-1). Here, we compare the circuits regulating arousal in larval molts and adults. We show that a broad network of sensory neurons arouses locomotion but that the impact of each neuron differs between lethargus and adults. We propose that this broad sensory network allows C. elegans to adapt its behavior across a broad range of developmental and physiological circumstances.
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45
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Abstract
A neuropeptide (NLP-12) and its receptor (CKR-2) potentiate tonic and evoked ACh release at Caenorhabditis elegans neuromuscular junctions. Increased evoked release is mediated by a presynaptic pathway (egl-30 Gαq and egl-8 PLCβ) that produces DAG, and by DAG binding to short and long UNC-13 proteins. Potentiation of tonic ACh release persists in mutants deficient for egl-30 Gαq and egl-8 PLCβ and requires DAG binding to UNC-13L (but not UNC-13S). Thus, NLP-12 adjusts tonic and evoked release by distinct mechanisms.
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46
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Nagano K, Takeuchi H, Gao J, Mori Y, Otani T, Wang D, Hirata M. Tomosyn is a novel Akt substrate mediating insulin-dependent GLUT4 exocytosis. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2015; 62:62-71. [PMID: 25725259 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2015.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2014] [Revised: 01/31/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Insulin triggers glucose uptake into skeletal muscle and adipose tissues by gaining the available number of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) on the cell surface. GLUT4-loaded vesicles are targeted to plasma membrane from the intracellular reservoir through multiple trafficking and fusion processes that are mainly regulated by Akt. However, it is still largely unknown how GLUT4 expression in the cell surface is promoted by insulin. In the present study, we identified tomosyn at Ser-783 as a possible Akt-substrate motif and examined whether the phosphorylation at Ser-783 is involved in the regulation of GLUT4 expression. Both Akt1 and Akt2 phosphorylated the wild-type tomosyn, but not the mutant tomosyn in which Ser-783 was replaced with Ala. Phosphorylation of tomosyn at Ser-783 was also observed in the intact cells by insulin stimulation, which was blocked by PI3K inhibitor, LY294002. In vitro pull-down assay showed that phosphorylation of tomosyn at Ser-783 by Akt inhibited the interaction with syntaxin 4. Insulin stimulation increased GLUT4 in the cell surface of CHO-K1 cells to promote glucose uptake, however exogenous expression of the mutant tomosyn attenuated the increase by insulin. These results suggest that Ser-783 of tomosyn is a target of Akt and is implicated in the interaction with syntaxin 4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koki Nagano
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Takeuchi
- Division of Applied Pharmacology, Kyushu Dental University, Kitakyushu 803-8580, Japan.
| | - Jing Gao
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Yoshihide Mori
- Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Takahito Otani
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - DaGuang Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Masato Hirata
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
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47
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Kumar R, Corbett MA, Smith NJC, Jolly LA, Tan C, Keating DJ, Duffield MD, Utsumi T, Moriya K, Smith KR, Hoischen A, Abbott K, Harbord MG, Compton AG, Woenig JA, Arts P, Kwint M, Wieskamp N, Gijsen S, Veltman JA, Bahlo M, Gleeson JG, Haan E, Gecz J. Homozygous mutation of STXBP5L explains an autosomal recessive infantile-onset neurodegenerative disorder. Hum Mol Genet 2014; 24:2000-10. [DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddu614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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48
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Radoff DT, Dong Y, Snead D, Bai J, Eliezer D, Dittman JS. The accessory helix of complexin functions by stabilizing central helix secondary structure. eLife 2014; 3. [PMID: 25383924 PMCID: PMC4270070 DOI: 10.7554/elife.04553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 11/07/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The presynaptic protein complexin (CPX) is a critical regulator of synaptic vesicle fusion, but the mechanisms underlying its regulatory effects are not well understood. Its highly conserved central helix (CH) directly binds the ternary SNARE complex and is required for all known CPX functions. The adjacent accessory helix (AH) is not conserved despite also playing an important role in CPX function, and numerous models for its mechanism have been proposed. We examined the impact of AH mutations and chimeras on CPX function in vivo and in vitro using C. elegans. The mouse AH fully restored function when substituted into worm CPX suggesting its mechanism is evolutionarily conserved. CPX inhibitory function was impaired when helix propagation into the CH was disrupted whereas replacing the AH with a non-native helical sequence restored CPX function. We propose that the AH operates by stabilizing CH secondary structure rather than through protein or lipid interactions. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.04553.001 The nervous system sends information around the body in the form of electrical signals that travel through cells called neurons. These signals cannot pass across the small gaps—called synapses—that separate neighboring neurons. Instead, when electrical signals reach the synapse, chemicals called neurotransmitters are released across the gap and trigger an electrical signal in the next neuron. Neurotransmitters are stored within neurons in small envelopes of membrane known as synaptic vesicles. They are released when the vesicles fuse with the membrane that surrounds the neuron. This fusion process must be tightly controlled to ensure that information is passed between the neurons at the right time. Complexin is a small protein that controls vesicle fusion by binding to a group of proteins called the SNARE complex. It contains two structured sections called the central helix and the accessory helix, which are both important for vesicle fusion. The central helix is able to bind to the SNARE proteins, and it has the same sequence of amino acids—the building blocks of proteins—in all animals. However, the sequence of amino acids in the accessory helix varies widely across different animals and it is not clear whether it performs the same role in all of them. Radoff et al. studied complexin in the nematode worm C. elegans, and found that when its accessory helix is replaced with the amino acid sequence from the mouse one, it can still properly control vesicle fusion. Indeed, complexin can still work properly when its accessory helix is replaced with an artificial protein helix that has a similar shape. These experiments suggest that the overall structure of the accessory helix is more important than its exact sequence of amino acids. Radoff et al. propose that its role in vesicle fusion is to stabilize the structure of the central helix to allow it to bind to the SNARE proteins. The next challenge is to understand how vesicle fusion is prevented when complexin binds to the SNARE proteins. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.04553.002
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel T Radoff
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, United States
| | - Yongming Dong
- Division of Basic Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, United States
| | - David Snead
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, United States
| | - Jihong Bai
- Division of Basic Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, United States
| | - David Eliezer
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, United States
| | - Jeremy S Dittman
- Department of Biochemistry, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, United States
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Zhu Q, Yamakuchi M, Ture S, de la Luz Garcia-Hernandez M, Ko KA, Modjeski KL, LoMonaco MB, Johnson AD, O'Donnell CJ, Takai Y, Morrell CN, Lowenstein CJ. Syntaxin-binding protein STXBP5 inhibits endothelial exocytosis and promotes platelet secretion. J Clin Invest 2014; 124:4503-16. [PMID: 25244095 DOI: 10.1172/jci71245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2013] [Accepted: 07/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In humans, vWF levels predict the risk of myocardial infarction and thrombosis; however, the factors that influence vWF levels are not completely understood. Recent genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified syntaxin-binding protein 5 (STXBP5) as a candidate gene linked to changes in vWF plasma levels, though the functional relationship between STXBP5 and vWF is unknown. We hypothesized that STXBP5 inhibits endothelial cell exocytosis. We found that STXBP5 is expressed in human endothelial cells and colocalizes with and interacts with syntaxin 4. In human endothelial cells reduction of STXBP5 increased exocytosis of vWF and P-selectin. Mice lacking Stxbp5 had higher levels of vWF in the plasma, increased P-selectin translocation, and more platelet-endothelial interactions, which suggests that STXBP5 inhibits endothelial exocytosis. However, Stxbp5 KO mice also displayed hemostasis defects, including prolonged tail bleeding times and impaired mesenteric arteriole and carotid artery thrombosis. Furthermore, platelets from Stxbp5 KO mice had defects in platelet secretion and activation; thus, STXBP5 inhibits endothelial exocytosis but promotes platelet secretion. Our study reveals a vascular function for STXBP5, validates the functional relevance of a candidate gene identified by GWAS, and suggests that variation within STXBP5 is a genetic risk for venous thromboembolic disease.
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50
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Tomosyn-2 is required for normal motor performance in mice and sustains neurotransmission at motor endplates. Brain Struct Funct 2014; 220:1971-82. [DOI: 10.1007/s00429-014-0766-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2013] [Accepted: 03/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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