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Medeiros AT, Gratz S, Delgado A, Ritt J, O’Connor-Giles KM. Ca 2+ channel and active zone protein abundance intersects with input-specific synapse organization to shape functional synaptic diversity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.04.02.535290. [PMID: 37034654 PMCID: PMC10081318 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.02.535290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
Synaptic heterogeneity is a hallmark of nervous systems that enables complex and adaptable communication in neural circuits. To understand circuit function, it is thus critical to determine the factors that contribute to the functional diversity of synapses. We investigated the contributions of voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC) abundance, spatial organization, and subunit composition to synapse diversity among and between synapses formed by two closely related Drosophila glutamatergic motor neurons with distinct neurotransmitter release probabilities (Pr). Surprisingly, VGCC levels are highly predictive of heterogeneous Pr among individual synapses of either low- or high-Pr inputs, but not between inputs. We find that the same number of VGCCs are more densely organized at high-Pr synapses, consistent with tighter VGCC-synaptic vesicle coupling. We generated endogenously tagged lines to investigate VGCC subunits in vivo and found that the α2δ-3 subunit Straightjacket along with the CAST/ELKS active zone (AZ) protein Bruchpilot, both key regulators of VGCCs, are less abundant at high-Pr inputs, yet positively correlate with Pr among synapses formed by either input. Consistently, both Straightjacket and Bruchpilot levels are dynamically increased across AZs of both inputs when neurotransmitter release is potentiated to maintain stable communication following glutamate receptor inhibition. Together, these findings suggest a model in which VGCC and AZ protein abundance intersects with input-specific spatial and molecular organization to shape the functional diversity of synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. T. Medeiros
- Neuroscience Graduate Training Program, Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - S.J. Gratz
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - A. Delgado
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - J.T. Ritt
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI
- Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Kate M. O’Connor-Giles
- Neuroscience Graduate Training Program, Brown University, Providence, RI
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI
- Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, RI
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2
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Aldahabi M, Neher E, Nusser Z. Different states of synaptic vesicle priming explain target cell type-dependent differences in neurotransmitter release. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2322550121. [PMID: 38657053 PMCID: PMC11067035 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2322550121] [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: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Pronounced differences in neurotransmitter release from a given presynaptic neuron, depending on the synaptic target, are among the most intriguing features of cortical networks. Hippocampal pyramidal cells (PCs) release glutamate with low probability to somatostatin expressing oriens-lacunosum-moleculare (O-LM) interneurons (INs), and the postsynaptic responses show robust short-term facilitation, whereas the release from the same presynaptic axons onto fast-spiking INs (FSINs) is ~10-fold higher and the excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) display depression. The mechanisms underlying these vastly different synaptic behaviors have not been conclusively identified. Here, we applied a combined functional, pharmacological, and modeling approach to address whether the main difference lies in the action potential-evoked fusion or else in upstream priming processes of synaptic vesicles (SVs). A sequential two-step SV priming model was fitted to the peak amplitudes of unitary EPSCs recorded in response to complex trains of presynaptic stimuli in acute hippocampal slices of adult mice. At PC-FSIN connections, the fusion probability (Pfusion) of well-primed SVs is 0.6, and 44% of docked SVs are in a fusion-competent state. At PC-O-LM synapses, Pfusion is only 40% lower (0.36), whereas the fraction of well-primed SVs is 6.5-fold smaller. Pharmacological enhancement of fusion by 4-AP and priming by PDBU was recaptured by the model with a selective increase of Pfusion and the fraction of well-primed SVs, respectively. Our results demonstrate that the low fidelity of transmission at PC-O-LM synapses can be explained by a low occupancy of the release sites by well-primed SVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Aldahabi
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurophysiology, Hungarian Research Network Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest1083, Hungary
- János Szentágothai School of Neurosciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest1085, Hungary
| | - Erwin Neher
- Laboratory of Membrane Biophysics, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, 37077Göttingen, Germany
| | - Zoltan Nusser
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurophysiology, Hungarian Research Network Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest1083, Hungary
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Li J, Veeraraghavan P, Young SM. Ca V 2.1 α 1 subunit motifs that control presynaptic Ca V 2.1 subtype abundance are distinct from Ca V 2.1 preference. J Physiol 2024; 602:485-506. [PMID: 38155373 PMCID: PMC10872416 DOI: 10.1113/jp284957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Presynaptic voltage-gated Ca2+ channel (CaV ) subtype abundance at mammalian synapses regulates synaptic transmission in health and disease. In the mammalian central nervous system (CNS), most presynaptic terminals are CaV 2.1 dominant with a developmental reduction in CaV 2.2 and CaV 2.3 levels, and CaV 2 subtype levels are altered in various diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms controlling presynaptic CaV 2 subtype levels are largely unsolved. Because the CaV 2 α1 subunit cytoplasmic regions contain varying levels of sequence conservation, these regions are proposed to control presynaptic CaV 2 subtype preference and abundance. To investigate the potential role of these regions, we expressed chimeric CaV 2.1 α1 subunits containing swapped motifs with the CaV 2.2 and CaV 2.3 α1 subunit on a CaV 2.1/CaV 2.2 null background at the calyx of Held presynaptic terminals. We found that expression of CaV 2.1 α1 subunit chimeras containing the CaV 2.3 loop II-III region or cytoplasmic C-terminus (CT) resulted in a large reduction of presynaptic Ca2+ currents compared to the CaV 2.1 α1 subunit. However, the Ca2+ current sensitivity to the CaV 2.1 blocker agatoxin-IVA was the same between the chimeras and the CaV 2.1 α1 subunit. Additionally, we found no reduction in presynaptic Ca2+ currents with CaV 2.1/2.2 cytoplasmic CT chimeras. We conclude that the motifs in the CaV 2.1 loop II-III and CT do not individually regulate CaV 2.1 preference, although these motifs control CaV 2.1 levels and the CaV 2.3 CT contains motifs that negatively regulate presynaptic CaV 2.3 levels. We propose that the motifs controlling presynaptic CaV 2.1 preference are distinct from those regulating CaV 2.1 levels and may act synergistically to impact pathways regulating CaV 2.1 preference and abundance. KEY POINTS: Presynaptic CaV 2 subtype abundance regulates neuronal circuit properties, although the mechanisms regulating presynaptic CaV 2 subtype abundance and preference remain enigmatic. The CaV α1 subunit determines subtype and contains multiple motifs implicated in regulating presynaptic subtype abundance and preference. The CaV 2.1 α1 subunit domain II-III loop and cytoplasmic C-terminus are positive regulators of presynaptic CaV 2.1 abundance but do not regulate preference. The CaV 2.3 α1 subunit cytoplasmic C-terminus negatively regulates presynaptic CaV 2 subtype abundance but not preference, whereas the CaV 2.2 α1 subunit cytoplasmic C-terminus is not a key regulator of presynaptic CaV 2 subtype abundance or preference. The CaV 2 α1 subunit motifs determining the presynaptic CaV 2 preference are distinct from abundance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianing Li
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Cell Developmental Biology Graduate Program, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | | | - Samuel M. Young
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology, Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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4
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Fekete A, Wang LY. Cracking 'the Da Vinci code' of conduct hidden in Ca v 2.1 α1 subunit for presynaptic occupation. J Physiol 2024; 602:539-540. [PMID: 38319956 DOI: 10.1113/jp286116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Adam Fekete
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lu-Yang Wang
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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5
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Ni K, Liu H, Lai K, Shen L, Li X, Wang J, Shi H. Upregulation of A-type potassium channels suppresses neuronal excitability in hypoxic neonatal mice. FEBS J 2023; 290:4092-4106. [PMID: 37059697 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Neuronal excitability is a critical feature of central nervous system development, playing a fundamental role in the functional maturation of brain regions, including the hippocampus, cerebellum, auditory and visual systems. The present study aimed to determine the mechanism by which hypoxia causes brain dysfunction through perturbation of neuronal excitability in a hypoxic neonatal mouse model. Functional brain development was assessed in humans using the Gesell Development Diagnosis Scale. In mice, gene transcription was evaluated via mRNA sequencing and quantitative PCR; furthermore, patch clamp recordings assessed potassium currents. Clinical observations revealed disrupted functional brain development in 6- and 18-month-old hypoxic neonates, and those born with normal hearing screening unexpectedly exhibited impaired central auditory function at 3 months. In model mice, CA1 pyramidal neurons exhibited reduced spontaneous activity, largely induced by excitatory synaptic input suppression, despite the elevated membrane excitability of hypoxic neurons compared to that of control neurons. In hypoxic neurons, Kcnd3 gene transcription was upregulated, confirming upregulated hippocampal Kv 4.3 expression. A-type potassium currents were enhanced, and Kv 4.3 participated in blocking excitatory presynaptic inputs. Elevated Kv 4.3 activity in pyramidal neurons under hypoxic conditions inhibited excitatory presynaptic inputs and further decreased neuronal excitability, disrupting functional brain development in hypoxic neonates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Ni
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hanwei Liu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ke Lai
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Shen
- Department of Clinical Research Center, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoyan Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiping Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Haibo Shi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Weingarten DJ, Shrestha A, Juda-Nelson K, Kissiwaa SA, Spruston E, Jackman SL. Fast resupply of synaptic vesicles requires synaptotagmin-3. Nature 2022; 611:320-325. [PMID: 36261524 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-05337-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Sustained neuronal activity demands a rapid resupply of synaptic vesicles to maintain reliable synaptic transmission. Such vesicle replenishment is accelerated by submicromolar presynaptic Ca2+ signals by an as-yet unidentified high-affinity Ca2+ sensor1,2. Here we identify synaptotagmin-3 (SYT3)3,4 as that presynaptic high-affinity Ca2+ sensor, which drives vesicle replenishment and short-term synaptic plasticity. Synapses in Syt3 knockout mice exhibited enhanced short-term depression, and recovery from depression was slower and insensitive to presynaptic residual Ca2+. During sustained neuronal firing, SYT3 accelerated vesicle replenishment and increased the size of the readily releasable pool. SYT3 also mediated short-term facilitation under conditions of low release probability and promoted synaptic enhancement together with another high-affinity synaptotagmin, SYT7 (ref. 5). Biophysical modelling predicted that SYT3 mediates both replenishment and facilitation by promoting the transition of loosely docked vesicles to tightly docked, primed states. Our results reveal a crucial role for presynaptic SYT3 in the maintenance of reliable high-frequency synaptic transmission. Moreover, multiple forms of short-term plasticity may converge on a mechanism of reversible, Ca2+-dependent vesicle docking.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amita Shrestha
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Kessa Juda-Nelson
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Sarah A Kissiwaa
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Evan Spruston
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Skyler L Jackman
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
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Prikas E, Paric E, Asih PR, Stefanoska K, Stefen H, Fath T, Poljak A, Ittner A. Tau target identification reveals NSF-dependent effects on AMPA receptor trafficking and memory formation. EMBO J 2022; 41:e10242. [PMID: 35993331 PMCID: PMC9475529 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2021110242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Microtubule-associated protein tau is a central factor in Alzheimer's disease and other tauopathies. However, the physiological functions of tau are unclear. Here, we used proximity-labelling proteomics to chart tau interactomes in primary neurons and mouse brains in vivo. Tau interactors map onto pathways of cytoskeletal, synaptic vesicle and postsynaptic receptor regulation and show significant enrichment for Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and prion disease. We find that tau interacts with and dose-dependently reduces the activity of N-ethylmaleimide sensitive fusion protein (NSF), a vesicular ATPase essential for AMPA-type glutamate receptor (AMPAR) trafficking. Tau-deficient (tau-/- ) neurons showed mislocalised expression of NSF and enhanced synaptic AMPAR surface levels, reversible through the expression of human tau or inhibition of NSF. Consequently, enhanced AMPAR-mediated associative and object recognition memory in tau-/- mice is suppressed by both hippocampal tau and infusion with an NSF-inhibiting peptide. Pathologic mutant tau from mouse models or Alzheimer's disease significantly enhances NSF inhibition. Our results map neuronal tau interactomes and delineate a functional link of tau with NSF in plasticity-associated AMPAR-trafficking and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Prikas
- Flinders Health & Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public HealthFlinders UniversityAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Esmeralda Paric
- Dementia Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human SciencesMacquarie UniversitySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Prita R Asih
- Flinders Health & Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public HealthFlinders UniversityAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Kristie Stefanoska
- Flinders Health & Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public HealthFlinders UniversityAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Holly Stefen
- Dementia Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human SciencesMacquarie UniversitySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Thomas Fath
- Dementia Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human SciencesMacquarie UniversitySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Anne Poljak
- Mark Wainwright Analytical CentreUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Arne Ittner
- Flinders Health & Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public HealthFlinders UniversityAdelaideSAAustralia
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8
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Sukhorukov VS, Voronkova AS, Baranich TI, Gofman AA, Brydun AV, Knyazeva LA, Glinkina VV. Molecular Mechanisms of Interactions between Mitochondria and the Endoplasmic Reticulum: A New Look at How Important Cell Functions are Supported. Mol Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026893322010071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Newman ZL, Bakshinskaya D, Schultz R, Kenny SJ, Moon S, Aghi K, Stanley C, Marnani N, Li R, Bleier J, Xu K, Isacoff EY. Determinants of synapse diversity revealed by super-resolution quantal transmission and active zone imaging. Nat Commun 2022; 13:229. [PMID: 35017509 PMCID: PMC8752601 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27815-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural circuit function depends on the pattern of synaptic connections between neurons and the strength of those connections. Synaptic strength is determined by both postsynaptic sensitivity to neurotransmitter and the presynaptic probability of action potential evoked transmitter release (Pr). Whereas morphology and neurotransmitter receptor number indicate postsynaptic sensitivity, presynaptic indicators and the mechanism that sets Pr remain to be defined. To address this, we developed QuaSOR, a super-resolution method for determining Pr from quantal synaptic transmission imaging at hundreds of glutamatergic synapses at a time. We mapped the Pr onto super-resolution 3D molecular reconstructions of the presynaptic active zones (AZs) of the same synapses at the Drosophila larval neuromuscular junction (NMJ). We find that Pr varies greatly between synapses made by a single axon, quantify the contribution of key AZ proteins to Pr diversity and find that one of these, Complexin, suppresses spontaneous and evoked transmission differentially, thereby generating a spatial and quantitative mismatch between release modes. Transmission is thus regulated by the balance and nanoscale distribution of release-enhancing and suppressing presynaptic proteins to generate high signal-to-noise evoked transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary L Newman
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Dariya Bakshinskaya
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Ryan Schultz
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Samuel J Kenny
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Seonah Moon
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Krisha Aghi
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Cherise Stanley
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Nadia Marnani
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Rachel Li
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Julia Bleier
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Ke Xu
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrated BioImaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Ehud Y Isacoff
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrated BioImaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
- Weill Neurohub, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
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Wichmann C, Kuner T. Heterogeneity of glutamatergic synapses: cellular mechanisms and network consequences. Physiol Rev 2022; 102:269-318. [PMID: 34727002 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00039.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemical synapses are commonly known as a structurally and functionally highly diverse class of cell-cell contacts specialized to mediate communication between neurons. They represent the smallest "computational" unit of the brain and are typically divided into excitatory and inhibitory as well as modulatory categories. These categories are subdivided into diverse types, each representing a different structure-function repertoire that in turn are thought to endow neuronal networks with distinct computational properties. The diversity of structure and function found among a given category of synapses is referred to as heterogeneity. The main building blocks for this heterogeneity are synaptic vesicles, the active zone, the synaptic cleft, the postsynaptic density, and glial processes associated with the synapse. Each of these five structural modules entails a distinct repertoire of functions, and their combination specifies the range of functional heterogeneity at mammalian excitatory synapses, which are the focus of this review. We describe synapse heterogeneity that is manifested on different levels of complexity ranging from the cellular morphology of the pre- and postsynaptic cells toward the expression of different protein isoforms at individual release sites. We attempt to define the range of structural building blocks that are used to vary the basic functional repertoire of excitatory synaptic contacts and discuss sources and general mechanisms of synapse heterogeneity. Finally, we explore the possible impact of synapse heterogeneity on neuronal network function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin Wichmann
- Molecular Architecture of Synapses Group, Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, InnerEarLab and Institute for Biostructural Imaging of Neurodegeneration, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Kuner
- Department of Functional Neuroanatomy, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Heidelberg, Germany
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11
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Sierksma MC, Borst JGG. Using ephaptic coupling to estimate the synaptic cleft resistivity of the calyx of Held synapse. PLoS Comput Biol 2021; 17:e1009527. [PMID: 34699519 PMCID: PMC8570497 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
At synapses, the pre- and postsynaptic cells get so close that currents entering the cleft do not flow exclusively along its conductance, gcl. A prominent example is found in the calyx of Held synapse in the medial nucleus of the trapezoid body (MNTB), where the presynaptic action potential can be recorded in the postsynaptic cell in the form of a prespike. Here, we developed a theoretical framework for ephaptic coupling via the synaptic cleft, and we tested its predictions using the MNTB prespike recorded in voltage-clamp. The shape of the prespike is predicted to resemble either the first or the second derivative of the inverted presynaptic action potential if cleft currents dissipate either mostly capacitively or resistively, respectively. We found that the resistive dissipation scenario provided a better description of the prespike shape. Its size is predicted to scale with the fourth power of the radius of the synapse, explaining why intracellularly recorded prespikes are uncommon in the central nervous system. We show that presynaptic calcium currents also contribute to the prespike shape. This calcium prespike resembled the first derivative of the inverted calcium current, again as predicted by the resistive dissipation scenario. Using this calcium prespike, we obtained an estimate for gcl of ~1 μS. We demonstrate that, for a circular synapse geometry, such as in conventional boutons or the immature calyx of Held, gcl is scale-invariant and only defined by extracellular resistivity, which was ~75 Ωcm, and by cleft height. During development the calyx of Held develops fenestrations. We show that these fenestrations effectively minimize the cleft potentials generated by the adult action potential, which might otherwise interfere with calcium channel opening. We thus provide a quantitative account of the dissipation of currents by the synaptic cleft, which can be readily extrapolated to conventional, bouton-like synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martijn C. Sierksma
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J. Gerard G. Borst
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
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12
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Lee BJ, Yang CH, Lee SY, Lee SH, Kim Y, Ho WK. Voltage-gated calcium channels contribute to spontaneous glutamate release directly via nanodomain coupling or indirectly via calmodulin. Prog Neurobiol 2021; 208:102182. [PMID: 34695543 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2021.102182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Neurotransmitter release occurs either synchronously with action potentials (evoked release) or spontaneously (spontaneous release). Whether the molecular mechanisms underlying evoked and spontaneous release are identical, especially whether voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) can trigger spontaneous events, is still a matter of debate in glutamatergic synapses. To elucidate this issue, we characterized the VGCC dependence of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs) in various synapses with different coupling distances between VGCCs and synaptic vesicles, known as a critical factor in evoked release. We found that most of the extracellular calcium-dependent mEPSCs were attributable to VGCCs in cultured autaptic hippocampal neurons and the mature calyx of Held where VGCCs and vesicles were tightly coupled. Among loosely coupled synapses, mEPSCs were not VGCC-dependent at immature calyx of Held and CA1 pyramidal neuron synapses, whereas VGCCs contribution was significant at CA3 pyramidal neuron synapses. Interestingly, the contribution of VGCCs to spontaneous glutamate release in CA3 pyramidal neurons was abolished by a calmodulin antagonist, calmidazolium. These data suggest that coupling distance between VGCCs and vesicles determines VGCC dependence of spontaneous release at tightly coupled synapses, yet VGCC contribution can be achieved indirectly at loosely coupled synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byoung Ju Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Natural Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Physiology, Seoul National University College of Natural Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Che Ho Yang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Natural Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Physiology, Seoul National University College of Natural Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Brain and Cognitive Science, Seoul National University College of Natural Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Yeon Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Natural Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Physiology, Seoul National University College of Natural Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk-Ho Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Natural Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Physiology, Seoul National University College of Natural Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Neuroscience Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Republic of Korea; Department of Brain and Cognitive Science, Seoul National University College of Natural Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yujin Kim
- Department of Physiology, Seoul National University College of Natural Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Neuroscience Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Republic of Korea; Department of Brain and Cognitive Science, Seoul National University College of Natural Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Won-Kyung Ho
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Natural Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Physiology, Seoul National University College of Natural Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Neuroscience Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Republic of Korea; Department of Brain and Cognitive Science, Seoul National University College of Natural Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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13
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Eshra A, Schmidt H, Eilers J, Hallermann S. Calcium dependence of neurotransmitter release at a high fidelity synapse. eLife 2021; 10:70408. [PMID: 34612812 PMCID: PMC8494478 DOI: 10.7554/elife.70408] [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: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ca2+-dependence of the priming, fusion, and replenishment of synaptic vesicles are fundamental parameters controlling neurotransmitter release and synaptic plasticity. Despite intense efforts, these important steps in the synaptic vesicles’ cycle remain poorly understood due to the technical challenge in disentangling vesicle priming, fusion, and replenishment. Here, we investigated the Ca2+-sensitivity of these steps at mossy fiber synapses in the rodent cerebellum, which are characterized by fast vesicle replenishment mediating high-frequency signaling. We found that the basal free Ca2+ concentration (<200 nM) critically controls action potential-evoked release, indicating a high-affinity Ca2+ sensor for vesicle priming. Ca2+ uncaging experiments revealed a surprisingly shallow and non-saturating relationship between release rate and intracellular Ca2+ concentration up to 50 μM. The rate of vesicle replenishment during sustained elevated intracellular Ca2+ concentration exhibited little Ca2+-dependence. Finally, quantitative mechanistic release schemes with five Ca2+ binding steps incorporating rapid vesicle replenishment via parallel or sequential vesicle pools could explain our data. We thus show that co-existing high- and low-affinity Ca2+ sensors mediate priming, fusion, and replenishment of synaptic vesicles at a high-fidelity synapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelmoneim Eshra
- Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Hartmut Schmidt
- Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Jens Eilers
- Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Stefan Hallermann
- Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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14
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The glutamatergic synapse: a complex machinery for information processing. Cogn Neurodyn 2021; 15:757-781. [PMID: 34603541 DOI: 10.1007/s11571-021-09679-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Being the most abundant synaptic type, the glutamatergic synapse is responsible for the larger part of the brain's information processing. Despite the conceptual simplicity of the basic mechanism of synaptic transmission, the glutamatergic synapse shows a large variation in the response to the presynaptic release of the neurotransmitter. This variability is observed not only among different synapses but also in the same single synapse. The synaptic response variability is due to several mechanisms of control of the information transferred among the neurons and suggests that the glutamatergic synapse is not a simple bridge for the transfer of information but plays an important role in its elaboration and management. The control of the synaptic information is operated at pre, post, and extrasynaptic sites in a sort of cooperation between the pre and postsynaptic neurons which also involves the activity of other neurons. The interaction between the different mechanisms of control is extremely complicated and its complete functionality is far from being fully understood. The present review, although not exhaustively, is intended to outline the most important of these mechanisms and their complexity, the understanding of which will be among the most intriguing challenges of future neuroscience.
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15
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Yang CH, Ho WK, Lee SH. Postnatal maturation of glutamate clearance and release kinetics at the rat and mouse calyx of Held synapses. Synapse 2021; 75:e22215. [PMID: 34057239 DOI: 10.1002/syn.22215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Although calyx of Held synapses undergo dramatic changes around the hearing onset, previous in vivo studies suggest that the calyx synapses undergo further post-hearing maturation process. While developmental changes over the hearing onset have been extensively studied, this post-hearing maturation process remained relatively little investigated. Because of post-hearing maturation, previous results from studies around hearing onset and studies of post-hearing calyx synapses are somewhat inconsistent. Here, we characterized the post-hearing maturation of calyx synapses with regard to in vitro electrophysiological properties in rats and mice. We found that parameters for residual glutamate in the cleft during a train, EPSC kinetics, and vesicle pool size became close to a full mature level by P14, but they further matured until P16 in the rats. Consistently, the phasic and slow EPSCs evoked by action potential trains at P16 calyx synapses were not different from those at P18 or P25 under physiological extracellular [Ca2+ ]o (1.2 mM). In contrast, the parameters for residual current and EPSC kinetics displayed drastic changes until P16 in mice, and slow EPSCs during the train further decreased between P16 and P18, suggesting that maturation of calyx synapses progresses at least up to P16 in rats and P18 in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Che Ho Yang
- Cell Physiology Lab, Department of Physiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine and Neuroscience Research Institute, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Kyung Ho
- Cell Physiology Lab, Department of Physiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine and Neuroscience Research Institute, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Brain and Cognitive Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk-Ho Lee
- Cell Physiology Lab, Department of Physiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine and Neuroscience Research Institute, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Brain and Cognitive Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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16
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Gurma M, Yang YM, Wang LY. Developmental plasticity of NMDA receptors at the calyx of Held synapse. Neuropharmacology 2021; 196:108697. [PMID: 34242682 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108697] [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: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Excitatory synaptic transmission is largely mediated by glutamate receptors in central synapses, such as the calyx of Held synapse in the auditory brainstem. This synapse is best known for undergoing extensive morphological and functional changes throughout early development and thereby has served as a prominent model system to study presynaptic mechanisms of neurotransmitter release. However, the pivotal roles of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) in gating acute forms of activity-dependent, persistent plasticity in vitro and chronic developmental remodeling in vivo are hardly noted. This article will provide a retrospective review of key experimental evidence to conceptualize the impact of a transient abundance of NMDARs during the early postnatal stage on the functionality of fast-spiking central synapses while raising a series of outstanding questions that are of general significance for understanding the developing brain in health and diseases. This article is part of the special Issue on "Glutamate Receptors - NMDA receptors".
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gurma
- Program in Neurosciences & Mental Health, SickKids Research Institute, 555 University Ave, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8, Canada; Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, 1 Kings Circle, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Yi-Mei Yang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Duluth MN, 55812, USA
| | - Lu-Yang Wang
- Program in Neurosciences & Mental Health, SickKids Research Institute, 555 University Ave, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8, Canada; Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, 1 Kings Circle, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada.
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17
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Hintze A, Gültas M, Semmelhack EA, Wichmann C. Ultrastructural maturation of the endbulb of Held active zones comparing wild-type and otoferlin-deficient mice. iScience 2021; 24:102282. [PMID: 33851098 PMCID: PMC8022229 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endbulbs of Held are located in the anteroventral cochlear nucleus and present the first central synapses of the auditory pathway. During development, endbulbs mature functionally to enable rapid and powerful synaptic transmission with high temporal precision. This process is accompanied by morphological changes of endbulb terminals. Loss of the hair cell-specific protein otoferlin (Otof) abolishes neurotransmission in the cochlea and results in the smaller endbulb of Held terminals. Thus, peripheral hearing impairment likely also leads to alterations in the morphological synaptic vesicle (SV) pool size at individual endbulb of Held active zones (AZs). Here, we investigated endbulb AZs in pre-hearing, young, and adult wild-type and Otof−/− mice. During maturation, SV numbers at endbulb AZs increased in wild-type mice but were found to be reduced in Otof−/− mice. The SV population at a distance of 0–15 nm was most strongly affected. Finally, overall SV diameters decreased in Otof−/− animals during maturation. Maturation of wt endbulb of Held active zones leads to more synaptic vesicles At endbulbs of otoferlin knockout mice, synaptic vesicles decline with age Mainly two distinct synaptic vesicle populations are affected Synaptic vesicles sizes are reduced in six-month-old otoferlin knockout animals
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Affiliation(s)
- Anika Hintze
- Molecular Architecture of Synapses Group, Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, InnerEarLab and Center for Biostructural Imaging of Neurodegeneration, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany.,Collaborative Research Center 1286, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,Göttingen Graduate School for Neurosciences, Biophysics and Molecular Biosciences, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Mehmet Gültas
- Breeding Informatics Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Georg-August-University Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Esther A Semmelhack
- Developmental, Neural, and Behavioral Biology MSc/PhD Program, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Carolin Wichmann
- Molecular Architecture of Synapses Group, Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, InnerEarLab and Center for Biostructural Imaging of Neurodegeneration, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany.,Collaborative Research Center 1286, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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18
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Young SM, Veeraraghavan P. Presynaptic voltage-gated calcium channels in the auditory brainstem. Mol Cell Neurosci 2021; 112:103609. [PMID: 33662542 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2021.103609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Sound information encoding within the initial synapses in the auditory brainstem requires reliable and precise synaptic transmission in response to rapid and large fluctuations in action potential (AP) firing rates. The magnitude and location of Ca2+ entry through voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (CaV) in the presynaptic terminal are key determinants in triggering AP-mediated release. In the mammalian central nervous system (CNS), the CaV2.1 subtype is the critical subtype for CNS function, since it is the most efficient CaV2 subtype in triggering AP-mediated synaptic vesicle (SV) release. Auditory brainstem synapses utilize CaV2.1 to sustain fast and repetitive SV release to encode sound information. Therefore, understanding the presynaptic mechanisms that control CaV2.1 localization, organization and biophysical properties are integral to understanding auditory processing. Here, we review our current knowledge about the control of presynaptic CaV2 abundance and organization in the auditory brainstem and impact on the regulation of auditory processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel M Young
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; Department of Otolaryngology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
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19
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Abstract
Neurotransmitter release occurs by regulated exocytosis from synaptic vesicles (SVs). Evolutionarily conserved proteins mediate the essential aspects of this process, including the membrane fusion step and priming steps that make SVs release-competent. Unlike the proteins constituting the core fusion machinery, the SV protein Mover does not occur in all species and all synapses. Its restricted expression suggests that Mover may modulate basic aspects of transmitter release and short-term plasticity. To test this hypothesis, we analyzed synaptic transmission electrophysiologically at the mouse calyx of Held synapse in slices obtained from wild-type mice and mice lacking Mover. Spontaneous transmission was unaffected, indicating that the basic release machinery works in the absence of Mover. Evoked release and vesicular release probability were slightly reduced, and the paired pulse ratio was increased in Mover knockout mice. To explore whether Mover's role is restricted to certain subpools of SVs, we analyzed our data in terms of two models of priming. A model assuming two SV pools in parallel showed a reduced release probability of so-called "superprimed vesicles" while "normally primed" ones were unaffected. For the second model, which holds that vesicles transit sequentially from a loosely docked state to a tightly docked state before exocytosis, we found that knocking out Mover selectively decreased the release probability of tight state vesicles. These results indicate that Mover regulates a subclass of primed SVs in the mouse calyx of Held.
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20
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Pauli M, Heckmann M. Distinguishing between Synaptic Vesicles in Different Functional States. Neuroscience 2021; 458:180-181. [PMID: 33465415 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.12.031] [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: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Editorial on Non-negative matrix factorization as a tool to distinguish between synaptic vesicles in different functional states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Pauli
- Institute for Physiology, Department of Neurophysiology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, D-97070 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Manfred Heckmann
- Institute for Physiology, Department of Neurophysiology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, D-97070 Würzburg, Germany.
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21
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Neher E, Taschenberger H. Non-negative Matrix Factorization as a Tool to Distinguish Between Synaptic Vesicles in Different Functional States. Neuroscience 2021; 458:182-202. [PMID: 33454165 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Synaptic vesicles (SVs) undergo multiple steps of functional maturation (priming) before being fusion competent. We present an analysis technique, which decomposes the time course of quantal release during repetitive stimulation as a sum of contributions of SVs, which existed in distinct functional states prior to stimulation. Such states may represent different degrees of maturation in priming or relate to different molecular composition of the release apparatus. We apply the method to rat calyx of Held synapses. These synapses display a high degree of variability, both with respect to synaptic strength and short-term plasticity during high-frequency stimulus trains. The method successfully describes time courses of quantal release at individual synapses as linear combinations of three components, representing contributions from functionally distinct SV subpools, with variability among synapses largely covered by differences in subpool sizes. Assuming that SVs transit in sequence through at least two priming steps before being released by an action potential (AP) we interpret the components as representing SVs which had been 'fully primed', 'incompletely primed' or undocked prior to stimulation. Given these assumptions, the analysis reports an initial release probability of 0.43 for SVs that were fully primed prior to stimulation. Release probability of that component was found to increase during high-frequency stimulation, leading to rapid depletion of that subpool. SVs that were incompletely primed at rest rapidly obtain fusion-competence during repetitive stimulation and contribute the majority of release after 3-5 stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erwin Neher
- Emeritus Laboratory of Membrane Biophysics, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, 37077 Göttingen, Germany; Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells" (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Holger Taschenberger
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
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22
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Mochida S. Neurotransmitter Release Site Replenishment and Presynaptic Plasticity. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010327. [PMID: 33396919 PMCID: PMC7794938 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
An action potential (AP) triggers neurotransmitter release from synaptic vesicles (SVs) docking to a specialized release site of presynaptic plasma membrane, the active zone (AZ). The AP simultaneously controls the release site replenishment with SV for sustainable synaptic transmission in response to incoming neuronal signals. Although many studies have suggested that the replenishment time is relatively slow, recent studies exploring high speed resolution have revealed SV dynamics with milliseconds timescale after an AP. Accurate regulation is conferred by proteins sensing Ca2+ entering through voltage-gated Ca2+ channels opened by an AP. This review summarizes how millisecond Ca2+ dynamics activate multiple protein cascades for control of the release site replenishment with release-ready SVs that underlie presynaptic short-term plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumiko Mochida
- Department of Physiology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo 160-8402, Japan
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23
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Yang CH, Lee KH, Ho WK, Lee SH. Inter-spike mitochondrial Ca 2+ release enhances high frequency synaptic transmission. J Physiol 2020; 599:1567-1594. [PMID: 33140422 DOI: 10.1113/jp280351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Presynaptic mitochondria not only absorb but also release Ca2+ during high frequency stimulation (HFS) when presynaptic [Ca2+ ] is kept low (<500 nm) by high cytosolic Ca2+ buffer or strong plasma membrane calcium clearance mechanisms under physiological external [Ca2+ ]. Mitochondrial Ca2+ release (MCR) does not alter the global presynaptic Ca2+ transients. MCR during HFS enhances short-term facilitation and steady state excitatory postsynaptic currents by increasing vesicular release probability. The intra-train MCR may provide residual calcium at interspike intervals, and thus support high frequency neurotransmission at central glutamatergic synapses. ABSTRACT Emerging evidence indicates that mitochondrial Ca2+ buffering contributes to local regulation of synaptic transmission. It is unknown, however, whether mitochondrial Ca2+ release (MCR) occurs during high frequency synaptic transmission. Confirming the previous notion that 2 μm tetraphenylphosphonium (TPP+ ) is a specific inhibitor of the mitochondrial Na+ /Ca2+ exchanger (mNCX), we studied the role of MCR via mNCX in short-term plasticity during high frequency stimulation (HFS) at the calyx of Held synapse of the rat. TPP+ reduced short-term facilitation (STF) and steady state excitatory postsynaptic currents during HFS at mature calyx synapses under physiological extracellular [Ca2+ ] ([Ca2+ ]o = 1.2 mm), but not at immature calyx or at 2 mm [Ca2+ ]o . The inhibitory effects of TPP+ were stronger at synapses with morphologically complex calyces harbouring many swellings and at 32°C than at simple calyx synapses and at room temperature. These effects of TPP+ on STF were well correlated with those on the presynaptic mitochondrial [Ca2+ ] build-up during HFS. Mitochondrial [Ca2+ ] during HFS was increased by TPP+ at mature calyces under 1.2 mm [Ca2+ ]o , and further enhanced at 32°C, but not under 2 mm [Ca2+ ]o or at immature calyces. The close correlation of the effects of TPP+ on mitochondrial [Ca2+ ] with those on STF suggests that mNCX contributes to STF at the calyx of Held synapses. The intra-train MCR enhanced vesicular release probability without altering global presynaptic [Ca2+ ]. Our results suggest that MCR during HFS elevates local [Ca2+ ] near synaptic sites at interspike intervals to enhance STF and to support stable synaptic transmission under physiological [Ca2+ ]o .
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Affiliation(s)
- Che Ho Yang
- Department of Physiology, Cell Physiology Lab., Seoul National University College of Medicine and Neuroscience Research Institute, Seoul National University Medical Research Centre, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu-Hee Lee
- Department of Physiology, Cell Physiology Lab., Seoul National University College of Medicine and Neuroscience Research Institute, Seoul National University Medical Research Centre, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Kyung Ho
- Department of Physiology, Cell Physiology Lab., Seoul National University College of Medicine and Neuroscience Research Institute, Seoul National University Medical Research Centre, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Brain and Cognitive Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk-Ho Lee
- Department of Physiology, Cell Physiology Lab., Seoul National University College of Medicine and Neuroscience Research Institute, Seoul National University Medical Research Centre, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Brain and Cognitive Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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24
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Voorn RA, Vogl C. Molecular Assembly and Structural Plasticity of Sensory Ribbon Synapses-A Presynaptic Perspective. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8758. [PMID: 33228215 PMCID: PMC7699581 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the mammalian cochlea, specialized ribbon-type synapses between sensory inner hair cells (IHCs) and postsynaptic spiral ganglion neurons ensure the temporal precision and indefatigability of synaptic sound encoding. These high-through-put synapses are presynaptically characterized by an electron-dense projection-the synaptic ribbon-which provides structural scaffolding and tethers a large pool of synaptic vesicles. While advances have been made in recent years in deciphering the molecular anatomy and function of these specialized active zones, the developmental assembly of this presynaptic interaction hub remains largely elusive. In this review, we discuss the dynamic nature of IHC (pre-) synaptogenesis and highlight molecular key players as well as the transport pathways underlying this process. Since developmental assembly appears to be a highly dynamic process, we further ask if this structural plasticity might be maintained into adulthood, how this may influence the functional properties of a given IHC synapse and how such plasticity could be regulated on the molecular level. To do so, we take a closer look at other ribbon-bearing systems, such as retinal photoreceptors and pinealocytes and aim to infer conserved mechanisms that may mediate these phenomena.
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MESH Headings
- Alcohol Oxidoreductases/genetics
- Alcohol Oxidoreductases/metabolism
- Animals
- Co-Repressor Proteins/genetics
- Co-Repressor Proteins/metabolism
- Cytoskeletal Proteins/genetics
- Cytoskeletal Proteins/metabolism
- Cytoskeleton/metabolism
- Cytoskeleton/ultrastructure
- Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
- Hair Cells, Auditory, Inner/metabolism
- Hair Cells, Auditory, Inner/ultrastructure
- Hair Cells, Auditory, Outer/metabolism
- Hair Cells, Auditory, Outer/ultrastructure
- Hair Cells, Vestibular/metabolism
- Hair Cells, Vestibular/ultrastructure
- Mechanotransduction, Cellular
- Mice
- Nerve Tissue Proteins/genetics
- Nerve Tissue Proteins/metabolism
- Neuronal Plasticity/genetics
- Neuropeptides/genetics
- Neuropeptides/metabolism
- Rats
- Synapses/metabolism
- Synapses/ultrastructure
- Synaptic Transmission/genetics
- Synaptic Vesicles/metabolism
- Synaptic Vesicles/ultrastructure
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Affiliation(s)
- Roos Anouk Voorn
- Presynaptogenesis and Intracellular Transport in Hair Cells Junior Research Group, Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany;
- Göttingen Graduate Center for Neurosciences, Biophysics and Molecular Biosciences, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
- Collaborative Research Center 889 “Cellular Mechanisms of Sensory Processing”, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Christian Vogl
- Presynaptogenesis and Intracellular Transport in Hair Cells Junior Research Group, Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany;
- Collaborative Research Center 889 “Cellular Mechanisms of Sensory Processing”, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
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25
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Hu H, Wang X, Li C, Li Y, Hao J, Zhou Y, Yang X, Chen P, Shen X, Zhang S. Loss of Dysbindin Implicates Synaptic Vesicle Replenishment Dysregulation as a Potential Pathogenic Mechanism in Schizophrenia. Neuroscience 2020; 452:138-152. [PMID: 33186610 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The schizophrenia-susceptibility gene, dystrobrevin-binding protein 1 (DTNBP1), encodes the dysbindin protein and mediates neurotransmission and neurodevelopment in normal subjects. Functional studies show that DTNBP1 loss may cause deficient presynaptic vesicle transmission, which is related to multiple psychiatric disorders. However, the functional mechanism of dysbindin-mediated synaptic vesicle transmission has not been investigated systematically. In this study, we performed electrophysiological recordings in calyx of Held synapses. We found that excitatory postsynaptic current (EPSC) and miniature EPSC (mEPSC) amplitudes were unchanged in dysbindin-deficient synapses, but readily releasable pool (RRP) size and calcium dependent vesicle replenishment were affected during high-frequency stimulation. Moreover, dysbindin loss accompanied slightly decreases in Munc18-1 and snapin expression levels, which are associated with vesicle priming and synaptic homeostasis under high-frequency stimulation. Together, we inferred that dysbindin directly interacts with Munc18-1 and snapin to mediate calcium dependent RRP replenishment. Dysbindin loss may lead to RRP replenishment dysregulation during high-frequency stimulation, potentially causing cognitive impairment in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xuefeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Junfeng Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yuanli Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiaopeng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Peihua Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, CAS, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China.
| | - Xuefeng Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, CAS, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China.
| | - Shuli Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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26
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Tawfik B, Wang L. Synaptic competition: ‘to be or not to be’ the calyx of Held? J Physiol 2020; 598:4425-4426. [DOI: 10.1113/jp280560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bassam Tawfik
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health SickKids Research Institute Toronto Ontario M5G 1X8 Canada
- Department of Physiology University of Toronto Toronto Ontario M5S 1A8 Canada
| | - Lu‐Yang Wang
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health SickKids Research Institute Toronto Ontario M5G 1X8 Canada
- Department of Physiology University of Toronto Toronto Ontario M5S 1A8 Canada
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Mechanisms and Functional Consequences of Presynaptic Homeostatic Plasticity at Auditory Nerve Synapses. J Neurosci 2020; 40:6896-6909. [PMID: 32747441 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1175-19.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple forms of homeostasis influence synaptic function under diverse activity conditions. Both presynaptic and postsynaptic forms of homeostasis are important, but their relative impact on fidelity is unknown. To address this issue, we studied auditory nerve synapses onto bushy cells in the cochlear nucleus of mice of both sexes. These synapses undergo bidirectional presynaptic and postsynaptic homeostatic changes with increased and decreased acoustic stimulation. We found that both young and mature synapses exhibit similar activity-dependent changes in short-term depression. Experiments using chelators and imaging both indicated that presynaptic Ca2+ influx decreased after noise exposure, and increased after ligating the ear canal. By contrast, Ca2+ cooperativity was unaffected. Experiments using specific antagonists suggest that occlusion leads to changes in the Ca2+ channel subtypes driving neurotransmitter release. Furthermore, dynamic-clamp experiments revealed that spike fidelity primarily depended on changes in presynaptic depression, with some contribution from changes in postsynaptic intrinsic properties. These experiments indicate that presynaptic Ca2+ influx is homeostatically regulated in vivo to enhance synaptic fidelity.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Homeostatic mechanisms in synapses maintain stable function in the face of different levels of activity. Both juvenile and mature auditory nerve synapses onto bushy cells modify short-term depression in different acoustic environments, which raises the question of what the underlying presynaptic mechanisms are and the relative importance of presynaptic and postsynaptic contributions to the faithful transfer of information. Changes in short-term depression under different acoustic conditions were a result of changes in presynaptic Ca2+ influx. Spike fidelity was affected by both presynaptic and postsynaptic changes after ear occlusion and was only affected by presynaptic changes after noise-rearing. These findings are important for understanding regulation of auditory synapses under normal conditions and also in disorders following noise exposure or conductive hearing loss.
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Goel P, Nishimura S, Chetlapalli K, Li X, Chen C, Dickman D. Distinct Target-Specific Mechanisms Homeostatically Stabilize Transmission at Pre- and Post-synaptic Compartments. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:196. [PMID: 32676010 PMCID: PMC7333441 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.00196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurons must establish and stabilize connections made with diverse targets, each with distinct demands and functional characteristics. At Drosophila neuromuscular junctions (NMJs), synaptic strength remains stable in a manipulation that simultaneously induces hypo-innervation on one target and hyper-innervation on the other. However, the expression mechanisms that achieve this exquisite target-specific homeostatic control remain enigmatic. Here, we identify the distinct target-specific homeostatic expression mechanisms. On the hypo-innervated target, an increase in postsynaptic glutamate receptor (GluR) abundance is sufficient to compensate for reduced innervation, without any apparent presynaptic adaptations. In contrast, a target-specific reduction in presynaptic neurotransmitter release probability is reflected by a decrease in active zone components restricted to terminals of hyper-innervated targets. Finally, loss of postsynaptic GluRs on one target induces a compartmentalized, homeostatic enhancement of presynaptic neurotransmitter release called presynaptic homeostatic potentiation (PHP) that can be precisely balanced with the adaptations required for both hypo- and hyper-innervation to maintain stable synaptic strength. Thus, distinct anterograde and retrograde signaling systems operate at pre- and post-synaptic compartments to enable target-specific, homeostatic control of neurotransmission.
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A Slow Short-Term Depression at Purkinje to Deep Cerebellar Nuclear Neuron Synapses Supports Gain-Control and Linear Encoding over Second-Long Time Windows. J Neurosci 2020; 40:5937-5953. [PMID: 32554551 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2078-19.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Modifications in the sensitivity of neural elements allow the brain to adapt its functions to varying demands. Frequency-dependent short-term synaptic depression (STD) provides a dynamic gain-control mechanism enabling adaptation to different background conditions alongside enhanced sensitivity to input-driven changes in activity. In contrast, synapses displaying frequency-invariant transmission can faithfully transfer ongoing presynaptic rates enabling linear processing, deemed critical for many functions. However, rigid frequency-invariant transmission may lead to runaway dynamics and low sensitivity to changes in rate. Here, I investigated the Purkinje cell to deep cerebellar nuclei neuron synapses (PC_DCNs), which display frequency invariance, and yet, PCs maintain background activity at disparate rates, even at rest. Using protracted PC_DCN activation (120 s) to mimic background activity in cerebellar slices from mature mice of both sexes, I identified a previously unrecognized, frequency-dependent, slow STD (S-STD), adapting IPSC amplitudes in tens of seconds to minutes. However, after changes in activation rates, over a behavior-relevant second-long time window, S-STD enabled scaled linear encoding of PC rates in synaptic charge transfer and DCN spiking activity. Combined electrophysiology, optogenetics, and statistical analysis suggested that S-STD mechanism is input-specific, involving decreased ready-to-release quanta, and distinct from faster short-term plasticity (f-STP). Accordingly, an S-STD component with a scaling effect (i.e., activity-dependent release sites inactivation), extending a model explaining PC_DCN release on shorter timescales using balanced f-STP, reproduced the experimental results. Thus, these results elucidates a novel slow gain-control mechanism able to support linear transfer of behavior-driven/learned PC rates concurrently with background activity adaptation, and furthermore, provides an alternative pathway to refine PC output.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The brain can adapt to varying demands by dynamically changing the gain of its synapses; however, some tasks require ongoing linear transfer of presynaptic rates, seemingly incompatible with nonlinear gain adaptation. Here, I report a novel slow gain-control mechanism enabling scaled linear encoding of presynaptic rates over behavior-relevant time windows, and adaptation to background activity at the Purkinje to deep cerebellar nuclear neurons synapses (PC_DCNs). A previously unrecognized PC_DCNs slow and frequency-dependent short-term synaptic depression (S-STD) mediates this process. Experimental evidence and simulations suggested that scaled linear encoding emerges from the combination of S-STD slow dynamics and frequency-invariant transmission at faster timescales. These results demonstrate a mechanism reconciling rate code with background activity adaptation and suitable for flexibly tuning PCs output via background activity modulation.
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Dolphin AC, Lee A. Presynaptic calcium channels: specialized control of synaptic neurotransmitter release. Nat Rev Neurosci 2020; 21:213-229. [PMID: 32161339 PMCID: PMC7873717 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-020-0278-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Chemical synapses are heterogeneous junctions formed between neurons that are specialized for the conversion of electrical impulses into the exocytotic release of neurotransmitters. Voltage-gated Ca2+ channels play a pivotal role in this process as they are the major conduits for the Ca2+ ions that trigger the fusion of neurotransmitter-containing vesicles with the presynaptic membrane. Alterations in the intrinsic function of these channels and their positioning within the active zone can profoundly alter the timing and strength of synaptic output. Advances in optical and electron microscopic imaging, structural biology and molecular techniques have facilitated recent breakthroughs in our understanding of the properties of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels that support their presynaptic functions. Here we examine the nature of these channels, how they are trafficked to and anchored within presynaptic boutons, and the mechanisms that allow them to function optimally in shaping the flow of information through neural circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette C Dolphin
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Amy Lee
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.
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Heine M, Holcman D. Asymmetry Between Pre- and Postsynaptic Transient Nanodomains Shapes Neuronal Communication. Trends Neurosci 2020; 43:182-196. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2020.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 01/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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α2δ-2 Protein Controls Structure and Function at the Cerebellar Climbing Fiber Synapse. J Neurosci 2020; 40:2403-2415. [PMID: 32086258 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1514-19.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
α2δ proteins (Cacna2d1-4) are auxiliary subunits of voltage-dependent calcium channels that also drive synapse formation and maturation. Because cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) predominantly, if not exclusively, express one isoform of this family, α2δ-2 (Cacna2d2), we used PCs as a model system to examine roles of α2δ in excitatory synaptic function in male and female Cacna2d2 knock-out (KO) mice. Whole-cell recordings of PCs from acute cerebellar slices revealed altered climbing fiber (CF)-evoked complex spike generation, as well as increased amplitude and faster decay of CF-evoked EPSCs. CF terminals in the KO were localized more proximally on PC dendrites, as indicated by VGLUT2+ immunoreactive puncta, and computational modeling demonstrated that the increased EPSC amplitude can be partly attributed to the more proximal location of CF terminals. In addition, CFs in KO mice exhibited increased multivesicular transmission, corresponding to greater sustained responses during repetitive stimulation, despite a reduction in the measured probability of release. Electron microscopy demonstrated that mutant CF terminals had twice as many vesicle release sites, providing a morphologic explanation for the enhanced glutamate release. Though KO CFs evoked larger amplitude EPSCs, the charge transfer was the same as wild-type as a result of increased glutamate reuptake, producing faster decay kinetics. Together, the larger, faster EPSCs in the KO explain the altered complex spike responses, which degrade information transfer from PCs and likely contribute to ataxia in Cacna2d2 KO mice. Our results also illustrate the multidimensional synaptic roles of α2δ proteins.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT α2δ proteins (Cacna2d1-4) regulate synaptic transmission and synaptogenesis, but coexpression of multiple α2δ isoforms has obscured a clear understanding of how various α2δ proteins control synaptic function. We focused on roles of the α2δ-2 protein (Cacna2d2), the deletion of which causes cerebellar ataxia and epilepsy in mice and humans. Because cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) only express this single isoform, we studied excitatory climbing fiber synaptic function onto PCs in Cacna2d2 KO mice. Using optical and electrophysiological analysis, we provide a detailed description of the changes in PCs lacking α2δ-2, and provide a comprehensive mechanistic explanation for how functional synaptic phenotypes contribute to the altered cerebellar output.
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Quantitation and Simulation of Single Action Potential-Evoked Ca 2+ Signals in CA1 Pyramidal Neuron Presynaptic Terminals. eNeuro 2019; 6:ENEURO.0343-19.2019. [PMID: 31551250 PMCID: PMC6800293 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0343-19.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Presynaptic Ca2+ evokes exocytosis, endocytosis, and synaptic plasticity. However, Ca2+ flux and interactions at presynaptic molecular targets are difficult to quantify because fluorescence imaging has limited resolution. In rats of either sex, we measured single varicosity presynaptic Ca2+ using Ca2+ dyes as buffers, and constructed models of Ca2+ dispersal. Action potentials evoked Ca2+ transients with little variation when measured with low-affinity dye (peak amplitude 789 ± 39 nM, within 2 ms of stimulation; decay times, 119 ± 10 ms). Endogenous Ca2+ buffering capacity, action potential-evoked free [Ca2+]i, and total Ca2+ amounts entering terminals were determined using Ca2+ dyes as buffers. These data constrained Monte Carlo (MCell) simulations of Ca2+ entry, buffering, and removal. Simulations of experimentally-determined Ca2+ fluxes, buffered by simulated calbindin28K well fit data, and were consistent with clustered Ca2+ entry followed within 4 ms by diffusion throughout the varicosity. Repetitive stimulation caused free varicosity Ca2+ to sum. However, simulated in nanometer domains, its removal by pumps and buffering was negligible, while local diffusion dominated. Thus, Ca2+ within tens of nanometers of entry, did not accumulate. A model of synaptotagmin1 (syt1)-Ca2+ binding indicates that even with 10 µM free varicosity evoked Ca2+, syt1 must be within tens of nanometers of channels to ensure occupation of all its Ca2+-binding sites. Repetitive stimulation, evoking short-term synaptic enhancement, does not modify probabilities of Ca2+ fully occupying syt1’s C2 domains, suggesting that enhancement is not mediated by Ca2+-syt1 interactions. We conclude that at spatiotemporal scales of fusion machines, Ca2+ necessary for their activation is diffusion dominated.
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Distinct Nanoscale Calcium Channel and Synaptic Vesicle Topographies Contribute to the Diversity of Synaptic Function. Neuron 2019; 104:693-710.e9. [PMID: 31558350 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2019.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The nanoscale topographical arrangement of voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCC) and synaptic vesicles (SVs) determines synaptic strength and plasticity, but whether distinct spatial distributions underpin diversity of synaptic function is unknown. We performed single bouton Ca2+ imaging, Ca2+ chelator competition, immunogold electron microscopic (EM) localization of VGCCs and the active zone (AZ) protein Munc13-1, at two cerebellar synapses. Unexpectedly, we found that weak synapses exhibited 3-fold more VGCCs than strong synapses, while the coupling distance was 5-fold longer. Reaction-diffusion modeling could explain both functional and structural data with two strikingly different nanotopographical motifs: strong synapses are composed of SVs that are tightly coupled (∼10 nm) to VGCC clusters, whereas at weak synapses VGCCs were excluded from the vicinity (∼50 nm) of docked vesicles. The distinct VGCC-SV topographical motifs also confer differential sensitivity to neuromodulation. Thus, VGCC-SV arrangements are not canonical, and their diversity could underlie functional heterogeneity across CNS synapses.
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Presynaptic Mitochondria Volume and Abundance Increase during Development of a High-Fidelity Synapse. J Neurosci 2019; 39:7994-8012. [PMID: 31455662 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0363-19.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The calyx of Held, a large glutamatergic presynaptic terminal in the auditory brainstem undergoes developmental changes to support the high action-potential firing rates required for auditory information encoding. In addition, calyx terminals are morphologically diverse, which impacts vesicle release properties and synaptic plasticity. Mitochondria influence synaptic plasticity through calcium buffering and are crucial for providing the energy required for synaptic transmission. Therefore, it has been postulated that mitochondrial levels increase during development and contribute to the morphological-functional diversity in the mature calyx. However, the developmental profile of mitochondrial volumes and subsynaptic distribution at the calyx of Held remains unclear. To provide insight on this, we developed a helper-dependent adenoviral vector that expresses the genetically encoded peroxidase marker for mitochondria, mito-APEX2, at the mouse calyx of Held. We developed protocols to detect labeled mitochondria for use with serial block face scanning electron microscopy to carry out semiautomated segmentation of mitochondria, high-throughput whole-terminal reconstruction, and presynaptic ultrastructure in mice of either sex. Subsequently, we measured mitochondrial volumes and subsynaptic distributions at the immature postnatal day (P)7 and the mature (P21) calyx. We found an increase of mitochondria volumes in terminals and axons from P7 to P21 but did not observe differences between stalk and swelling subcompartments in the mature calyx. Based on these findings, we propose that mitochondrial volumes and synaptic localization developmentally increase to support high firing rates required in the initial stages of auditory information processing.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Elucidating the developmental processes of auditory brainstem presynaptic terminals is critical to understanding auditory information encoding. Additionally, morphological-functional diversity at these terminals is proposed to enhance coding capacity. Mitochondria provide energy for synaptic transmission and can buffer calcium, impacting synaptic plasticity; however, their developmental profile to ultimately support the energetic demands of synapses following the onset of hearing remains unknown. Therefore, we created a helper-dependent adenoviral vector with the mitochondria-targeting peroxidase mito-APEX2 and expressed it at the mouse calyx of Held. Volumetric reconstructions of serial block face electron microscopy data of immature and mature labeled calyces reveal that mitochondrial volumes are increased to support high firing rates upon maturity.
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Fawley JA, Andresen MC. Distinct Calcium Sources Define Compartmentalized Synaptic Signaling Domains. Neuroscientist 2019; 25:408-419. [PMID: 31375041 DOI: 10.1177/1073858419863771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Nervous system communication relies on neurotransmitter release for synaptic transmission between neurons. Neurotransmitter is contained within vesicles in presynaptic terminals and intraterminal calcium governs the fundamental step of their release into the synaptic cleft. Despite a common dependence on calcium, synaptic transmission and its modulation varies highly across the nervous system. The precise mechanisms that underlie this heterogeneity, however, remain unclear. The present review highlights recent data that reveal vesicles sourced from separate pools define discrete modes of release. A rich diversity of regulatory machinery may further distinguish the different forms of vesicle release, including presynaptic proteins involved in trafficking, alignment, and exocytosis. These multiple vesicle release mechanisms and vesicle pools likely depend on the arrangement of vesicles in relation to specific calcium entry pathways that create compartmentalized spheres of calcium influence (i.e., domains). This diversity permits release specialization. This review details examples of how individual neurons rely on multiple calcium sources and unique regulatory schemes to provide differential release and discrete modulation of neurotransmitter release from specific vesicle pools-as part of network signal integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Fawley
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Michael C Andresen
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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