How does synaptotagmin trigger neurotransmitter release?

Neurotransmitter release at synapses involves a highly specialized form of membrane fusion that is triggered by Ca(2+) ions and is optimized for speed. These observations were established decades ago, but only recently have the molecular mechanisms that underlie this process begun to come into view....

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Bibliographic Details
Published inAnnual review of biochemistry Vol. 77; p. 615
Main Author Chapman, Edwin R
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published United States 01.01.2008
Subjects
Animals
Calcium - metabolism
Cell Membrane - metabolism
Exocytosis
Humans
Ions
Kinetics
Models, Biological
Neurons - metabolism
Neurotransmitter Agents - metabolism
Phenotype
SNARE Proteins - metabolism
Synapses - metabolism
Synaptotagmin I - chemistry
Synaptotagmins - metabolism
Synaptotagmins - physiology
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Summary:Neurotransmitter release at synapses involves a highly specialized form of membrane fusion that is triggered by Ca(2+) ions and is optimized for speed. These observations were established decades ago, but only recently have the molecular mechanisms that underlie this process begun to come into view. Here, we summarize findings obtained from genetically modified neurons and neuroendocrine cells, as well as from reconstituted systems, which are beginning to reveal the molecular mechanism by which Ca(2+)-acting on the synaptic vesicle (SV) protein synaptotagmin I (syt)-triggers rapid exocytosis. This work sheds light not only on presynaptic aspects of synaptic transmission, but also on the fundamental problem of membrane fusion, which has remained a puzzle that has yet to be solved in any biological system.
ISSN:0066-4154
DOI:10.1146/annurev.biochem.77.062005.101135