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Dallo S, Shin J, Zhang S, Ren Q, Bao H. Designer Nanodiscs to Probe and Reprogram Membrane Biology in Synapses. J Mol Biol 2023; 435:167757. [PMID: 35872069 PMCID: PMC9805492 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2022.167757] [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: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Signal transduction at the synapse is mediated by a variety of protein-lipid interactions, which are vital for the spatial and temporal regulation of synaptic vesicle biogenesis, neurotransmitter release, and postsynaptic receptor activation. Therefore, our understanding of synaptic transmission cannot be completed until the elucidation of these critical protein-lipid interactions. On this front, recent advances in nanodiscs have vastly expanded our ability to probe and reprogram membrane biology in synapses. Here, we summarize the progress of the nanodisc toolbox and discuss future directions in this exciting field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Dallo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, UF Scripps Biomedical Research, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter 33458, FL, USA
| | - Jeehae Shin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, UF Scripps Biomedical Research, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter 33458, FL, USA
| | - Shanwen Zhang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, UF Scripps Biomedical Research, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter 33458, FL, USA
| | - Qian Ren
- Department of Molecular Medicine, UF Scripps Biomedical Research, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter 33458, FL, USA
| | - Huan Bao
- Department of Molecular Medicine, UF Scripps Biomedical Research, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter 33458, FL, USA.
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2
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Xue M, Cao Y, Shen C, Guo W. Computational Advances of Protein/Neurotransmitter-membrane Interactions Involved in Vesicle Fusion and Neurotransmitter Release. J Mol Biol 2023; 435:167818. [PMID: 36089056 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2022.167818] [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: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Vesicle fusion is of crucial importance to neuronal communication at neuron terminals. The exquisite but complex fusion machinery for neurotransmitter release is tightly controlled and regulated by protein/neurotransmitter-membrane interactions. Computational 'microscopies', in particular molecular dynamics simulations and related techniques, have provided notable insight into the physiological process over the past decades, and have made enormous contributions to fields such as neurology, pharmacology and pathophysiology. Here we review the computational advances of protein/neurotransmitter-membrane interactions related to presynaptic vesicle-membrane fusion and neurotransmitter release, and outline the in silico challenges ahead for understanding this important physiological process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minmin Xue
- Key Laboratory for Intelligent Nano Materials and Devices of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Mechanics and Control of Mechanical Structures, and Institute for Frontier Science, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing 210016, China
| | - Yuwei Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Tribology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Chun Shen
- Key Laboratory for Intelligent Nano Materials and Devices of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Mechanics and Control of Mechanical Structures, and Institute for Frontier Science, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing 210016, China.
| | - Wanlin Guo
- Key Laboratory for Intelligent Nano Materials and Devices of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Mechanics and Control of Mechanical Structures, and Institute for Frontier Science, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing 210016, China; State Key Laboratory of Tribology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
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3
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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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4
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Wang S, Ma C. Neuronal SNARE complex assembly guided by Munc18-1 and Munc13-1. FEBS Open Bio 2022; 12:1939-1957. [PMID: 35278279 PMCID: PMC9623535 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurotransmitter release by Ca2+ -triggered synaptic vesicle exocytosis is essential for information transmission in the nervous system. The soluble N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) syntaxin-1, SNAP-25, and synaptobrevin-2 form the SNARE complex to bring synaptic vesicles and the plasma membranes together and to catalyze membrane fusion. Munc18-1 and Munc13-1 regulate synaptic vesicle priming via orchestrating neuronal SNARE complex assembly. In this review, we summarize recent advances toward the functions and molecular mechanisms of Munc18-1 and Munc13-1 in guiding neuronal SNARE complex assembly, and discuss the functional similarities and differences between Munc18-1 and Munc13-1 in neurons and their homologs in other intracellular membrane trafficking systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of EducationCollege of Life Science and TechnologyHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Cong Ma
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of EducationCollege of Life Science and TechnologyHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
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5
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Pierson J, Shin YK. Stabilization of the SNARE Core by Complexin-1 Facilitates Fusion Pore Expansion. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 8:805000. [PMID: 34970598 PMCID: PMC8712692 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.805000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the neuron, neurotransmitter release is an essential function that must be both consistent and tightly regulated. The continuity of neurotransmitter release is dependent in large part on vesicle recycling. However, the protein factors that dictate the vesicle recycling pathway are elusive. Here, we use a single vesicle-to-supported bilayer fusion assay to investigate complexin-1 (cpx1)’s influence on SNARE-dependent fusion pore expansion. With total internal reflection (TIR) microscopy using a 10 kDa polymer fluorescence probe, we are able to detect the presence of large fusion pores. With cpx1, however, we observe a significant increase of the probability of the formation of large fusion pores. The domain deletion analysis reveals that the SNARE-binding core domain of cpx1 is mainly responsible for its ability to promote the fusion pore expansion. In addition, the results show that cpx1 helps the pore to expand larger, which results in faster release of the polymer probe. Thus, the results demonstrate a reciprocal relationship between event duration and the size of the fusion pore. Based on the data, a hypothetical mechanistic model can be deduced. In this mechanistic model, the cpx1 binding stabilizes the four-helix bundle structure of the SNARE core throughout the fusion pore expansion, whereby the highly curved bilayer within the fusion pore is stabilized by the SNARE pins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josh Pierson
- Professor Yeon-Kyun Shin Lab, Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Yeon-Kyun Shin
- Professor Yeon-Kyun Shin Lab, Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
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6
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Khounlo R, Hawk BJD, Khu TM, Yoo G, Lee NK, Pierson J, Shin YK. Membrane Binding of α-Synuclein Stimulates Expansion of SNARE-Dependent Fusion Pore. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:663431. [PMID: 34350173 PMCID: PMC8326570 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.663431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
SNARE-dependent membrane fusion is essential for neurotransmitter release at the synapse. Recently, α-synuclein has emerged as an important regulator for membrane fusion. Misfolded α-synuclein oligomers are potent fusion inhibitors. However, the function of normal α-synuclein has been elusive. Here, we use the single vesicle-to-supported bilayer fusion assay to dissect the role of α-synuclein in membrane fusion. The assay employs 10 kD Rhodamine B-dextran as the content probe that can detect fusion pores larger than ∼6 nm. We find that the SNARE complex alone is inefficient at dilating fusion pores. However, α-synuclein dramatically increases the probability as well as the duration of large pores. When the SNARE-interacting C-terminal region of α-synuclein was truncated, the mutant behaves the same as the wild-type. However, the double proline mutants compromising membrane-binding show significantly reduced effects on fusion pore expansion. Thus, our results suggest that α-synuclein stimulates fusion pore expansion specifically through its membrane binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Khounlo
- Yeon-Kyun Shin Lab, Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics & Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Brenden J D Hawk
- Yeon-Kyun Shin Lab, Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics & Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Tung-Mei Khu
- Yeon-Kyun Shin Lab, Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics & Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Gyeongji Yoo
- School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, South Korea
| | - Nam Ki Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Josh Pierson
- Yeon-Kyun Shin Lab, Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics & Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Yeon-Kyun Shin
- Yeon-Kyun Shin Lab, Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics & Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
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7
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Munc18-1 induces conformational changes of syntaxin-1 in multiple intermediates for SNARE assembly. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11623. [PMID: 32669573 PMCID: PMC7363831 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-68476-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
In neuronal exocytosis, SNARE assembly into a stable four-helix bundle drives membrane fusion. Previous studies have revealed that the SM protein Munc18-1 plays a critical role for precise SNARE assembly with the help of Munc13-1, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we used single-molecule FRET assays with a nanodisc membrane reconstitution system to investigate the conformational dynamics of SNARE/Munc18-1 complexes in multiple intermediate steps towards the SNARE complex. We found that single Munc18-1 proteins induce the closed conformation of syntaxin-1 not only in the free syntaxin-1 but also in the t-SNARE (syntaxin-1/SNAP-25) complex. These results implicate that Munc18-1 may act as a gatekeeper for both binary and ternary SNARE complex formation by locking the syntaxin-1 in a cleft of Munc18-1. Furthermore, the kinetic analysis of the opening/closing transition reveals that the closed syntaxin-1 in the syntaxin-1/SNAP-25/Munc18-1 complex is less stable than that in the closed syntaxin-1/Munc18-1 complex, which is manifested by the infrequent closing transition, indicating that the conformational equilibrium of the ternary complex is biased toward the open conformation of syntaxin-1 compared with the binary complex.
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8
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Yin L, Masuyer G, Zhang S, Zhang J, Miyashita SI, Burgin D, Lovelock L, Coker SF, Fu TM, Stenmark P, Dong M. Characterization of a membrane binding loop leads to engineering botulinum neurotoxin B with improved therapeutic efficacy. PLoS Biol 2020; 18:e3000618. [PMID: 32182233 PMCID: PMC7077807 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3000618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are a family of bacterial toxins with seven major serotypes (BoNT/A–G). The ability of these toxins to target and bind to motor nerve terminals is a key factor determining their potency and efficacy. Among these toxins, BoNT/B is one of the two types approved for medical and cosmetic uses. Besides binding to well-established receptors, an extended loop in the C-terminal receptor-binding domain (HC) of BoNT/B (HC/B) has been proposed to also contribute to toxin binding to neurons by interacting with lipid membranes (termed lipid-binding loop [LBL]). Analogous loops exist in the HCs of BoNT/C, D, G, and a chimeric toxin DC. However, it has been challenging to detect and characterize binding of LBLs to lipid membranes. Here, using the nanodisc system and biolayer interferometry assays, we find that HC/DC, C, and G, but not HC/B and HC/D, are capable of binding to receptor-free lipids directly, with HC/DC having the highest level of binding. Mutagenesis studies demonstrate the critical role of consecutive aromatic residues at the tip of the LBL for binding of HC/DC to lipid membranes. Taking advantage of this insight, we then create a “gain-of-function” mutant HC/B by replacing two nonaromatic residues at the tip of its LBL with tryptophan. Cocrystallization studies confirm that these two tryptophan residues do not alter the structure of HC/B or the interactions with its receptors. Such a mutated HC/B gains the ability to bind receptor-free lipid membranes and shows enhanced binding to cultured neurons. Finally, full-length BoNT/B containing two tryptophan mutations in its LBL, together with two additional mutations (E1191M/S1199Y) that increase binding to human receptors, is produced and evaluated in mice in vivo using Digit Abduction Score assays. This mutant toxin shows enhanced efficacy in paralyzing local muscles at the injection site and lower systemic diffusion, thus extending both safety range and duration of paralysis compared with the control BoNT/B. These findings establish a mechanistic understanding of LBL–lipid interactions and create a modified BoNT/B with improved therapeutic efficacy. Botulinum neurotoxins are a family of bacterial toxins, some of which are approved for medical and cosmetic uses. This study shows that introducing aromatic residues to a lipid binding loop improved therapeutic efficacy of botulinum neurotoxin B by enhancing its ability to bind to lipid membranes at motor nerve terminals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linxiang Yin
- Department of Urology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Department of Microbiology and Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Geoffrey Masuyer
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sicai Zhang
- Department of Urology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Department of Microbiology and Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Urology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Department of Microbiology and Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Shin-Ichiro Miyashita
- Department of Urology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Department of Microbiology and Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | | | | | | | - Tian-min Fu
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Pål Stenmark
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- * E-mail: (PS); (MD)
| | - Min Dong
- Department of Urology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Department of Microbiology and Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- * E-mail: (PS); (MD)
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9
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Torng T, Song H, Wickner W. Asymmetric Rab activation of vacuolar HOPS to catalyze SNARE complex assembly. Mol Biol Cell 2020; 31:1060-1068. [PMID: 32160129 PMCID: PMC7346727 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e20-01-0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Intracellular membrane fusion requires Rab-family GTPases, their effector tethers, soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins, and SNARE chaperones of the Sec1/Munc18 (SM), Sec17/α-SNAP, and Sec18/NSF families. We have developed an assay using fluorescence resonance energy transfer to measure SNARE complex formation in real time. We now show that yeast vacuolar SNAREs assemble spontaneously into RQaQbQc complexes when the R- and Qa-SNAREs are concentrated in the same micelles or in cis on the same membrane. When SNAREs are free in solution or are tethered to distinct membranes, assembly requires catalysis by HOPS, the vacuolar SM and tethering complex. The Rab Ypt7 and vacuole lipids together allosterically activate the bound HOPS for catalyzing SNARE assembly, even if none of the SNAREs are membrane bound. HOPS-dependent fusion between proteoliposomes bearing R- or Qa-SNAREs shows a strict requirement for Ypt7 on the R-SNARE proteoliposomes but not on the Qa-SNARE proteoliposomes. This asymmetry is reflected in the strikingly different capacity of Ypt7 in cis to either the R- or Qa-SNARE to stimulate SNARE complex assembly. Membrane-bound Ypt7 activates HOPS to catalyze 4-SNARE complex assembly when it is on the same membrane as the R-SNARE but not the Qa-SNARE, thus explaining the asymmetric need for Ypt7 for fusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Torng
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03755
| | - Hongki Song
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03755
| | - William Wickner
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03755
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10
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Resolving kinetic intermediates during the regulated assembly and disassembly of fusion pores. Nat Commun 2020; 11:231. [PMID: 31932584 PMCID: PMC6957489 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-14072-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The opening of a fusion pore during exocytosis creates the first aqueous connection between the lumen of a vesicle and the extracellular space. Soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) mediate the formation of these dynamic structures, and their kinetic transitions are tightly regulated by accessory proteins at the synapse. Here, we utilize two single molecule approaches, nanodisc-based planar bilayer electrophysiology and single-molecule FRET, to address the relationship between SNARE complex assembly and rapid (micro-millisecond) fusion pore transitions, and to define the role of accessory proteins. Synaptotagmin (syt) 1, a major Ca2+-sensor for synaptic vesicle exocytosis, drove the formation of an intermediate: committed trans-SNARE complexes that form large, stable pores. Once open, these pores could only be closed by the action of the ATPase, NSF. Time-resolved measurements revealed that NSF-mediated pore closure occurred via a complex ‘stuttering’ mechanism. This simplified system thus reveals the dynamic formation and dissolution of fusion pores. SNAREs mediate the formation of a fusion pore during exocytosis which connects the lumen of a vesicle with the extracellular space. Here, authors use single molecule approaches to define the role of synaptotagmin 1 and NSF in synaptic pore formation and dissolution.
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11
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Khounlo R, Hawk BJ, Shin YK. EPR Lineshape Analysis to Investigate the SNARE Folding Intermediates. Methods Mol Biol 2019; 1860:33-51. [PMID: 30317497 PMCID: PMC6429964 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-8760-3_3] [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] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
SNARE complex formation, which is believed to drive intracellular membrane fusion, transits through multiple conformational states along the membrane fusion pathway. The SNARE intermediates are biologically important because they serve as targets for fusion regulators and clostridial neurotoxins. Spin-labeling EPR has contributed significantly to the understanding of the structures and the dynamics of SNARE intermediates. In particular, the EPR lineshape analysis, which is highly sensitive to protein conformational changes such as the local coil-to-helix transition, has revealed the sequential compacting steps leading to formation of the highly stable four-helix bundle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Khounlo
- Iowa State University, Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics & Molecular Biology, 4138 Molecular Biology Building, 2437 Pammel Dr, Ames, IA 50011,
| | - Brenden J.D. Hawk
- Iowa State University, Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics & Molecular Biology, 4138 Molecular Biology Building, 2437 Pammel Dr, Ames, IA 50011,
| | - Yeon-Kyun Shin
- Iowa State University, Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics & Molecular Biology, 4152 Molecular Biology Building, 2437 Pammel Dr, Ames, IA 50011,
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12
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Simulations Reveal Multiple Intermediates in the Unzipping Mechanism of Neuronal SNARE Complex. Biophys J 2018; 115:1470-1480. [PMID: 30268539 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2018.08.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Revised: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The assembling of the soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor protein complex is a fundamental step in neuronal exocytosis, and it has been extensively studied in the last two decades. Yet, many details of this process remain inaccessible with the current experimental space and time resolution. Here, we study the zipping mechanism of the soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor complex computationally by using a coarse-grained model. We explore the different pathways available and analyze their dependence on the computational model employed. We reveal and characterize multiple intermediate states, in agreement with previous experimental findings. We use our model to analyze the influence of single-residue mutations on the thermodynamics of the folding process.
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13
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Kweon DH, Kong B, Shin YK. Search for a minimal machinery for Ca 2+-triggered millisecond neuroexocytosis. Neuroscience 2018; 420:4-11. [PMID: 30056116 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2018.07.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Revised: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Neurons have the remarkable ability to release a batch of neurotransmitters into the synapse immediately after an action potential. This signature event is made possible by the simultaneous fusion of a number of synaptic vesicles to the plasma membrane upon Ca2+ entry into the active zone. The outcomes of both cellular and in vitro studies suggest that soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive-factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) and synaptotagmin 1 (Syt1) constitute the minimal fast exocytosis machinery in the neuron. Syt1 is the major Ca2+-sensor and orchestrates the synchronous start of individual vesicle fusion events while SNAREs are the membrane fusion machinery that dictates the kinetics of each single fusion event. The data also suggest that Ca2+-bound Syt1 is involved in the upstream docking step which leads to an increase in the number of fusion events or the size of the release, leaving the SNARE complex alone to carry out membrane fusion by themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dae-Hyuk Kweon
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do 16419, South Korea
| | - Byoungjae Kong
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do 16419, South Korea
| | - Yeon-Kyun Shin
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, United States.
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14
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Rizo J. Mechanism of neurotransmitter release coming into focus. Protein Sci 2018; 27:1364-1391. [PMID: 29893445 DOI: 10.1002/pro.3445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Research for three decades and major recent advances have provided crucial insights into how neurotransmitters are released by Ca2+ -triggered synaptic vesicle exocytosis, leading to reconstitution of basic steps that underlie Ca2+ -dependent membrane fusion and yielding a model that assigns defined functions for central components of the release machinery. The soluble N-ethyl maleimide sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) syntaxin-1, SNAP-25, and synaptobrevin-2 form a tight SNARE complex that brings the vesicle and plasma membranes together and is key for membrane fusion. N-ethyl maleimide sensitive factor (NSF) and soluble NSF attachment proteins (SNAPs) disassemble the SNARE complex to recycle the SNAREs for another round of fusion. Munc18-1 and Munc13-1 orchestrate SNARE complex formation in an NSF-SNAP-resistant manner by a mechanism whereby Munc18-1 binds to synaptobrevin and to a self-inhibited "closed" conformation of syntaxin-1, thus forming a template to assemble the SNARE complex, and Munc13-1 facilitates assembly by bridging the vesicle and plasma membranes and catalyzing opening of syntaxin-1. Synaptotagmin-1 functions as the major Ca2+ sensor that triggers release by binding to membrane phospholipids and to the SNAREs, in a tight interplay with complexins that accelerates membrane fusion. Many of these proteins act as both inhibitors and activators of exocytosis, which is critical for the exquisite regulation of neurotransmitter release. It is still unclear how the actions of these various proteins and multiple other components that control release are integrated and, in particular, how they induce membrane fusion, but it can be expected that these fundamental questions can be answered in the near future, building on the extensive knowledge already available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josep Rizo
- Departments of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, 75390
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15
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Hastoy B, Clark A, Rorsman P, Lang J. Fusion pore in exocytosis: More than an exit gate? A β-cell perspective. Cell Calcium 2017; 68:45-61. [PMID: 29129207 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Revised: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Secretory vesicle exocytosis is a fundamental biological event and the process by which hormones (like insulin) are released into the blood. Considerable progress has been made in understanding this precisely orchestrated sequence of events from secretory vesicle docked at the cell membrane, hemifusion, to the opening of a membrane fusion pore. The exact biophysical and physiological regulation of these events implies a close interaction between membrane proteins and lipids in a confined space and constrained geometry to ensure appropriate delivery of cargo. We consider some of the still open questions such as the nature of the initiation of the fusion pore, the structure and the role of the Soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive-factor Attachment protein REceptor (SNARE) transmembrane domains and their influence on the dynamics and regulation of exocytosis. We discuss how the membrane composition and protein-lipid interactions influence the likelihood of the nascent fusion pore forming. We relate these factors to the hypothesis that fusion pore expansion could be affected in type-2 diabetes via changes in disease-related gene transcription and alterations in the circulating lipid profile. Detailed characterisation of the dynamics of the fusion pore in vitro will contribute to understanding the larger issue of insulin secretory defects in diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benoit Hastoy
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK.
| | - Anne Clark
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
| | - Patrik Rorsman
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK; Metabolic Research, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Goteborg, Medicinaregatan 11, S-41309 Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Jochen Lang
- Laboratoire de Chimie et Biologie des Membranes et Nano-objets (CBMN), CNRS UMR 5248, Université de Bordeaux, Allée de Geoffrey St Hilaire, 33600 Pessac, France.
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16
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Khounlo R, Kim J, Yin L, Shin YK. Botulinum Toxins A and E Inflict Dynamic Destabilization on t-SNARE to Impair SNARE Assembly and Membrane Fusion. Structure 2017; 25:1679-1686.e5. [PMID: 29033286 PMCID: PMC5685167 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2017.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Revised: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Botulinum toxins (BoNTs) A and E block neurotransmitter release by specifically cleaving the C- terminal ends of SNAP-25, a plasma membrane SNARE protein. Here, we find that SNAP-25A and E, the cleavage products of BoNT A and E, respectively, terminate membrane fusion via completely different mechanisms. Combined studies of single-molecule FRET and single-vesicle fusion assays reveal that SNAP-25E is incapable of supporting SNARE pairing and thus, vesicle docking. In contrast, SNAP-25A facilitates robust SNARE pairing and vesicle docking with somewhat reduced SNARE zippering, which leads to severe impairment of fusion pore opening. The electron paramagnetic resonance results show that the discrepancy between SNAP-25A and E might stem from the extent of the dynamic destabilization of the t-SNARE core at the N-terminal half, which plays a pivotal role in nucleating SNARE complex formation. Thus, the results provide insights into the structure/dynamics-based mechanism by which BoNT A and E impair membrane fusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Khounlo
- Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics & Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Jaewook Kim
- Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics & Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Linxiang Yin
- Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics & Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Yeon-Kyun Shin
- Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics & Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA.
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17
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D'Agostino M, Risselada HJ, Lürick A, Ungermann C, Mayer A. A tethering complex drives the terminal stage of SNARE-dependent membrane fusion. Nature 2017; 551:634-638. [PMID: 29088698 DOI: 10.1038/nature24469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Membrane fusion in eukaryotic cells mediates the biogenesis of organelles, vesicular traffic between them, and exo- and endocytosis of important signalling molecules, such as hormones and neurotransmitters. Distinct tasks in intracellular membrane fusion have been assigned to conserved protein systems. Tethering proteins mediate the initial recognition and attachment of membranes, whereas SNARE (soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor) protein complexes are considered as the core fusion engine. SNARE complexes provide mechanical energy to distort membranes and drive them through a hemifusion intermediate towards the formation of a fusion pore. This last step is highly energy-demanding. Here we combine the in vivo and in vitro fusion of yeast vacuoles with molecular simulations to show that tethering proteins are critical for overcoming the final energy barrier to fusion pore formation. SNAREs alone drive vacuoles only into the hemifused state. Tethering proteins greatly increase the volume of SNARE complexes and deform the site of hemifusion, which lowers the energy barrier for pore opening and provides the driving force. Thereby, tethering proteins assume a crucial mechanical role in the terminal stage of membrane fusion that is likely to be conserved at multiple steps of vesicular traffic. We therefore propose that SNAREs and tethering proteins should be considered as a single, non-dissociable device that drives fusion. The core fusion machinery may then be larger and more complex than previously thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo D'Agostino
- Département de Biochimie, Université de Lausanne, Chemin des Boveresses 155, CH-1066 Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Herre Jelger Risselada
- Georg-August University, Department of Theoretical Physics, Göttingen, Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, D-37077 Göttingen, Germany.,Leibniz Institute of Surface Modification, Chemical Department, Permoserstrasse 15, D-04318, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anna Lürick
- University of Osnabrück, Department of Biology/Chemistry, Barbarastrasse 13, D-49076 Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Christian Ungermann
- University of Osnabrück, Department of Biology/Chemistry, Barbarastrasse 13, D-49076 Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Andreas Mayer
- Département de Biochimie, Université de Lausanne, Chemin des Boveresses 155, CH-1066 Epalinges, Switzerland
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18
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Wang T, Li L, Hong W. SNARE proteins in membrane trafficking. Traffic 2017; 18:767-775. [PMID: 28857378 DOI: 10.1111/tra.12524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Revised: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
SNAREs are the core machinery mediating membrane fusion. In this review, we provide an update on the recent progress on SNAREs regulating membrane fusion events, especially the more detailed fusion processes dissected by well-developed biophysical methods and in vitro single molecule analysis approaches. We also briefly summarize the relevant research from Chinese laboratories and highlight the significant contributions on our understanding of SNARE-mediated membrane trafficking from scientists in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuanlao Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Liangcheng Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Wanjin Hong
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore, Singapore
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19
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Zhang Y. Energetics, kinetics, and pathway of SNARE folding and assembly revealed by optical tweezers. Protein Sci 2017; 26:1252-1265. [PMID: 28097727 PMCID: PMC5477538 DOI: 10.1002/pro.3116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) are universal molecular engines that drive membrane fusion. Particularly, synaptic SNAREs mediate fast calcium-triggered fusion of neurotransmitter-containing vesicles with plasma membranes for synaptic transmission, the basis of all thought and action. During membrane fusion, complementary SNAREs located on two apposed membranes (often called t- and v-SNAREs) join together to assemble into a parallel four-helix bundle, releasing the energy to overcome the energy barrier for fusion. A long-standing hypothesis suggests that SNAREs act like a zipper to draw the two membranes into proximity and thereby force them to fuse. However, a quantitative test of this SNARE zippering hypothesis was hindered by difficulties to determine the energetics and kinetics of SNARE assembly and to identify the relevant folding intermediates. Here, we first review different approaches that have been applied to study SNARE assembly and then focus on high-resolution optical tweezers. We summarize the folding energies, kinetics, and pathways of both wild-type and mutant SNARE complexes derived from this new approach. These results show that synaptic SNAREs assemble in four distinct stages with different functions: slow N-terminal domain association initiates SNARE assembly; a middle domain suspends and controls SNARE assembly; and rapid sequential zippering of the C-terminal domain and the linker domain directly drive membrane fusion. In addition, the kinetics and pathway of the stagewise assembly are shared by other SNARE complexes. These measurements prove the SNARE zippering hypothesis and suggest new mechanisms for SNARE assembly regulated by other proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongli Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of MedicineYale UniversityNew HavenConnecticut06511
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20
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Rouck J, Krapf J, Roy J, Huff H, Das A. Recent advances in nanodisc technology for membrane protein studies (2012-2017). FEBS Lett 2017; 591:2057-2088. [PMID: 28581067 PMCID: PMC5751705 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.12706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2017] [Revised: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Historically, the main barrier to membrane protein investigations has been the tendency of membrane proteins to aggregate (due to their hydrophobic nature), in aqueous solution as well as on surfaces. The introduction of biomembrane mimetics has since stimulated momentum in the field. One such mimetic, the nanodisc (ND) system, has proved to be an exceptional system for solubilizing membrane proteins. Herein, we critically evaluate the advantages and imperfections of employing nanodiscs in biophysical and biochemical studies. Specifically, we examine the techniques that have been modified to study membrane proteins in nanodiscs. Techniques discussed here include fluorescence microscopy, solution-state/solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance, electron microscopy, small-angle X-ray scattering, and several mass spectroscopy methods. Newer techniques such as SPR, charge-sensitive optical detection, and scintillation proximity assays are also reviewed. Lastly, we cover how nanodiscs are advancing nanotechnology through nanoplasmonic biosensing, lipoprotein-nanoplatelets, and sortase-mediated labeling of nanodiscs.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Rouck
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, Urbana IL 61802, USA
| | - John Krapf
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, Urbana IL 61802, USA
| | - Jahnabi Roy
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, Urbana IL 61802, USA
| | - Hannah Huff
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, Urbana IL 61802, USA
| | - Aditi Das
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, Urbana IL 61802, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, Urbana IL 61802, USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science, Division of Nutritional Sciences, Neuroscience Program and Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, Urbana IL 61802, USA
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21
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Abstract
Membrane proteins play a most important part in metabolism, signaling, cell motility, transport, development, and many other biochemical and biophysical processes which constitute fundamentals of life on the molecular level. Detailed understanding of these processes is necessary for the progress of life sciences and biomedical applications. Nanodiscs provide a new and powerful tool for a broad spectrum of biochemical and biophysical studies of membrane proteins and are commonly acknowledged as an optimal membrane mimetic system that provides control over size, composition, and specific functional modifications on the nanometer scale. In this review we attempted to combine a comprehensive list of various applications of nanodisc technology with systematic analysis of the most attractive features of this system and advantages provided by nanodiscs for structural and mechanistic studies of membrane proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilia G Denisov
- Department of Biochemistry and Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois , Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Stephen G Sligar
- Department of Biochemistry and Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois , Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
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22
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Kweon DH, Kong B, Shin YK. Hemifusion in Synaptic Vesicle Cycle. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:65. [PMID: 28360835 PMCID: PMC5352705 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2016] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In the neuron, early neurotransmitters are released through the fusion pore prior to the complete vesicle fusion. It has been thought that the fusion pore is a gap junction-like structure made of transmembrane domains (TMDs) of soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive-factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins. However, evidence has accumulated that lipid mixing occurs prior to the neurotransmitter release through the fusion pore lined predominantly with lipids. To explain these observations, the hemifusion, a membrane structure in which two bilayers are partially merged, has emerged as a key step preceding the formation of the fusion pore. Furthermore, the hemifusion appears to be the bona fide intermediate step not only for the synaptic vesicle cycle, but for a wide range of membrane remodeling processes, such as viral membrane fusion and endocytotic membrane fission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dae-Hyuk Kweon
- Department of Genetic Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Sungkyunkwan University Suwon, South Korea
| | - Byoungjae Kong
- Department of Genetic Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Sungkyunkwan University Suwon, South Korea
| | - Yeon-Kyun Shin
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology, Iowa State University Ames, IA, USA
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23
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Complexin splits the membrane-proximal region of a single SNAREpin. Biochem J 2016; 473:2219-24. [PMID: 27222590 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20160339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Complexin (Cpx) is thought to be a major regulator of soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor-attachment protein receptor (SNARE)-dependent membrane fusion. Although the inhibition of membrane fusion by Cpx has been frequently reported, its structural basis has been elusive and an anticipated disruption of the SNARE core has never been observed. In the present study, to mimic the natural environment, we assembled a single SNAREpin between two nanodisc membrane patches. Single-molecule FRET (smFRET) detects a large conformational change, specifically at the C-terminal half, whereas no conformational change is observed at the N-terminal half. Our results suggest that Cpx splits the C-terminal half of the SNARE core at least 10 Å (1 Å=0.1 nm), whereby inhibiting further progression of SNARE zippering and membrane fusion.
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24
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Abstract
SNARE (soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor) proteins are a highly conserved set of membrane-associated proteins that mediate intracellular membrane fusion. Cognate SNAREs from two separate membranes zipper to facilitate membrane apposition and fusion. Though the stable post-fusion conformation of SNARE complex has been extensively studied with biochemical and biophysical means, the pathway of SNARE zippering has been elusive. In this review, we describe some recent progress in understanding the pathway of SNARE zippering. We particularly focus on the half-zippered intermediate, which is most likely to serve as the main point of regulation by the auxiliary factors.
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25
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Gadila SKG, Kim K. Cargo trafficking from the trans-Golgi network towards the endosome. Biol Cell 2016; 108:205-18. [DOI: 10.1111/boc.201600001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2016] [Revised: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kyoungtae Kim
- Department of Biology; Missouri State University; Springfield MO 65807 USA
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26
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Ma L, Kang Y, Jiao J, Rebane AA, Cha HK, Xi Z, Qu H, Zhang Y. α-SNAP Enhances SNARE Zippering by Stabilizing the SNARE Four-Helix Bundle. Cell Rep 2016; 15:531-539. [PMID: 27068468 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2016.03.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Revised: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Intracellular membrane fusion is mediated by dynamic assembly and disassembly of soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) attachment protein (SNAP) receptors (SNAREs). α-SNAP guides NSF to disassemble SNARE complexes after membrane fusion. Recent experiments showed that α-SNAP also dramatically enhances SNARE assembly and membrane fusion. How α-SNAP is involved in these opposing activities is not known. Here, we examine the effect of α-SNAP on the stepwise assembly of the synaptic SNARE complex using optical tweezers. We found that α-SNAP destabilized the linker domain (LD) of the SNARE complex but stabilized its C-terminal domain (CTD) through a conformational selection mechanism. In contrast, α-SNAP minimally affected assembly of the SNARE N-terminal domain (NTD), indicating that α-SNAP barely bound the partially assembled trans-SNARE complex. Thus, α-SNAP recognizes the folded CTD for SNARE disassembly with NSF and subtly modulates membrane fusion by altering the stabilities of the SNARE CTD and LD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Ma
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Yuhao Kang
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Junyi Jiao
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Integrated Graduate Program in Physical and Engineering Biology, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Aleksander A Rebane
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Integrated Graduate Program in Physical and Engineering Biology, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Physics, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Hyo Keun Cha
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Zhiqun Xi
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Hong Qu
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Yongli Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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27
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Abstract
Extensive research has yielded crucial insights into the mechanism of neurotransmitter release, and working models for the functions of key proteins involved in release. The SNAREs Syntaxin-1, Synaptobrevin, and SNAP-25 play a central role in membrane fusion, forming SNARE complexes that bridge the vesicle and plasma membranes and that are disassembled by NSF-SNAPs. Exocytosis likely starts with Syntaxin-1 folded into a self-inhibited closed conformation that binds to Munc18-1. Munc13s open Syntaxin-1, orchestrating SNARE complex assembly in an NSF-SNAP-resistant manner together with Munc18-1. In the resulting primed state, with partially assembled SNARE complexes, fusion is inhibited by Synaptotagmin-1 and Complexins, which also perform active functions in release. Upon influx of Ca(2+), Synaptotagmin-1 activates fast release, likely by relieving the inhibition caused by Complexins and cooperating with the SNAREs in bringing the membranes together. Although alternative models exist and fundamental questions remain unanswered, a definitive description of the basic release mechanism may be available soon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josep Rizo
- Departments of Biophysics, Biochemistry, and Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390;
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28
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Ma L, Rebane AA, Yang G, Xi Z, Kang Y, Gao Y, Zhang Y. Munc18-1-regulated stage-wise SNARE assembly underlying synaptic exocytosis. eLife 2015; 4. [PMID: 26701912 PMCID: PMC4744192 DOI: 10.7554/elife.09580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2015] [Accepted: 12/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptic-soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment receptor (SNARE) proteins couple their stage-wise folding/assembly to rapid exocytosis of neurotransmitters in a Munc18-1-dependent manner. The functions of the different assembly stages in exocytosis and the role of Munc18-1 in SNARE assembly are not well understood. Using optical tweezers, we observed four distinct stages of assembly in SNARE N-terminal, middle, C-terminal, and linker domains (or NTD, MD, CTD, and LD, respectively). We found that SNARE layer mutations differentially affect SNARE assembly. Comparison of their effects on SNARE assembly and on exocytosis reveals that NTD and CTD are responsible for vesicle docking and fusion, respectively, whereas MD regulates SNARE assembly and fusion. Munc18-1 initiates SNARE assembly and structures t-SNARE C-terminus independent of syntaxin N-terminal regulatory domain (NRD) and stabilizes the half-zippered SNARE complex dependent upon the NRD. Our observations demonstrate distinct functions of SNARE domains whose assembly is intimately chaperoned by Munc18-1. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.09580.001 Plants, animals and other eukaryotes transport many large molecules within their cells inside membrane-bound packages called vesicles. These vesicles can fuse with the membrane of a target compartment in the cell to deliver their contents inside, or fuse with the cell’s membrane to release the contents outside of the cell. Membrane fusion is carried out by a group of proteins called SNAREs. These proteins are embedded on the membranes of both the vesicle and its target, and they bind to each other to form a tight complex. This complex docks the vesicle to the target and then acts like a “zipper” to pull the two membranes close enough to fuse. The best-studied SNARE proteins act in nerve cells and fuse vesicles to the cell’s membrane in order to release molecules called neurotransmitters. This process is essential for communication between nerve cells, and relies on a protein called Munc18-1. However, it is not well understood how SNARE proteins assemble into the complex and how Munc18-1 regulates this process. Ma et al. have now used a tool called “optical tweezers” to pull an assembled SNARE complex apart in the laboratory and then observe how it folds and assembles in a step-by-step process. These experiments showed that the complex assembled in four stages and not three as has been reported in previous work. SNARE proteins are made up of four parts called domains, and Ma et al. observed that the N-terminal domains were the first to bind to each other. Next, the binding progressed to the middle domain, then to the C-terminal domain and finally to the linker domain. An intermediate, half-zippered form was also observed. Ma et al. next analysed each domain in more detail and found that the N-terminal and C-terminal domains drive the docking of vesicles to the target membrane, the middle domain is crucial for assembling the SNARE complex correctly, and all three domains regulate the fusing of the membranes. Further experiments showed that Munc18-1 promoted the assembly of new SNARE complexes and stabilized the half-zippered form, rather than stabilizing the complex after it had fully assembled. This study will provide a new tool to examine many other proteins that regulate SNARE assembly, and a basis to understand the role of SNARE proteins in brain activity. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.09580.002
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Ma
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, United States
| | - Aleksander A Rebane
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, United States.,Integrated Graduate Program in Physical and Engineering Biology, Yale University, New Haven, United States.,Department of Physics, Yale University, New Haven, United States
| | - Guangcan Yang
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, United States.,Department of Physics, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhiqun Xi
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, United States
| | - Yuhao Kang
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, United States
| | - Ying Gao
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, United States
| | - Yongli Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, United States
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29
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Yang Y, Kim J, Kim HY, Ryoo N, Lee S, Kim Y, Rhim H, Shin YK. Amyloid-β Oligomers May Impair SNARE-Mediated Exocytosis by Direct Binding to Syntaxin 1a. Cell Rep 2015; 12:1244-51. [PMID: 26279571 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2015.07.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2015] [Revised: 06/17/2015] [Accepted: 07/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is closely associated with synaptic dysfunction, and thus current treatments often aim to stimulate neurotransmission to improve cognitive impairment. Whereas the formation of the soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) complex is essential for synaptic transmission, the correlation between SNAREs and AD neuropathology is unknown. Here, we report that intracellular amyloid-β (Aβ) oligomers directly inhibit SNARE-mediated exocytosis by impairing SNARE complex formation. We observe abnormal reduction of SNARE complex levels in the brains of APP/PS1 transgenic (TG) mice compared to age-matched wild-types. We demonstrate that Aβ oligomers block SNARE complex assembly through the direct interaction with a target membrane (t)-SNARE syntaxin 1a in vitro. Furthermore, the results of the in vitro single-vesicle content-mixing assay reveal that Aβ oligomers inhibit SNARE-mediated fusion pores. Thus, our study identifies a potential molecular mechanism by which intracellular Aβ oligomers hamper SNARE-mediated exocytosis, likely leading to AD-associated synaptic dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoosoo Yang
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 136-791, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaewook Kim
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 136-791, Republic of Korea; Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Hye Yun Kim
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 136-791, Republic of Korea
| | - Nayeon Ryoo
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 136-791, Republic of Korea
| | - Sejin Lee
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 136-791, Republic of Korea
| | - YoungSoo Kim
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 136-791, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyewhon Rhim
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 136-791, Republic of Korea; Department of Neuroscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejon 305-333, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yeon-Kyun Shin
- Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 136-791, Republic of Korea; Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA.
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Lou X, Shin J, Yang Y, Kim J, Shin YK. Synaptotagmin-1 is an antagonist for Munc18-1 in SNARE zippering. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:10535-43. [PMID: 25716321 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.631341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In neuroexocytosis, SNAREs and Munc18-1 may consist of the minimal membrane fusion machinery. Consistent with this notion, we observed, using single molecule fluorescence assays, that Munc18-1 stimulates SNARE zippering and SNARE-dependent lipid mixing in the absence of a major Ca(2+) sensor synaptotagmin-1 (Syt1), providing the structural basis for the conserved function of Sec1/Munc18 proteins in exocytosis. However, when full-length Syt1 is present, no enhancement of SNARE zippering and no acceleration of Ca(2+)-triggered content mixing by Munc18-1 are observed. Thus, our results show that Syt1 acts as an antagonist for Munc18-1 in SNARE zippering and fusion pore opening. Although the Sec1/Munc18 family may serve as part of the fusion machinery in other exocytotic pathways, Munc18-1 may have evolved to play a different role, such as regulating syntaxin-1a in neuroexocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochu Lou
- From the Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011 and
| | - Jaeil Shin
- From the Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011 and
| | - Yoosoo Yang
- the Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Hwarangno 14-gil 6, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 136-791, South Korea
| | - Jaewook Kim
- the Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Hwarangno 14-gil 6, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 136-791, South Korea
| | - Yeon-Kyun Shin
- From the Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011 and the Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Hwarangno 14-gil 6, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 136-791, South Korea
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