SNAREs can promote complete fusion and hemifusion as alternative outcomes

Differential SNARE chaperoning by Munc13-1 and Munc18-1 dictates fusion pore fate at the release site

The regulated release of chemical messengers is crucial for cell-to-cell communication; abnormalities in which impact coordinated human body function. During vesicular secretion, multiple SNARE complexes assemble at the release site, leading to fusion pore opening. How membrane fusion regulators act on heterogeneous SNARE populations to assemble fusion pores in a timely and synchronized manner, is unknown. Here, we demonstrate the role of SNARE chaperones Munc13-1 and Munc18-1 in rescuing individual nascent fusion pores from their diacylglycerol lipid-mediated inhibitory states. At the onset of membrane fusion, Munc13-1 clusters multiple SNARE complexes at the release site and synchronizes release events, while Munc18-1 stoichiometrically interacts with trans-SNARE complexes to enhance N- to C-terminal zippering. When both Munc proteins are present simultaneously, they differentially access dynamic trans-SNARE complexes to regulate pore properties. Overall, Munc proteins' direct action on fusion pore assembly indicates their role in controlling quantal size during vesicular secretion.

SNARE Proteins in Synaptic Vesicle Fusion

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.

The neuronal calcium sensor Synaptotagmin-1 and SNARE proteins cooperate to dilate fusion pores

All membrane fusion reactions proceed through an initial fusion pore, including calcium-triggered release of neurotransmitters and hormones. Expansion of this small pore to release cargo is energetically costly and regulated by cells, but the mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, we show that the neuronal/exocytic calcium sensor Synaptotagmin-1 (Syt1) promotes expansion of fusion pores induced by SNARE proteins. Pore dilation relied on calcium-induced insertion of the tandem C2 domain hydrophobic loops of Syt1 into the membrane, previously shown to reorient the C2 domain. Mathematical modelling suggests that C2B reorientation rotates a bound SNARE complex so that it exerts force on the membranes in a mechanical lever action that increases the height of the fusion pore, provoking pore dilation to offset the bending energy penalty. We conclude that Syt1 exerts novel non-local calcium-dependent mechanical forces on fusion pores that dilate pores and assist neurotransmitter and hormone release.

Structural Roles for the Juxtamembrane Linker Region and Transmembrane Region of Synaptobrevin 2 in Membrane Fusion

Formation of the trans-SNARE complex is believed to generate a force transfer to the membranes to promote membrane fusion, but the underlying mechanism remains elusive. In this study, we show that helix-breaking and/or length-increasing insertions in the juxtamembrane linker region of synaptobrevin-2 exert diverse effects on liposome fusion, in a manner dependent on the insertion position relative to the two conserved tryptophan residues (W⁸⁹/W⁹⁰). Helical extension of synaptobrevin-2 to W⁸⁹/W⁹⁰ is a prerequisite for initiating membrane merger. The transmembrane region of synaptobrevin-2 enables proper localization of W⁸⁹/W⁹⁰ at the membrane interface to gate force transfer. Besides, our data indicate that the SNARE regulatory components Munc18-1 and Munc13-1 impose liposome fusion strong demand on tight coupling between the SNARE motif and the transmembrane region of synaptobrevin-2.

SNAREs, tethers and SM proteins: how to overcome the final barriers to membrane fusion?

Physiological membrane vesicles are built to separate reaction spaces in a stable manner, even when they accidentally collide or are kept in apposition by spatial constraints in the cell. This requires a natural resistance to fusion and mixing of their content, which originates from substantial energetic barriers to membrane fusion [1]. To facilitate intracellular membrane fusion reactions in a controlled manner, proteinaceous fusion machineries have evolved. An important open question is whether protein fusion machineries actively pull the fusion reaction over the present free energy barriers, or whether they rather catalyze fusion by lowering those barriers. At first sight, fusion proteins such as SNARE complexes and viral fusion proteins appear to act as nano-machines, which mechanically transduce force to the membranes and thereby overcome the free energy barriers [2,3]. Whether fusion proteins additionally alter the free energy landscape of the fusion reaction via catalytic roles is less obvious. This is a question that we shall discuss in this review, with particular focus on the influence of the eukaryotic SNARE-dependent fusion machinery on the final step of the reaction, the formation and expansion of the fusion pore.

Synergistic actions of v-SNARE transmembrane domains and membrane-curvature modifying lipids in neurotransmitter release

Vesicle fusion is mediated by assembly of SNARE proteins between opposing membranes. While previous work suggested an active role of SNARE transmembrane domains (TMDs) in promoting membrane merger (Dhara et al., 2016), the underlying mechanism remained elusive. Here, we show that naturally-occurring v-SNARE TMD variants differentially regulate fusion pore dynamics in mouse chromaffin cells, indicating TMD flexibility as a mechanistic determinant that facilitates transmitter release from differentially-sized vesicles. Membrane curvature-promoting phospholipids like lysophosphatidylcholine or oleic acid profoundly alter pore expansion and fully rescue the decelerated fusion kinetics of TMD-rigidifying VAMP2 mutants. Thus, v-SNARE TMDs and phospholipids cooperate in supporting membrane curvature at the fusion pore neck. Oppositely, slowing of pore kinetics by the SNARE-regulator complexin-2 withstands the curvature-driven speeding of fusion, indicating that pore evolution is tightly coupled to progressive SNARE complex formation. Collectively, TMD-mediated support of membrane curvature and SNARE force-generated membrane bending promote fusion pore formation and expansion.

Modification of Extracellular Vesicles by Fusion with Liposomes for the Design of Personalized Biogenic Drug Delivery Systems

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are recognized as nature's own carriers to transport macromolecules throughout the body. Hijacking this endogenous communication system represents an attractive strategy for advanced drug delivery. However, efficient and reproducible loading of EVs with therapeutic or imaging agents still represents a bottleneck for their use as a drug delivery system. Here, we developed a method for modifying cell-derived EVs through their fusion with liposomes containing both membrane and soluble cargoes. The fusion of EVs with functionalized liposomes was triggered by polyethylene glycol (PEG) to create smart biosynthetic hybrid vectors. This versatile method proved to be efficient to enrich EVs with exogenous lipophilic or hydrophilic compounds, while preserving their intrinsic content and biological properties. Hybrid EVs improved cellular delivery efficiency of a chemotherapeutic compound by a factor of 3-4, as compared to the free drug or the drug-loaded liposome precursor. On one side, this method allows the biocamouflage of liposomes by enriching their lipid bilayer and inner compartment with biogenic molecules. On the other side, the proposed fusion strategy enables efficient EV loading, and the pharmaceutical development of EVs with adaptable activity and drug delivery property.

Vesicular stomatitis virus G protein transmembrane region is crucial for the hemi-fusion to full fusion transition

Viral fusion proteins are essential for enveloped virus infection. These proteins mediate fusion between the virus envelope and host cellular membrane to release the viral genome into cells. Vesicular stomatitis virus G (VSV G) protein is a typical type III viral fusion protein. To study the mechanism of VSV G protein mediated membrane fusion, we set up a cell-cell fusion system in which cells are marked by different fluorescent proteins. Taking advantage of this system, we performed real-time recording and quantitative analysis of the cell fusion mediated by VSV G. We found that the time scale required for VSV G mediated cell-cell fusion was approximately 1–2 minutes. Next, we specifically examined the function of the transmembrane (TM) region of VSV G protein in membrane fusion by replacing the TM region with those of other fusion proteins. The TM region replacements dramatically impaired VSV G protein function in the cell-cell fusion assay and diminished VSV G mediated lentivirus and recombinant VSV infection efficiency. Further experiments implied that the TM region played a role in the transition from hemi-fusion to full fusion. Several residues within the TM region were identified as important for membrane fusion. Overall, our findings unraveled the important function of the TM region in VSV G mediated viral fusion.

Dynamics and number of trans-SNARE complexes determine nascent fusion pore properties

The fusion pore is the first crucial intermediate formed during exocytosis, yet little is known regarding the mechanisms that determine the size and kinetic properties of these transient structures¹. Here, we reduced the number of available SNAREs in neurons and observed changes in transmitter release suggestive of alterations in fusion pores. To address this, we employed reconstituted fusion assays using nanodiscs to trap pores in their initial open state. Optical measurements revealed that increasing the number of SNARE complexes enhanced the rate of release from single pores, and enabled the escape of larger cargos. To determine whether this was due to changes in nascent pore size versus stability, we developed a novel approach, based on nanodiscs and planar lipid bilayer electrophysiology, that affords μsec time resolution at the single event level. Remarkably, both parameters were affected by SNARE copy number. Increasing the number of v-SNAREs per nanodisc from three to five caused a two-fold increase in pore size and decreased the rate of pore closure by more than three orders of magnitude. Moreover, trans-SNARE pairing was highly dynamic: flickering nascent pores closed upon addition of a v-SNARE fragment, revealing that the fully assembled, stable, SNARE complex does not form at this stage of exocytosis. Finally, a deletion at the base of the SNARE complex, that mimics the action of botulinum neurotoxin A, dramatically reduced fusion pore stability. In summary, trans-SNARE complexes are dynamic, and the number of SNAREs recruited to drive fusion determine fundamental properties of individual pores.

Fusion pore in exocytosis: More than an exit gate? A β-cell perspective

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.

v-SNARE function in chromaffin cells

Vesicle fusion is elementary for intracellular trafficking and release of signal molecules, thus providing the basis for diverse forms of intercellular communication like hormonal regulation or synaptic transmission. A detailed characterization of the mechanisms underlying exocytosis is key to understand how the nervous system integrates information and generates appropriate responses to stimuli. The machinery for vesicular release employs common molecular players in different model systems including neuronal and neuroendocrine cells, in particular members of the SNARE (soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptors) protein family, Sec1/Munc18-like proteins, and other accessory factors. To achieve temporal precision and speed, excitable cells utilize specialized regulatory proteins like synaptotagmin and complexin, whose interplay putatively synchronizes vesicle fusion and enhances stimulus-secretion coupling. In this review, we aim to highlight recent progress and emerging views on the molecular mechanisms, by which constitutively forming SNAREpins are organized in functional, tightly regulated units for synchronized release. Specifically, we will focus on the role of vesicle associated membrane proteins, also referred to as vesicular SNAREs, in fusion and rapid cargo discharge. We will further discuss the functions of SNARE regulators during exocytosis and focus on chromaffin cell as a model system of choice that allows for detailed structure-function analyses and direct measurements of vesicle fusion under precise control of intracellular [Ca]i.

SNARE-Mediated Single-Vesicle Fusion Events with Supported and Freestanding Lipid Membranes

In vitro single-vesicle fusion assays are important tools to analyze the details of SNARE-mediated fusion processes. In this study, we employed planar pore-spanning membranes (PSMs) prepared on porous silicon substrates with large pore diameters of 5 μm, allowing us to compare the process of vesicle docking and fusion on the supported parts of the PSMs (s-PSMs) with that on the freestanding membrane parts (f-PSM) under the exact same experimental conditions. The PSMs harbor the t-SNARE ΔN49-complex to investigate the dynamics and fusogenicity of single large unilamellar vesicles doped with the v-SNARE synaptobrevin 2 by means of spinning-disc confocal microscopy with a time resolution of 10 ms. Our results demonstrate that vesicles docked to the s-PSM were fully immobile, whereas those docked to the f-PSM were mobile with a mean diffusion coefficient of 0.42 μm²/s. Despite the different dynamics of the vesicles on the two membrane types, similar fusion kinetics were observed, giving rise to a common fusion mechanism. Further investigations of individual lipid mixing events on the s-PSMs revealed semi-stable post-fusion structures.

A Central Small Amino Acid in the VAMP2 Transmembrane Domain Regulates the Fusion Pore in Exocytosis

Exocytosis depends on cytosolic domains of SNARE proteins but the function of the transmembrane domains (TMDs) in membrane fusion remains controversial. The TMD of the SNARE protein synaptobrevin2/VAMP2 contains two highly conserved small amino acids, G₁₀₀ and C₁₀₃, in its central portion. Substituting G₁₀₀ and/or C₁₀₃ with the β-branched amino acid valine impairs the structural flexibility of the TMD in terms of α-helix/β-sheet transitions in model membranes (measured by infrared reflection-absorption or evanescent wave spectroscopy) during increase in protein/lipid ratios, a parameter expected to be altered by recruitment of SNAREs at fusion sites. This structural change is accompanied by reduced membrane fluidity (measured by infrared ellipsometry). The G₁₀₀V/C₁₀₃V mutation nearly abolishes depolarization-evoked exocytosis (measured by membrane capacitance) and hormone secretion (measured biochemically). Single-vesicle optical (by TIRF microscopy) and biophysical measurements of ATP release indicate that G₁₀₀V/C₁₀₃V retards initial fusion-pore opening, hinders its expansion and leads to premature closure in most instances. We conclude that the TMD of VAMP2 plays a critical role in membrane fusion and that the structural mobility provided by the central small amino acids is crucial for exocytosis by influencing the molecular re-arrangements of the lipid membrane that are necessary for fusion pore opening and expansion.

SM protein Munc18-2 facilitates transition of Syntaxin 11-mediated lipid mixing to complete fusion for T-lymphocyte cytotoxicity

The atypical lipid-anchored Syntaxin 11 (STX11) and its binding partner, the Sec/Munc (SM) protein Munc18-2, facilitate cytolytic granule release by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and natural killer (NK) cells. Patients carrying mutations in these genes develop familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, a primary immunodeficiency characterized by impaired lytic granule exocytosis. However, whether a SNARE such as STX11, which lacks a transmembrane domain, can support membrane fusion in vivo is uncertain, as is the precise role of Munc18-2 during lytic granule exocytosis. Here, using a reconstituted "flipped" cell-cell fusion assay, we show that lipid-anchored STX11 and its cognate SNARE proteins mainly support exchange of lipids but not cytoplasmic content between cells, resembling hemifusion. Strikingly, complete fusion is stimulated by addition of wild-type Munc18-2 to the assay, but not of Munc18-2 mutants with abnormal STX11 binding. Our data reveal that Munc18-2 is not just a chaperone of STX11 but also directly contributes to complete membrane merging by promoting SNARE complex assembly. These results further support the concept that SM proteins in general are part of the core fusion machinery. This fusion mechanism likely contributes to other cell-type-specific exocytic processes such as platelet secretion.

A finite-element model of granular serotonin exocytosis

Signaling molecules stored in cellular granules serve a broad range of functional purposes. Serotonin, for example, is involved in the regulation of behavior, cognitive function, and hemostasis. Understanding serotonin release from platelet granules can provide valuable fundamental information about the exocytotic process and help elucidate potential abnormalities of diseased platelets. Experimentally, carbon-fiber microelectrochemistry has been utilized to characterize the dynamic behavior of serotonin secretion from individual platelets. The objectives of this study were (1) to develop a finite-element model of the carbon-fiber microelectrode experiment and (2) to predict the effect of the postulated core-halo granule microstructure and rate of fusion pore expansion on the resulting amperometric signal. The model confirmed that the core-halo microstructure is consistent with the observed amperometric spike profiles. Further, it showed that the ratio of pore diameter to granule diameter, rather than the rate of pore expansion, dictates the profile shape. Understanding the driving forces for chemical messenger delivery from platelet granules has implications for understanding abnormalities in diseased platelets as well as other exocytotic cells.

Steric hindrance of SNARE transmembrane domain organization impairs the hemifusion-to-fusion transition

SNAREs fuse membranes in several steps. Trans-SNARE complexes juxtapose membranes, induce hemifused stalk structures, and open the fusion pore. A recent penetration model of fusion proposed that SNAREs force the hydrophilic C-termini of their transmembrane domains through the hydrophobic core of the membrane(s). In contrast, the indentation model suggests that the C-termini open the pore by locally compressing and deforming the stalk. Here we test these models in the context of yeast vacuole fusion. Addition of small hydrophilic tags renders bilayer penetration by the C-termini energetically unlikely. It preserves fusion activity, however, arguing against the penetration model. Addition of large protein tags to the C-termini permits SNARE activation, trans-SNARE pairing, and hemifusion but abolishes pore opening. Fusion proceeds if the tags are detached from the membrane by a hydrophilic spacer or if only one side of the trans-SNARE complex carries a protein tag. Thus, both sides of a trans-SNARE complex can drive pore opening. Our results are consistent with an indentation model in which multiple SNARE C-termini cooperate in opening the fusion pore by locally deforming the inner leaflets.

Neurodegenerative disorders share common features of "loss of function" states of a proposed mechanism of nervous system functions

Neurodegenerative disorders are highly heterogeneous for the locations affected and the nature of the aggregated proteins. Nearly 80% of the neurodegenerative disorders occur sporadically, indicating that certain factors must combine to initiate the degenerative changes. The contiguous extension of degenerative changes from cell to cell, the association with viral fusion proteins, loss of dendritic spines (postsynaptic terminals), and the eventual degeneration of cells indicate the presence of a unique mechanism for inter-cellular spread of pathology. It is not known whether the "loss of function" states of the still unknown normal nervous system operations can lead to neurodegenerative disorders. Here, the possible loss of function states of a proposed normal nervous system function are examined. A reversible inter-postsynaptic functional LINK (IPL) mechanism, consisting of transient inter-postsynaptic membrane (IPM) hydration exclusion and partial to complete IPM hemifusions, was proposed as a critical step necessary for the binding process and the induction of internal sensations of higher brain functions. When various findings from different neurodegenerative disorders are systematically organized and examined, disease features match the effects of loss of function states of different IPLs. Changes in membrane composition, enlargement of dendritic spines by dopamine and viral fusion proteins are capable of altering the IPLs to form IPM fusion. The latter can lead to the observed lateral spread of pathology, inter-neuronal cytoplasmic content mixing and abnormal protein aggregation. Since both the normal mechanism of reversible IPM hydration exclusion and the pathological process of transient IPM fusion can evade detection, testing their occurrence may provide preventive and therapeutic opportunities for these disorders.

Inhibition of the Hantavirus Fusion Process by Predicted Domain III and Stem Peptides from Glycoprotein Gc

Hantaviruses can cause hantavirus pulmonary syndrome or hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome in humans. To enter cells, hantaviruses fuse their envelope membrane with host cell membranes. Previously, we have shown that the Gc envelope glycoprotein is the viral fusion protein sharing characteristics with class II fusion proteins. The ectodomain of class II fusion proteins is composed of three domains connected by a stem region to a transmembrane anchor in the viral envelope. These fusion proteins can be inhibited through exogenous fusion protein fragments spanning domain III (DIII) and the stem region. Such fragments are thought to interact with the core of the fusion protein trimer during the transition from its pre-fusion to its post-fusion conformation. Based on our previous homology model structure for Gc from Andes hantavirus (ANDV), here we predicted and generated recombinant DIII and stem peptides to test whether these fragments inhibit hantavirus membrane fusion and cell entry. Recombinant ANDV DIII was soluble, presented disulfide bridges and beta-sheet secondary structure, supporting the in silico model. Using DIII and the C-terminal part of the stem region, the infection of cells by ANDV was blocked up to 60% when fusion of ANDV occurred within the endosomal route, and up to 95% when fusion occurred with the plasma membrane. Furthermore, the fragments impaired ANDV glycoprotein-mediated cell-cell fusion, and cross-inhibited the fusion mediated by the glycoproteins from Puumala virus (PUUV). The Gc fragments interfered in ANDV cell entry by preventing membrane hemifusion and pore formation, retaining Gc in a non-resistant homotrimer stage, as described for DIII and stem peptide inhibitors of class II fusion proteins. Collectively, our results demonstrate that hantavirus Gc shares not only structural, but also mechanistic similarity with class II viral fusion proteins, and will hopefully help in developing novel therapeutic strategies against hantaviruses.

The infection of cells by enveloped viruses involves the fusion of membranes between viruses and cells. This process is mediated by viral fusion proteins that have been grouped into at least three structural classes. Membrane-enveloped hantaviruses are worldwide spread pathogens that can cause human disease with mortality rates reaching up to 50%, however, neither a therapeutic drug nor preventive measures are currently available. Here we show that the entrance of Andes hantavirus into target cells can be blocked by fragments derived from the Gc fusion protein that are analogous to inhibitory fragments of class II fusion proteins. The Gc fragments acted directly over the viral fusion process, preventing its late stages. Together, our data demonstrate that the hantavirus Gc protein shares not only structural, but also mechanistic similarity with class II fusion proteins, suggesting its evolution from a common or related ancestral fusion protein. Furthermore, the results outline novel approaches for therapeutic intervention.

The Central Polybasic Region of the Soluble SNARE (Soluble N-Ethylmaleimide-sensitive Factor Attachment Protein Receptor) Vam7 Affects Binding to Phosphatidylinositol 3-Phosphate by the PX (Phox Homology) Domain

The yeast vacuole requires four SNAREs to trigger membrane fusion including the soluble Qc-SNARE Vam7. The N-terminal PX domain of Vam7 binds to the lipid phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (PI3P) and the tethering complex HOPS (homotypic fusion and vacuole protein sorting complex), whereas the C-terminal SNARE motif forms SNARE complexes. Vam7 also contains an uncharacterized middle domain that is predicted to be a coiled-coil domain with multiple helices. One helix contains a polybasic region (PBR) composed of Arg-164, Arg-168, Lys-172, Lys-175, Arg-179, and Lys-186. Polybasic regions are often associated with nonspecific binding to acidic phospholipids including phosphoinositides. Although the PX (phox homology) domain alone binds PI3P, we theorized that the Vam7 PBR could bind to additional acidic phospholipids enriched at fusion sites. Mutating each of the basic residues in the PBR to an alanine (Vam7-6A) led to attenuated vacuole fusion. The defective fusion of Vam7-6A was due in part to inefficient association with its cognate SNAREs and HOPS, yet the overall vacuole association of Vam7-6A was similar to wild type. Experiments testing the binding of Vam7 to specific signaling lipids showed that mutating the PBR to alanines augmented binding to PI3P. The increased binding to PI3P by Vam7-6A likely contributed to the observed wild type levels of vacuole association, whereas protein-protein interactions were diminished. PI3P binding was inhibited when the PX domain mutant Y42A was introduced into Vam7-6A to make Vam7-7A. Thus the Vam7 PBR affects PI3P binding by the PX domain and in turn affects binding to SNAREs and HOPS to support efficient fusion.

v-SNARE transmembrane domains function as catalysts for vesicle fusion

Vesicle fusion is mediated by an assembly of SNARE proteins between opposing membranes, but it is unknown whether transmembrane domains (TMDs) of SNARE proteins serve mechanistic functions that go beyond passive anchoring of the force-generating SNAREpin to the fusing membranes. Here, we show that conformational flexibility of synaptobrevin-2 TMD is essential for efficient Ca(2+)-triggered exocytosis and actively promotes membrane fusion as well as fusion pore expansion. Specifically, the introduction of helix-stabilizing leucine residues within the TMD region spanning the vesicle's outer leaflet strongly impairs exocytosis and decelerates fusion pore dilation. In contrast, increasing the number of helix-destabilizing, ß-branched valine or isoleucine residues within the TMD restores normal secretion but accelerates fusion pore expansion beyond the rate found for the wildtype protein. These observations provide evidence that the synaptobrevin-2 TMD catalyzes the fusion process by its structural flexibility, actively setting the pace of fusion pore expansion.

Direct observation of intermediate states in model membrane fusion

We introduce a novel assay for membrane fusion of solid supported membranes on silica beads and on coverslips. Fusion of the lipid bilayers is induced by bringing an optically trapped bead in contact with the coverslip surface while observing the bead's thermal motion with microsecond temporal and nanometer spatial resolution using a three-dimensional position detector. The probability of fusion is controlled by the membrane tension on the particle. We show that the progression of fusion can be monitored by changes in the three-dimensional position histograms of the bead and in its rate of diffusion. We were able to observe all fusion intermediates including transient fusion, formation of a stalk, hemifusion and the completion of a fusion pore. Fusion intermediates are characterized by axial but not lateral confinement of the motion of the bead and independently by the change of its rate of diffusion due to the additional drag from the stalk-like connection between the two membranes. The detailed information provided by this assay makes it ideally suited for studies of early events in pure lipid bilayer fusion or fusion assisted by fusogenic molecules.

Synaptobrevin transmembrane domain influences exocytosis by perturbing vesicle membrane curvature

Membrane fusion requires that nearly flat lipid bilayers deform into shapes with very high curvature. This makes membrane bending a critical force in determining fusion mechanisms. A lipid bilayer will bend spontaneously when material is distributed asymmetrically between its two monolayers, and its spontaneous curvature (C0) will influence the stability of curved fusion intermediates. Prior work on Ca(2+)-triggered exocytosis revealed that fusion pore lifetime (τ) varies with vesicle content (Q), and showed that this relation reflects membrane bending energetics. Lipids that alter C0 change the dependence of τ on Q. These results suggested that the greater stability of an initial exocytotic fusion pore associated with larger vesicles reflects the need to bend more membrane during fusion pore dilation. In this study, we explored the possibility of manipulating C0 by mutating the transmembrane domain (TMD) of the vesicle membrane protein synaptobrevin 2 (syb2). Amperometric measurements of exocytosis in mouse chromaffin cells revealed that syb2 TMD mutations altered the relation between τ and Q. The effects of these mutations showed a striking periodicity, changing sign as the structural perturbation moved through the inner and outer leaflets. Some glycine and charge mutations also influenced the dependence of τ on Q in a manner consistent with expected changes in C0. These results suggest that side chains in the syb2 TMD influence the kinetics of exocytosis by perturbing the packing of the surrounding lipids. The present results support the view that membrane bending occurs during fusion pore expansion rather than during fusion pore formation. This supports the view of an initial fusion pore through two relatively flat membranes formed by protein.

Protein-Protein Interactions of Viroporins in Coronaviruses and Paramyxoviruses: New Targets for Antivirals?

Viroporins are members of a rapidly growing family of channel-forming small polypeptides found in viruses. The present review will be focused on recent structural and protein-protein interaction information involving two viroporins found in enveloped viruses that target the respiratory tract; (i) the envelope protein in coronaviruses and (ii) the small hydrophobic protein in paramyxoviruses. Deletion of these two viroporins leads to viral attenuation in vivo, whereas data from cell culture shows involvement in the regulation of stress and inflammation. The channel activity and structure of some representative members of these viroporins have been recently characterized in some detail. In addition, searches for protein-protein interactions using yeast-two hybrid techniques have shed light on possible functional roles for their exposed cytoplasmic domains. A deeper analysis of these interactions should not only provide a more complete overview of the multiple functions of these viroporins, but also suggest novel strategies that target protein-protein interactions as much needed antivirals. These should complement current efforts to block viroporin channel activity.

A continuum model of docking of synaptic vesicle to plasma membrane

Neurotransmitter release from neuronal terminals is governed by synaptic vesicle fusion. Vesicles filled with transmitters are docked at the neuronal membrane by means of the SNARE machinery. After a series of events leading up to the fusion pore formation, neurotransmitters are released into the synaptic cleft. In this paper, we study the mechanics of the docking process. A continuum model is used to determine the deformation of a spherical vesicle and a plasma membrane, under the influence of SNARE-machinery forces and electrostatic repulsion. Our analysis provides information on the variation of in-plane stress in the membranes, which is known to affect fusion. Also, a simple model is proposed to study hemifusion.

Endoplasmatic reticulum shaping by generic mechanisms and protein-induced spontaneous curvature

The endoplasmatic reticulum (ER) comprises flattened vesicles (cisternae) with worm holes dubbed with ribosomes coexisting with a network of interconnected tubes which can extend to the cell periphery or even penetrate nerve axons. The coexisting topologies enclose a continuous luminal space. The complex ER topology is specifically controlled by a group of ER-shaping proteins often called reticulons (discovered by the group of Tom Rapoport). They include atlastin, reticulon, REEP and the MT severing protein spastin. A generic ER shape controlling factor is the necessity to maximize the area-to-volume ratio of ER membranes in the highly crowded cytoplasmic space. I present a model of the ER-shaping function of the reticulons based on the Helfrich bending elasticity concept of soft shell shape changes. Common structural motifs of the reticulons are hydrophobic sequences forming wedge shaped hairpins which penetrate the lipid bilayer of the cell membranes. The wedge-like hydrophobic anchors can both induce the high curvature of the tubular ER fraction and ensure the preferred distribution of the reticulons along the tubules. Tubular junctions may be stabilized by the reticulons forming two forceps twisted by 90°. The ER extensions to the cell periphery and the axons are mediated by coupling of the tubes to the microtubules which is mediated by REEP and spastin. At the end I present a model of the tension driven homotype fusion of ER-membranes by atlastin, based on analogies to the SNARE-complexin-SNARE driven heterotype fusion process.

The lipid composition and physical properties of the yeast vacuole affect the hemifusion-fusion transition

Yeast vacuole fusion requires the formation of SNARE bundles between membranes. Although the function of vacuolar SNAREs is controlled in part by regulatory lipids, the exact role of the membrane in regulating fusion remains unclear. Because SNAREs are membrane-anchored and transmit the force required for fusion to the bilayer, we hypothesized that the lipid composition and curvature of the membrane aid in controlling fusion. Here, we examined the effect of altering membrane fluidity and curvature on the functionality of fusion-incompetent SNARE mutants that are thought to generate insufficient force to trigger the hemifusion-fusion transition. The hemifusion-fusion transition was inhibited by disrupting the 3Q:1R stoichiometry of SNARE bundles with the mutant SNARE Vam7p(Q283R) . Similarly, replacing the transmembrane domain of the syntaxin homolog Vam3p with a lipid anchor allowed hemifusion, but not content mixing. Hemifusion-stalled reactions containing either of the SNARE mutants were stimulated to fuse with chlorpromazine, an amphipathic molecule that alters membrane fluidity and curvature. The activity of mutant SNAREs was also rescued by the overexpression of SNAREs, thus multiplying the force transferred to the membrane. Thus, we conclude that either increasing membrane fluidity, or multiplying SNARE-generated energy restored the fusogenicity of mutant SNAREs that are stalled at hemifusion. We also found that regulatory lipids differentially modulated the complex formation of wild-type SNAREs. Together, these data indicate that the physical properties and the lipid composition of the membrane affect the function of SNAREs in promoting the hemifusion-fusion transition.

Rapid synaptic vesicle endocytosis in cone photoreceptors of salamander retina

Following synaptic vesicle exocytosis, neurons retrieve the fused membrane by a process of endocytosis to provide a supply of vesicles for subsequent release and maintain the presynaptic active zone. Rod and cone photoreceptors use a specialized structure called the synaptic ribbon that enables them to sustain high rates of neurotransmitter release. They must also employ mechanisms of synaptic vesicle endocytosis capable of keeping up with release. While much is known about endocytosis at another retinal ribbon synapse, that of the goldfish Mb1 bipolar cell, less is known about endocytosis in photoreceptors. We used capacitance recording techniques to measure vesicle membrane fusion and retrieval in photoreceptors from salamander retinal slices. We found that application of brief depolarizing steps (<100 ms) to cones evoked exocytosis followed by rapid endocytosis with a time constant ∼250 ms. In some cases, the capacitance trace overshot the baseline, indicating excess endocytosis. Calcium had no effect on the time constant, but enhanced excess endocytosis resulting in a faster rate of membrane retrieval. Surprisingly, endocytosis was unaffected by blockers of dynamin, suggesting that cone endocytosis is dynamin independent. This contrasts with synaptic vesicle endocytosis in rods, which was inhibited by the dynamin inhibitor dynasore and GTPγS introduced through the patch pipette, suggesting that the two photoreceptor types employ distinct pathways for vesicle retrieval. The fast kinetics of synaptic vesicle endocytosis in photoreceptors likely enables these cells to maintain a high rate of transmitter release, allowing them to faithfully signal changes in illumination to second-order neurons.

Molecular machines governing exocytosis of synaptic vesicles

Calcium-dependent exocytosis of synaptic vesicles mediates the release of neurotransmitters. Important proteins in this process have been identified such as the SNAREs, synaptotagmins, complexins, Munc18 and Munc13. Structural and functional studies have yielded a wealth of information about the physiological role of these proteins. However, it has been surprisingly difficult to arrive at a unified picture of the molecular sequence of events from vesicle docking to calcium-triggered membrane fusion. Using mainly a biochemical and biophysical perspective, we briefly survey the molecular mechanisms in an attempt to functionally integrate the key proteins into the emerging picture of the neuronal fusion machine.

Membrane raft redox signalosomes in endothelial cells

Membrane rafts (MRs) are specialized microdomains in the cell membrane with an altered lipid composition. Upon various stimulations, MRs can be clustered to aggregate or recruit NADPH oxidase sub-units and related proteins to form MR redox signalosomes in the membrane of cells like vascular endothelial cells (ECs). Multiple protein complexes, like MR redox signalosomes, are now considered to play a crucial role in the regulation of cell function and in the development of different cell dysfunctions. To form such redox signalosomes, ceramide will be generated from the hydrolysis of sphingomyelin by lysosomal acid sphingomyelinase that has been translocated via lysosome fusion to the MR area. In this brief review, current information is provided to help understand the occurrence and function of MR redox signalosomes. This may increase enthusiasm of the scientific community for further studies on the molecular mechanisms and the functional significance of forming such MR redox signalosomes.

Residue-specific side-chain packing determines the backbone dynamics of transmembrane model helices

The transmembrane domains (TMDs) of membrane-fusogenic proteins contain an overabundance of β-branched residues. In a previous effort to systematically study the relation among valine content, fusogenicity, and helix dynamics, we developed model TMDs that we termed LV-peptides. The content and position of valine in LV-peptides determine their fusogenicity and backbone dynamics, as shown experimentally. Here, we analyze their conformational dynamics and the underlying molecular forces using molecular-dynamics simulations. Our study reveals that backbone dynamics is correlated with the efficiency of side-chain to side-chain van der Waals packing between consecutive turns of the helix. Leu side chains rapidly interconvert between two rotameric states, thus favoring contacts to its i±3 and i±4 neighbors. Stereochemical restraints acting on valine side chains in the α-helix force both β-substituents into an orientation where i,i±3 interactions are less favorable than i,i±4 interactions, thus inducing a local packing deficiency at VV3 motifs. We provide a quantitative molecular model to explain the relationship among chain connectivity, side-chain mobility, and backbone flexibility. We expect that this mechanism also defines the backbone flexibility of natural TMDs.

Docking and fast fusion of synaptobrevin vesicles depends on the lipid compositions of the vesicle and the acceptor SNARE complex-containing target membrane

The influence of the lipid environment on docking and fusion of synaptobrevin 2 (Syb2) vesicles with target SNARE complex membranes was examined in a planar supported membrane fusion assay with high time-resolution. Previously, we showed that approximately eight SNARE complexes are required to fuse phosphatidylcholine (PC) and cholesterol model membranes in ∼20 ms. Here we present experiments, in which phosphatidylserine (PS) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) were added to mixtures of PC/cholesterol in different proportions in the Syb2 vesicle membranes only or in both the supported bilayers and the Syb2 vesicles. We found that PS and PE both reduce the probability of fusion and that this reduction is fully accounted for by the lipid composition in the vesicle membrane. However, the docking efficiency increases when the PE content in the vesicle (and target membrane) is increased from 0 to 30%. The fraction of fast-activating SNARE complexes decreases with increasing PE content. As few as three SNARE complexes are sufficient to support membrane fusion when at least 5% PS and 10% PE are present in both membranes or 5% and 30% PE are present in the vesicle membrane only. Despite the smaller number of required SNAREs, the SNARE activation and fusion rates are almost as fast as previously reported in reconstituted PC/cholesterol bilayers, i.e., ~10 and ~20 ms, respectively [corrected].

Direct visualization of large and protein-free hemifusion diaphragms

Fusion of cellular membranes is a ubiquitous biological process requiring remodeling of two phospholipid bilayers. We believe it is very likely that merging of membranes proceeds via similar sequential intermediates. Contacting membranes form a stalk between the proximal leaflets that expands radially into an hemifusion diaphragm (HD) and subsequently open to a fusion pore. Although considered to be a key intermediate in fusion, direct experimental verification of this structure is difficult due to its transient nature. Using confocal fluorescence microscopy we have investigated the fusion of giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) containing phosphatidylserine and fluorescent virus derived transmembrane peptides or membrane proteins in the presence of divalent cations. Time-resolved imaging revealed that fusion was preceded by displacement of peptides and fluorescent lipid analogs from the GUV-GUV adhesion region. A detailed analysis of this area being several mum in size revealed that peptides were completely sequestered as expected for an HD. Lateral distribution of lipid analogs was consistent with formation of an HD but not with the presence of two adherent bilayers. Formation and size of the HD were dependent on lipid composition and peptide concentration.

The Na+/H+ exchanger Nhx1p regulates the initiation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae vacuole fusion

Nhx1p is a Na+(K+)/H+ antiporter localized at the vacuolar membrane of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Nhx1p regulates the acidification of cytosol and vacuole lumen, and is involved in membrane traffic from late endosomes to the vacuole. Deletion of the gene leads to aberrant vacuolar morphology and defective vacuolar protein sorting. These phenotypes are hallmarks of malfunctioning vacuole homeostasis and indicate that membrane fusion is probably altered. Here, we investigated the role of Nhx1p in the regulation of homotypic vacuole fusion. Vacuoles isolated from nhx1Δ yeast showed attenuated fusion. Assays configured to differentiate between the first round of fusion and ongoing rounds showed that nhx1Δ vacuoles were only defective in the first round of fusion, suggesting that Nhx1p regulates an early step in the pathway. Although fusion was impaired on nhx1Δ vacuoles, SNARE complex formation was indistinguishable from wild-type vacuoles. Fusion could be rescued by adding the soluble SNARE Vam7p. However, Vam7p only activated the first round of nhx1Δ vacuole fusion. Once fusion was initiated, nhx1Δ vacuoles appeared behave in a wild-type manner. Complementation studies showed that ion transport function was required for Nhx1p-mediated support of fusion. In addition, the weak base chloroquine restored nhx1Δ fusion to wild-type levels. Together, these data indicate that Nhx1p regulates the initiation of fusion by controlling vacuole lumen pH.

Arg206 of SNAP-25 is essential for neuroexocytosis at the Drosophila melanogaster neuromuscular junction

An analysis of SNAP-25 isoform sequences indicates that there is a highly conserved arginine residue (198 in vertebrates, 206 in the genus Drosophila) within the C-terminal region, which is cleaved by botulinum neurotoxin A, with consequent blockade of neuroexocytosis. The possibility that it may play an important role in the function of the neuroexocytosis machinery was tested at neuromuscular junctions of Drosophila melanogaster larvae expressing SNAP-25 in which Arg206 had been replaced by alanine. Electrophysiological recordings of spontaneous and evoked neurotransmitter release under different conditions as well as testing for the assembly of the SNARE complex indicate that this residue, which is at the P1′ position of the botulinum neurotoxin A cleavage site, plays an essential role in neuroexocytosis. Computer graphic modelling suggests that this arginine residue mediates protein–protein contacts within a rosette of SNARE complexes that assembles to mediate the fusion of synaptic vesicles with the presynaptic plasma membrane.

Reevaluating herpes simplex virus hemifusion

Membrane fusion induced by enveloped viruses proceeds through the actions of viral fusion proteins. Once activated, viral fusion proteins undergo large protein conformational changes to execute membrane fusion. Fusion is thought to proceed through a "hemifusion" intermediate in which the outer membrane leaflets of target and viral membranes mix (lipid mixing) prior to fusion pore formation, enlargement, and completion of fusion. Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) requires four glycoproteins-glycoprotein D (gD), glycoprotein B (gB), and a heterodimer of glycoprotein H and L (gH/gL)-to accomplish fusion. gD is primarily thought of as a receptor-binding protein and gB as a fusion protein. The role of gH/gL in fusion has remained enigmatic. Despite experimental evidence that gH/gL may be a fusion protein capable of inducing hemifusion in the absence of gB, the recently solved crystal structure of HSV-2 gH/gL has no structural homology to any known viral fusion protein. We found that in our hands, all HSV entry proteins-gD, gB, and gH/gL-were required to observe lipid mixing in both cell-cell- and virus-cell-based hemifusion assays. To verify that our hemifusion assay was capable of detecting hemifusion, we used glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-linked hemagglutinin (HA), a variant of the influenza virus fusion protein, HA, known to stall the fusion process before productive fusion pores are formed. Additionally, we found that a mutant carrying an insertion within the short gH cytoplasmic tail, 824L gH, is incapable of executing hemifusion despite normal cell surface expression. Collectively, our findings suggest that HSV gH/gL may not function as a fusion protein and that all HSV entry glycoproteins are required for both hemifusion and fusion. The previously described gH 824L mutation blocks gH/gL function prior to HSV-induced lipid mixing.

Negative potentials across biological membranes promote fusion by class II and class III viral proteins

Fusion of virions pseudotyped with a class II, SFV E1 or VEEV E, or a class III protein, VSV G is promoted by negative potentials and hindered by positive potentials across the target cell. Hemifusion is independent of polarity. Reversion of hemifused membranes into two distinct ones is responsible for voltage-dependence and inhibition of fusion.

Voltage was investigated as a factor in the fusion of virions. Virions, pseudotyped with a class II, SFV E1 or VEEV E, or a class III protein, VSV G, were prepared with GFP within the core and a fluorescent lipid. This allowed both hemifusion and fusion to be monitored. Voltage clamping the target cell showed that fusion is promoted by a negative potential and hindered by a positive potential. Hemifusion occurred independent of polarity. Lipid dye movement, in the absence of content mixing, ceased before complete transfer for positive potentials, indicating that reversion of hemifused membranes into two distinct membranes is responsible for voltage dependence and inhibition of fusion. Content mixing quickly followed lipid dye transfer for a negative potential, providing a direct demonstration that hemifusion induced by class II and class III viral proteins is a functional intermediate of fusion. In the hemifused state, virions that fused exhibited slower lipid transfer than did nonfusing virions. All viruses with class II or III fusion proteins may utilize voltage to achieve infection.

Structural features of fusogenic model transmembrane domains that differentially regulate inner and outer leaflet mixing in membrane fusion

The transmembrane domains of fusion proteins are known to be important for their fusogenic activity. In an effort to systematically investigate the structure/function relationships of transmembrane domains we had previously designed LV-peptides that mimic natural fusion protein TMDs in their ability to drive fusion after incorporation into liposomal membranes. Here, we investigate the impact of different structural features of LV-peptide TMDs on inner and outer leaflet mixing. We find that fusion driven by the helical peptides involves a hemifusion intermediate as previously seen for natural fusion proteins. Helix backbone dynamics enhances fusion by selectively promoting outer leaflet mixing. Furthermore, the hydrophobic length of the peptides as well as covalent attachment of long acyl chains affects outer and inner leaflet mixing to different extents. Different structural features of transmembrane domains thus appear to differentially influence the rearrangements of lipids in fusion initiation and the hemifusion-to-fusion transition. The relevance of these findings in respect to the function of natural fusion proteins is discussed.

Molecular mechanism of the synaptotagmin-SNARE interaction in Ca2+-triggered vesicle fusion

In neurons, SNAREs, synaptotagmin, and other factors catalyze Ca²⁺-triggered fusion of vesicles with the plasma membrane. The molecular mechanism of this process remains an enigma, especially regarding the interaction between synaptotagmin and SNAREs. Here we characterized this interaction by single-molecule fluorescence microscopy and crystallography. The two rigid Ca²⁺-binding domains of synaptotagmin 3 undergo large relative motions in solution. Interaction with SNARE complex amplifies a particular state of the two domains that is further enhanced by Ca²⁺. This state is represented by the first SNARE-induced Ca²⁺-bound crystal structure of a synaptotagmin fragment containing both domains. The arrangement of the Ca²⁺-binding loops of this structure of synaptotagmin 3 matches that of SNARE-bound synaptotagmin 1, suggesting a conserved feature of synaptotagmins. The loops resemble the membrane-interacting loops of certain viral fusion proteins in the postfusion state, suggesting unexpected similarities between both fusion systems.

Single Molecule Measurements of Interaction Free Energies Between the Proteins Within Binary and Ternary SNARE Complexes

We use an Atomic Force Microscope based single molecule measurements to evaluate the activation free energy in the interaction of SNARE proteins syntaxin 1A, SNAP25B and synaptobrevin 2 which regulate intracellular fusion of vesicles with target membranes. The dissociation rate of the binary syntaxin-synaptobrevin and the ternary syntaxin-SNAP25B-synaptobrevin complex was measured from the rupture force distribution as a function of the rate of applied force. The temperature dependence of the spontaneous dissociation rate was used to obtain the activation energy to the transition state of 19.8 +/- 3.5 kcal/mol = 33 +/- 6 k(B)T and 25.7 +/- 3.0 kcal/mol = 43 +/- 5 k(B)T for the binary and ternary complex, respectively. They are consistent with those measured previously for the ternary complex in lipid membranes and are of order expected for bilayer fusion and pore formation. The DeltaG was 12.4-16.6 kcal/mol = 21-28 k(B)T and 13.8-18.0 kcal/mol = 23-30 k(B)T for the binary and ternary complex, respectively. The ternary complex was more stable by 1.4 kcal/mol = 2.3 k(B)T, consistent with the spontaneous dissociation rates. The higher adhesion energies and smaller molecular extensions measured with SNAP25B point to its possible unique and important physiological role in tethering/docking the vesicle in closer proximity to the plasma membrane and increasing the probability for fusion completion.

Existence of exocytotic hemifusion intermediates with a lifetime of up to seconds in type II pneumocytes

Exocytosis proceeds through prefusion stages such as hemifusion, but hemifusion is still an elusive intermediate of unknown duration. Using darkfield and fluorescence microscopy in ATII (alveolar type II) cells containing large secretory vesicles (LBs; lamellar bodies), we show that exocytotic fusion events were accompanied by a mostly biphasic SLID (scattered light intensity decrease) originating from the vesicle border. Correlation with the diffusional behaviour of fluorescence markers for either content or membrane mixing revealed that the onset of the fast second phase of SLID corresponded to fusion pore formation, which was followed by vesicle swelling. In contrast, a slow first phase of SLID preceded pore formation considerably but could still be accompanied by diffusion of farnesylated DsRed, an inner plasma membrane leaflet marker, or Nile Red. We conclude that hemifusion is an exocytotic intermediate that may last for several seconds. SLID is a new, non-invasive approach by which a prefusion phase, including hemifusion, can be continuously recorded and distinguished from fusion pore formation and postfusion vesicle swelling.

Model of SNARE-mediated membrane adhesion kinetics

SNARE proteins are conserved components of the core fusion machinery driving diverse membrane adhesion and fusion processes in the cell. In many cases micron-sized membranes adhere over large areas before fusion. Reconstituted in vitro assays have helped isolate SNARE mechanisms in small membrane adhesion-fusion and are emerging as powerful tools to study large membrane systems by use of giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs). Here we model SNARE-mediated adhesion kinetics in SNARE-reconstituted GUV-GUV or GUV-supported bilayer experiments. Adhesion involves many SNAREs whose complexation pulls apposing membranes into contact. The contact region is a tightly bound rapidly expanding patch whose growth velocity v(patch) increases with SNARE density Gamma(snare). We find three patch expansion regimes: slow, intermediate, fast. Typical experiments belong to the fast regime where v(patch) ~ (Gamma(snare)(2/3) depends on SNARE diffusivities and complexation binding constant. The model predicts growth velocities ~10 - 300 microm/s. The patch may provide a close contact region where SNAREs can trigger fusion. Extending the model to a simple description of fusion, a broad distribution of fusion times is predicted. Increasing SNARE density accelerates fusion by boosting the patch growth velocity, thereby providing more complexes to participate in fusion. This quantifies the notion of SNAREs as dual adhesion-fusion agents.

Investigation of SNARE-Mediated Membrane Fusion Mechanism Using Atomic Force Microscopy

Membrane fusion is driven by specialized proteins that reduce the free energy penalty for the fusion process. In neurons and secretory cells, soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor-attachment protein (SNAP) receptors (SNAREs) mediate vesicle fusion with the plasma membrane during vesicular content release. Although, SNAREs have been widely accepted as the minimal machinery for membrane fusion, the specific mechanism for SNARE-mediated membrane fusion remains an active area of research. Here, we summarize recent findings based on force measurements acquired in a novel experimental system that uses atomic force microscope (AFM) force spectroscopy to investigate the mechanism(s) of membrane fusion and the role of SNAREs in facilitating membrane hemifusion during SNARE-mediated fusion. In this system, protein-free and SNARE-reconstituted lipid bilayers are formed on opposite (trans) substrates and the forces required to induce membrane hemifusion and fusion or to unbind single v-/t-SNARE complexes are measured. The obtained results provide evidence for a mechanism by which the pulling force generated by interacting trans-SNAREs provides critical proximity between the membranes and destabilizes the bilayers at fusion sites by broadening the hemifusion energy barrier and consequently making the membranes more prone to fusion.

SNAREs in neurons – beyond synaptic vesicle exocytosis (Review)

The paradigm for soluble N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) function in mammalian cells has been built on advancements in our understanding of structural and biochemical aspects of synaptic vesicle exocytosis, involving specifically synaptobrevin, syntaxin 1 and SNAP25. Interestingly, a good number of SNAREs which are not directly involved in neurotransmitter exocytosis, are either brain-enriched or have distinct neuron-specific functions. Syntaxins 12/13 regulates glutamate receptor recycling via its interaction with neuron-enriched endosomal protein of 21 kDa (NEEP21). TI-VAMP/VAMP7 is essential for neuronal morphogenesis and mediates the vesicular transport processes underlying neurite outgrowth. Ykt6 is highly enriched in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus and is targeted to a novel compartment in neurons. Syntaxin 16 has a moderate expression level in many tissues, but is rather enriched in the brain. Here, we review and discuss the neuron-specific physiology and possible pathology of these and other (such as SNAP-29 and Vti1a-beta) members of the SNARE family.

Interaction and conformational dynamics of membrane-spanning protein helices

Within 1 or 2 decades, the reputation of membrane-spanning alpha-helices has changed dramatically. Once mostly regarded as dull membrane anchors, transmembrane domains are now recognized as major instigators of protein-protein interaction. These interactions may be of exquisite specificity in mediating assembly of stable membrane protein complexes from cognate subunits. Further, they can be reversible and regulatable by external factors to allow for dynamic changes of protein conformation in biological function. Finally, these helices are increasingly regarded as dynamic domains. These domains can move relative to each other in different functional protein conformations. In addition, small-scale backbone fluctuations may affect their function and their impact on surrounding lipid shells. Elucidating the ways by which these intricate structural features are encoded by the amino acid sequences will be a fascinating subject of research for years to come.

Capture and release of partially zipped trans-SNARE complexes on intact organelles

Soluble N-ethyl-maleimide sensitive fusion protein attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) are hypothesized to trigger membrane fusion by complexing in trans through their membrane-distal N termini and zippering toward their membrane-embedded C termini, which in turn drives the two membranes together. In this study, we use a set of truncated SNAREs to trap kinetically stable, partially zipped trans-SNARE complexes on intact organelles in the absence of hemifusion and content mixing. We show that the C-terminal zippering of SNARE cytoplasmic domains controls the onset of lipid mixing but not the subsequent transition from hemifusion to full fusion. Moreover, we find that a partially zipped nonfusogenic trans-complex is rescued by Sec17, a universal SNARE cochaperone. Rescue occurs independently of the Sec17-binding partner Sec18, and it exhibits steep cooperativity, indicating that Sec17 engages multiple stalled trans-complexes to drive fusion. These experiments delineate distinct functions within the trans-complex, provide a straightforward method to trap and study prefusion complexes on native membranes, and reveal that Sec17 can rescue a stalled, partially zipped trans-complex.

Fusion step-specific influence of cholesterol on SNARE-mediated membrane fusion

Cholesterol is a major component of biological membranes and is known to affect vesicle fusion. However, the mechanism by which cholesterol modulates SNARE-dependent intracellular fusion is not well understood. Using the fluorescence assay and dye-labeled SNAREs and the fluorescent lipids, we dissected cholesterol effects on individual fusion steps including SNARE complex formation, hemifusion, pore formation, and pore dilation. At physiological high concentrations, cholesterol stimulated hemifusion as much as 30-fold, but its stimulatory effect diminished to 10-fold and three-fold for subsequent pore formation and pore expansion at 40 mol %, respectively. The results show that cholesterol serves as a strong stimulator for hemifusion but acts as mild stimulators for pore opening and expansion. Strong stimulation of hemifusion and mild stimulation of pore formation are consistent with the fusion model based on the intrinsic negative curvature of cholesterol. However, even a milder effect of cholesterol on pore expansion is contradictory to such a simple curvature-based prediction. Thus, we speculate that cholesterol also affects the conformation of the transmembrane domains of SNAREs, which modulates the fusion kinetics.