Inhibition of neurotransmission by peptides containing the synaptic protein interaction site of N-type Ca2+ channels

Analysis of knock-out mice to determine the role of HPC-1/syntaxin 1A in expressing synaptic plasticity

The protein HPC-1/syntaxin 1A is abundantly expressed in neurons and localized in the neuronal plasma membrane. It forms a complex with SNAP-25 (25 kDa synaptosomal-associated protein) and VAMP-2 (vesicle-associated membrane protein)/synaptobrevin called SNARE (a soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive fusion protein attachment protein receptor) complex, which is considered essential for synaptic vesicle exocytosis; thus, HPC-1/syntaxin 1A is considered crucial for synaptic transmission. To examine the physiological function of HPC-1/syntaxin 1A in vivo, we produced knock-out (KO) mice by targeted gene disruption. Although HPC-1/syntaxin 1A expression was completely depleted without any effect on the expression of other SNARE proteins, the KO mice were viable. They grew normally, were fertile, and displayed no difference in appearance compared with control littermate. In cultured hippocampal neurons derived from the KO mice, the basic synaptic transmission in vitro was normal. However, the mutant mice had impaired long-term potentiation in the hippocampal slice. Also, although KO mice exhibited normal spatial memory in the hidden platform test, consolidation of conditioned fear memory was impaired. Interestingly, the KO mice had impaired conditioned fear memory extinction. These observations suggest that HPC-1/syntaxin 1A may be closely related to synaptic plasticity.

Molecular mechanisms underlying the modulation of exocytotic noradrenaline release via presynaptic receptors

The release of noradrenaline from nerve terminals is modulated by a variety of presynaptic receptors. These receptors belong to one of the following three receptor superfamilies: transmitter-gated ion channels, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR), and membrane receptors with intracellular enzymatic activities. For representatives of each of these three superfamilies, receptor activation has been reported to cause either an enhancement or a reduction of noradrenaline release. As these receptor classes display greatly diverging structures and functions, a multitude of different molecular mechanisms are involved in the regulation of noradrenaline release via presynaptic receptors. This review gives a short overview of the presynaptic receptors on noradrenergic nerve terminals and summarizes the events involved in vesicle exocytosis in order to finally delineate the most important signaling cascades that mediate the modulation via presynaptic receptors. In addition, the interactions between the various presynaptic receptors are described and the underlying molecular mechanisms are elucidated. Together, these presynaptic signaling mechanisms form a sophisticated network that precisely adapts the amount of noradrenaline being released to a given situation.

Calcium signaling pathways mediating synaptic potentiation triggered by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis IgG in motor nerve terminals

Sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease that affects particularly motoneurons. Several pieces of evidence suggested the involvement of autoimmune mechanisms mediated by antibodies in ALS. However, the significance of those antibodies in the disease and the underlying mechanisms are unknown. Here we showed that IgG purified from a group of sporadic ALS patients, but not familial ALS patients, specifically interact with the presynaptic membrane of motoneurons through an antigen-antibody interaction and modulated synaptic transmission. Immunoreactivity against nerve terminals showed strong correlation with synaptic modulation ability. In addition, several controls have ruled out the possibility for this synaptic modulation to be mediated through proteases or nonspecific effects. Effective IgG potentiated both spontaneous and asynchronous transmitter release. Application of pharmacological inhibitors suggested that activation of this increased release required a nonconstitutive Ca2+ influx through N-type (Cav2.2) channels and phospholipase C activity and that activation of IP3 and ryanodine receptors were necessary to both activate and sustain the increased release. Consistent with the notion that ALS is heterogeneous disorder, our results reveal that, in approximately 50% of ALS patients, motor nerve terminals constitutes a target for autoimmune response.

Ion interaction at the pore of Lc-type Ca2+ channel is sufficient to mediate depolarization-induced exocytosis

The coupling of voltage-gated Ca2+ channel (VGCC) to exocytotic proteins suggests a regulatory function for the channel in depolarization-evoked exocytosis. To explore this possibility we have examined catecholamine secretion in PC12 and chromaffin cells. We found that replacing Ca2+ with La3+ or other lanthanide ions supported exocytosis in divalent ion-free solution. Cd2+, nifedipine, or verapamil inhibited depolarization-evoked secretion in La3+, indicating specific binding of La3+ at the pore of L-type VGCC, probably at the poly-glutamate (EEEE) locus. Lanthanide efficacy was stringently dependent on ionic radius with La3+>Ce3+>Pr3+, consistent with a size-selective binding interface of trivalent cations at the channel pore. La3+ inward currents were not detected and the highly sensitive La3+/fura-2 imaging assay (approximately 1 pm) detected no La3+ entry, cytosolic La3+ build-up, or alterations in cytosolic Ca2. These results provide strong evidence that occupancy of the pore of the channel by an impermeable cation leads to a conformational change that is transmitted to the exocytotic machinery upstream of intracellular cation build-up (intracellular Ca2+ concentration). Our model allows for a tight temporal and spatial coupling between the excitatory stimulation event and vesicle fusion. It challenges the conventional view that intracellular Ca2+ ion build-up via VGCC permeation is required to trigger secretion and establishes the VGCC as a plausible Ca2+ sensor protein in the process of neuroendocrine secretion.

Frequency-dependent depression of exocytosis and the role of voltage-gated calcium channels

Synaptic vesicle exocytosis in primary cultures of baroreceptor neurons is reduced during high-frequency stimulation. Calcium influx through voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCC) is a key step in neurotransmitter release. With the help of FM2-10, a marker of synaptic vesicle recycling, the present study investigates the differential contribution of several VGCC subtypes to exocytosis in neuronal processes and how this contribution is altered at high frequencies. In control experiments, field stimulation at 0.5 Hz evoked about 66 +/- 5% destaining. Combined blockade of N- and P/Q-subtypes with Ctx-MVIIC was far more effective in reducing exocytosis (11 +/- 8%) than blocking N-type (49 +/- 5%, Ctx-GVIA) or P-type (46 +/- 1%, Agatoxin) alone. The effectiveness of the blockers also varied with the duration of stimulation: Ctx-GVIA attenuating exocytosis significantly in the first 60 s and Agatoxin affecting exocytosis only towards the end of 180 s stimulation period. Field stimulation at 10 Hz evoked exocytosis (36 +/- 18%) comparable to that evoked by 0.5 Hz in the presence of Ctx-GVIA. While blockade with Agatoxin had no effects, Ctx-GVIA, Ctx-MVIIC and L-type blocker Nifedepine had small but similar inhibitory effects on exocytosis at 10 Hz. The data suggest that N-type is the major contributor to exocytosis at 0.5 Hz, and this contribution is reduced during prolonged stimulation periods and at high frequencies.

Inhibition of mechanosensitivity in visceral primary afferents by GABAB receptors involves calcium and potassium channels

GABA(B) receptors inhibit mechanosensitivity of visceral afferents. This is associated with reduced triggering of events that lead to gastro-esophageal reflux, with important therapeutic consequences. In other neuronal systems, GABA(B) receptor activation may be linked via G-proteins to reduced N-type Ca(2+) channel opening, increased inward rectifier K(+) channel opening, plus effects on a number of intracellular messengers. Here we aimed to determine the role of Ca(2+) and K(+) channels in the inhibition of vagal afferent mechanoreceptor function by the GABA(B) receptor agonist baclofen. The responses of three types of ferret gastro-esophageal vagal afferents (mucosal, tension and tension mucosal receptors) to graded mechanical stimuli were investigated in vitro. The effects of baclofen (200 microM) alone on these responses were quantified, and the effects of baclofen in the presence of the G-protein-coupled inward rectifier potassium channel blocker Rb(+) (4.7 mM) and/or the N-type calcium channel blocker omega-conotoxin GVIA (0.1 microM). Baclofen inhibition of mucosal receptor mechanosensitivity was abolished by both blockers. Its inhibitory effect on tension mucosal receptors was partly reduced by both. The inhibitory effect of baclofen on tension receptors was unaffected. The data indicate that the inhibitory action of GABA(B) receptors is mediated via different pathways in mucosal, tension and tension mucosal receptors via mechanisms involving both N-type Ca(2+) channels and inwardly rectifying K(+) channels and others.

Localization of myosin II and V isoforms in cultured rat sympathetic neurones and their potential involvement in presynaptic function

While vesicle transport is one of the principal functions of myosin motors in neurones, the role played by specific myosin subtypes in discrete vesicle trafficking is poorly understood. We conducted electrophysiological and morphological experiments to determine whether myosin isoforms II and V might be involved in the transport of small synaptic vesicles in presynaptic nerve terminals of a model cholinergic synapse. Electron microscopy revealed the presence of normal synaptic architecture and synaptic vesicle density in presynaptic terminals of cultured superior cervical ganglion neurones (SCGNs) from myosin Va null rats (dilute-opisthotonus, dop). Similarly, electrophysiological analyses of synaptic transmission and synaptic vesicle cycling at paired SCGN synapses failed to uncover any significant differences in synaptic development and function between normal and dop rats. Immunocytochemistry and in situ localization of green fluorescent protein (GFP)-fusion proteins in wild-type synapses revealed that myosins IIB and Va were distributed throughout the cell soma and processes of SCGNs, while myosins IIA and Vb were not detected in SCGNs. Myosin Va was conspicuously absent in presynaptic nerve terminals, but myosin IIB alone was found to be expressed. Furthermore, synaptic transmission was inhibited by introduction of myosin IIB heavy chain fragments into presynaptic terminals of SCGNs. Together these results suggest that only myosin IIB isoform participates in vesicle trafficking in presynaptic nerve terminals of cultured SCGNs.

PKA-catalyzed phosphorylation of tomosyn and its implication in Ca2+-dependent exocytosis of neurotransmitter

Neurotransmitter is released from nerve terminals by Ca2+-dependent exocytosis through many steps. SNARE proteins are key components at the priming and fusion steps, and the priming step is modulated by cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA), which causes synaptic plasticity. We show that the SNARE regulatory protein tomosyn is directly phosphorylated by PKA, which reduces its interaction with syntaxin-1 (a component of SNAREs) and enhances the formation of the SNARE complex. Electrophysiological studies using cultured superior cervical ganglion (SCG) neurons revealed that this enhanced formation of the SNARE complex by the PKA-catalyzed phosphorylation of tomosyn increased the fusion-competent readily releasable pool of synaptic vesicles and, thereby, enhanced neurotransmitter release. This mechanism was indeed involved in the facilitation of neurotransmitter release that was induced by a potent biological mediator, the pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide, in SCG neurons. We describe the roles and modes of action of PKA and tomosyn in Ca2+-dependent neurotransmitter release.

External Ca2+ dependency of synaptic transmission in drosophila synaptotagmin I mutants

To resolve some of differences in reports on the function of Synaptotagmin I (Syt I), we re-examined synaptic transmission at the neuromuscular junction of Drosophila embryos that have mutations in the Syt I gene (syt I). Two major questions addressed were which Ca2+ binding domain, C2A or C2B, sense Ca2+ and is Syt I a negative regulator of spontaneous vesicle fusion. Synaptic currents were induced by nerve stimulation or by high K+ treatment in external solutions containing various Ca2+ concentrations. In a null allele, syt I(AD4), synchronous synaptic currents were rarely observed but not abolished. The quantal content was about 1/60 of control but increased linearly with [Ca2+](e) with a slope of 0.95 (N) in the double logarithmic plot, in contrast to 3.01 in control. The slope of 1.06 in an allele, syt I(AD1), which lacks the second Ca2+ binding domain, C2B, was not different from in syt I(AD4). In another allele, syt I(AD3), in which one amino acid in C2B is mutated, synchronous synaptic transmission was also impaired and N was 1.54, which is significantly smaller than in control. In high K+ saline, the [Ca2+](e) dependency of vesicle release in syt I(AD4) was lower than in controls, whereas that in syt I(AD3) was even lower than in syt I(AD4), suggesting that syt I(AD3) is inhibiting vesicle fusion. These findings led us to conclude that C2B, not C2A, senses Ca2+, and Syt I is a negative regulator of vesicle fusion.

Molecular identification and reconstitution of depolarization-induced exocytosis monitored by membrane capacitance

Regulated exocytosis of neurotransmitters at synapses is fast and tightly regulated. It is unclear which proteins constitute the "minimal molecular machinery" for this process. Here, we show that a novel technique of capacitance monitoring combined with heterologous protein expression can be used to reconstitute exocytosis that is fast (<0.5 s) and triggered directly by membrane depolarization in Xenopus oocytes. Testing synaptic proteins, voltage-gated Ca2+ channels, and using botulinum and tetanus neurotoxins established that the expression of a Ca2+ channel together with syntaxin 1A, SNAP-25, and synaptotagmin was sufficient and necessary for the reconstitution of depolarization-induced exocytosis. Similar to synaptic exocytosis, the reconstituted release was sensitive to neurotoxins, modulated by divalent cations (Ca2+, Ba2+, and Sr2+) or channel (Lc-, N-type), and depended nonlinearly on divalent cation concentration. Because of its improved speed, native trigger, and great experimental versatility, this reconstitution assay provides a novel, promising tool to study synaptic exocytosis.

Mechanism of SNARE protein binding and regulation of Cav2 channels by phosphorylation of the synaptic protein interaction site

Ca(v)2.1 and Ca(v)2.2 channels conduct P/Q-type and N-type Ca(2+) currents that initiate neurotransmission and bind SNARE proteins through a synaptic protein interaction (synprint) site. PKC and CaMKII phosphorylate the synprint site and inhibit SNARE protein binding in vitro. Here we identify two separate microdomains that each bind syntaxin 1A and SNAP-25 in vitro and are regulated by PKC phosphorylation at serines 774 and 898 and CaMKII phosphorylation at serines 784 and 896. Activation of PKC resulted in its recruitment to and phosphorylation of Ca(V)2.2 channels, but PKC phosphorylation did not dissociate Ca(V)2.2 channel/syntaxin 1A complexes. Chimeric Ca(V)2.1a channels containing the synprint site of Ca(v)2.2 gain modulation by syntaxin 1A, which is blocked by PKC phosphorylation at the sites identified above. Our results support a bipartite model for the synprint site in which each SNARE-binding microdomain is controlled by a separate PKC and CaMKII phosphorylation site that regulates channel modulation by SNARE proteins.

Masters or slaves? Vesicle release machinery and the regulation of presynaptic calcium channels

Calcium entry through presynaptic voltage-gated calcium channels is essential for neurotransmitter release. The two major types of presynaptic calcium channels contain a synaptic protein interaction site that physically interacts with synaptic vesicle release proteins. This is thought to tighten the coupling between the sources of calcium entry and the neurotransmitter release machinery. Conversely, the binding of synaptic proteins to presynaptic calcium channels regulates calcium channel activity. Hence, presynaptic calcium channels act not only as the masters of the synaptic release process, but also as key targets for feedback inhibition.

SV2A and SV2C contain a unique synaptotagmin-binding site

SV2 (Synaptic Vesicle Protein 2) is expressed in neurons and endocrine cells where it is required for normal calcium-evoked neurosecretion. In mammals, there are three SV2 genes, denoted SV2A, B and C. SV2A interacts with synaptotagmin, the prime candidate for the calcium sensor in exocytosis. Here, we report that all isoforms of native SV2 bind synaptotagmin and that binding is inhibited by calcium, indicating that all isoforms contain a common calcium-inhibited synaptotagmin-binding site. The isolated amino termini of SV2A and SV2C supported an additional interaction with synaptotagmin, and binding at this site was stimulated by calcium. The amino-terminal binding site was mapped to the first 57 amino acids of SV2A, and removal of this domain decreased calcium-mediated inhibition of binding to synaptotagmin, suggesting that it modulates calcium's effect on the SV2-synaptotagmin interaction. Introduction of the amino terminus of SV2A or SV2C into cultured superior cervical ganglion neurons inhibited neurotransmission, whereas the amino terminus of SV2B did not. These observations implicate the SV2-synaptotagmin interaction in regulated exocytosis and suggest that SV2A and SV2C, via their additional synaptotagmin binding site, function differently than SV2B.

Dual roles of the C2B domain of synaptotagmin I in synchronizing Ca2+-dependent neurotransmitter release

Although the vesicular protein synaptotagmin I contains two Ca2+-binding domains (C2A and C2B), Ca2+ binding to the C2B domain is more important for triggering synchronous neurotransmitter release. We have used point mutagenesis to determine the functional contributions of the five negatively charged aspartate (Asp) residues that constitute the Ca2+-binding sites in the C2B domain of synaptotagmin I. Transfecting wild-type synaptotagmin I DNA into cultured hippocampal neurons from synaptotagmin I knock-out mice rescued Ca2+-dependent synchronous transmitter release and reduced a slower, asynchronous component of release, indicating that synaptotagmin I suppresses asynchronous release. Mutating either the second or third Asp residues of the C2B domain potently inhibited the ability of synaptotagmin I to rescue synchronous release but did not change its ability to suppress asynchronous release. Synaptotagmin I with mutations in the first or fourth Asp residues of the C2B domain partially rescued synchronous release and partially suppressed asynchronous release, whereas neutralizing the fifth Asp residue had no effect on the ability of synaptotagmin I to rescue transmitter release. Thus, we conclude that the C2B domain of synaptotagmin I regulates neurotransmitter release in at least two ways. Synchronous release absolutely requires binding of Ca2+ to the second and third Asp residues in this domain. For the suppression of asynchronous release, Ca2+ binding to the C2B domain of synaptotagmin I apparently is not necessary because mutation of the second Asp residue inhibits Ca2+ binding, yet still allows this protein to suppress asynchronous release.

G protein {beta}{gamma} subunits mediate presynaptic inhibition of transmitter release from rat superior cervical ganglion neurones in culture

The activation of presynaptic G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) is widely reported to inhibit transmitter release; however, the lack of accessibility of many presynaptic terminals has limited direct analysis of signalling mediators. We studied GPCR-mediated inhibition of fast cholinergic transmission between superior cervical ganglion neurones (SCGNs) in culture. The adrenoceptor agonist noradrenaline (NA) caused a dose-related reduction in evoked excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs). NA-induced EPSP decrease was accompanied by effects on the presynaptic action potential (AP), reducing AP duration and amplitude of the after-hyperpolarization (AHP), without affecting the pre- and postsynaptic membrane potential. All effects of NA were blocked by yohimbine and synaptic transmission was reduced by clonidine, consistent with an action at presynaptic alpha2-adrenoceptors. NA-induced inhibition of transmission was sensitive to pre-incubation of SCGNs with pertussis toxin (PTX), implicating the involvement of Galpha(i/o)betagamma subunits. Expression of Galpha transducin, an agent which sequesters G protein betagamma (Gbetagamma) subunits, in the presynaptic neurone caused a time-dependent attenuation of NA-induced inhibition. Injection of purified Gbetagamma subunits into the presynaptic neurone inhibited transmission, and also reduced the AHP amplitude. Furthermore, NA-induced inhibition was occluded by pre-injection of Gbetagamma subunits. The Ca(2+) channel blocker Cd(2+) mimicked NA effects on transmitter release. Cd(2+), NA and Gbetagamma subunits also inhibited somatic Ca(2+) current. In contrast to effects on AP-evoked transmitter release, NA had no clear action on AP-independent EPSPs induced by hypertonic solutions. These results demonstrate that Gbetagamma subunits functionally mediate inhibition of transmitter release by alpha2-adrenoceptors and represent important regulators of synaptic transmission at mammalian presynaptic terminals.

Syntaxin-1A Binds to and Modulates the Slo Calcium-Activated Potassium Channel via an Interaction That Excludes Syntaxin Binding to Calcium Channels

From its position in presynaptic nerve terminals, the large conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channel, Slo, regulates neurotransmitter release. Several other ion channels known to control neurotransmitter release have been implicated in physical interactions with the neurotransmitter release machinery. For example, the Cav2.2 (N-type) Ca2+ channel binds to and is modulated by syntaxin-1A and SNAP-25. Furthermore, a close juxtaposition of Slo and Cav2.2 is presumed to be necessary for functional coupling between the two channels, which has been shown in neurons. We report that Slo exhibits a strong association with syntaxin-1A. Robust co-immunoprecipitation of Slo and syntaxin-1A occurs from transfected HEK293 cells as well as from brain. However, despite this strong interaction and the known association between syntaxin-1A and the II–III loop of Cav2.2, these three proteins do not co-immunoprecipitate in a trimeric complex from transfected HEK293 cells. The Slo-syntaxin-1A co-immunoprecipitation is not significantly influenced by [Ca2+]. Multiple relatively weak interactions may sum up to a tight physical coupling of full-length Slo with syntaxin-1A: the C-terminal tail and the S0–S1 loop of Slo each co-immunoprecipitate with syntaxin-1A. The presence of syntaxin-1A leads to reduced Slo channel activity due to an increased V1/2 for activation in 100 nM, 1 μM, and 10 μM Ca2+, reduced voltage-sensitivity in 1 μM Ca2+, and slower rates of activation in 10 μM Ca2+. Potential physiological consequences of the interaction between Slo and syntaxin-1A include enhanced excitability through modulation of Slo channel activity and reduced neurotransmitter release due to disruption of syntaxin-1A binding to the Cav2.2 II–III loop.

CaV2.3 calcium channels control second-phase insulin release

Concerted activation of different voltage-gated Ca( (2+) ) channel isoforms may determine the kinetics of insulin release from pancreatic islets. Here we have elucidated the role of R-type Ca(V)2.3 channels in that process. A 20% reduction in glucose-evoked insulin secretion was observed in Ca(V)2.3-knockout (Ca(V)2.3(-/-)) islets, close to the 17% inhibition by the R-type blocker SNX482 but much less than the 77% inhibition produced by the L-type Ca(2+) channel antagonist isradipine. Dynamic insulin-release measurements revealed that genetic or pharmacological Ca(V)2.3 ablation strongly suppressed second-phase secretion, whereas first-phase secretion was unaffected, a result also observed in vivo. Suppression of the second phase coincided with an 18% reduction in oscillatory Ca(2+) signaling and a 25% reduction in granule recruitment after completion of the initial exocytotic burst in single Ca(V)2.3(-/-) beta cells. Ca(V)2.3 ablation also impaired glucose-mediated suppression of glucagon secretion in isolated islets (27% versus 58% in WT), an effect associated with coexpression of insulin and glucagon in a fraction of the islet cells in the Ca(V)2.3(-/-) mouse. We propose a specific role for Ca(V)2.3 Ca(2+) channels in second-phase insulin release, that of mediating the Ca(2+) entry needed for replenishment of the releasable pool of granules as well as islet cell differentiation.

Synaptotagmin I synchronizes transmitter release in mouse hippocampal neurons

We have asked whether loss of the Ca2+ sensor protein synaptotagmin I influences the total amount of neurotransmitter released after a presynaptic action potential. Hippocampal neurons from synaptotagmin I knock-out mice had a greatly reduced fast synchronous component of glutamate release, as reported previously. However, the amount of glutamate released during the slow asynchronous component increased in these knock-out neurons. As a result of these changes in the kinetics of release, there was no significant difference between wild-type and knock-out neurons in the total amount of transmitter released within 400 msec after a presynaptic stimulus. Fluorescence imaging experiments demonstrated that wild-type and knock-out neurons take up and release similar amounts of FM dye after depolarization, indicating normal amounts of synaptic vesicle trafficking in the knock-out neurons. These results indicate that synaptotagmin I knock-out neurons are fully capable of releasing neurotransmitter, with the increased slow component of release serving to compensate for loss of the fast component. Thus, synaptotagmin I synchronizes the rapid release of neurotransmitters after Ca2+ entry into presynaptic terminals and also appears to suppress the slower, asynchronous form of transmitter release.

Deletion of the synaptic protein interaction site of the N-type (CaV2.2) calcium channel inhibits secretion in mouse pheochromocytoma cells

Presynaptic N-type Ca2+ channels (CaV2.2, alpha1B) are thought to bind to SNARE (SNAP-25 receptor) complex proteins through a synaptic protein interaction (synprint) site on the intracellular loop between domains II and III of the alpha1B subunit. Whether binding of syntaxin to the N-type Ca2+ channels is required for coupling Ca2+ ion influx to rapid exocytosis has been the subject of considerable investigation. In this study, we deleted the synprint site from a recombinant alpha1B Ca2+ channel subunit and transiently transfected either the wild-type alpha1B or the synprint deletion mutant into mouse pheochromocytoma (MPC) cell line 9/3L, a cell line that has the machinery required for rapid stimulated exocytosis but lacks endogenous voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels. Secretion was elicited by activation of exogenously transfected Ca2+ channel subunits. The current-voltage relationship was similar for the wild-type and mutant alpha1B-containing Ca2+ channels. Although total Ca2+ entry was slightly larger for the synprint deletion channel, compared with the wild-type channel, when Ca2+ entry was normalized to cell size and limited to cells with similar Ca2+ entry (approximately 150 x 10(6) Ca2+ ions/pF cell size), total secretion and the rate of secretion, determined by capacitance measurements, were significantly reduced in cells expressing the synprint deletion mutant channels, compared with wild-type channels. Furthermore, the amount of endocytosis was significantly reduced in cells with the alpha1B synprint deletion mutant, compared with the wild-type subunit. These results suggest that the synprint site is necessary for efficient coupling of Ca2+ influx through alpha1B-containing Ca2+ channels to exocytosis.

Trans-SNARE interactions elicit Ca2+ efflux from the yeast vacuole lumen

Ca²⁺ transients trigger many SNARE-dependent membrane fusion events. The homotypic fusion of yeast vacuoles occurs after a release of lumenal Ca²⁺. Here, we show that trans-SNARE interactions promote the release of Ca²⁺ from the vacuole lumen. Ypt7p–GTP, the Sec1p/Munc18-protein Vps33p, and Rho GTPases, all of which function during docking, are required for Ca²⁺ release. Inhibitors of SNARE function prevent Ca²⁺ release. Recombinant Vam7p, a soluble Q-SNARE, stimulates Ca²⁺ release. Vacuoles lacking either of two complementary SNAREs, Vam3p or Nyv1p, fail to release Ca²⁺ upon tethering. Mixing these two vacuole populations together allows Vam3p and Nyv1p to interact in trans and rescues Ca²⁺ release. Sec17/18p promote sustained Ca²⁺ release by recycling SNAREs (and perhaps other limiting factors), but are not required at the release step itself. We conclude that trans-SNARE assembly events during docking promote Ca²⁺ release from the vacuole lumen.

R-type voltage-gated ca2+ channel interacts with synaptic proteins and recruits synaptotagmin to the plasma membrane of xenopus oocytes

It is well established that syntaxin 1A, synaptosomal-associated protein of 25 kDa (SNAP-25) and synaptotagmin either alone or in combination, modulate the kinetic properties of voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels Ca(v)1.2 (Lc-channel) Ca(v)2.2 (N-type) and Ca(v)2.1 (P/Q-type). The interaction interface was found to reside at the cytosolic II-III domain of the alpha1 subunit of the channels. In this study, we demonstrated a functional coupling of human neuronal Ca(v)2.3 (R-type channel) with syntaxin 1A, SNAP-25 and synaptotagmin in BAPTA injected Xenopus oocytes. The kinetic properties of Ca(v)2.3 assembled with syntaxin 1A, SNAP-25 or synaptotagmin individually differed from Ca(v)2.3 associated with binary complexes syntaxin 1A/SNAP-25, syntaxin 1A/synaptotagmin or SNAP-25/synaptotagmin. Co-expression of Ca(v)2.3 with syntaxin 1A, SNAP-25 and synaptotagmin together, produced a channel with distinctive kinetic properties analogous to excitosome multiprotein complex generated by Ca(v)1.2 and Ca(v)2.2. Exchanging the current-carrying ions altered the kinetics of channel/synaptic proteins interaction, indicating a tight crosstalk formed between the permeation pathway of Ca(v)2.3 and the fusion apparatus during membrane depolarization. This putative coupling could predict how the release site might be organized to allow a rapid communication between the channel and the release machinery. In vivo confocal imaging of oocytes revealed GFP-synaptotagmin at the plasma membrane when the channel was present, as opposed to random distribution in its absence, consistent with Ca(2+)-independent molecular link of synaptotagmin and the channel. Synaptotagmin was detected at the membrane also in oocytes co-expressing the soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs). Both imaging studies and protein-protein interactions in Xenopus oocytes show that channel linkage to synaptotagmin precedes Ca(2+) influx. Altogether, the R-type channel appears to associate with synaptic proteins to generate a multiprotein excitosome complex prior to Ca(2+)-entry. We propose that the distinct kinetics of the Ca(2+)-channel acquired by the close association with the vesicle and the t-SNAREs within the excitosome complex may be essential for depolarization evoked transmitter release.

G protein modulation of voltage-gated calcium channels

Calcium influx into any cell requires fine tuning to guarantee the correct balance between activation of calcium-dependent processes, such as muscle contraction and neurotransmitter release, and calcium-induced cell damage. G protein-coupled receptors play a critical role in negative feedback to modulate the activity of the CaV2 subfamily of the voltage-dependent calcium channels, which are largely situated on neuronal and neuro-endocrine cells. The basis for the specificity of the relationships among membrane receptors, G proteins, and effector calcium channels will be discussed, as well as the mechanism by which G protein-mediated inhibition is thought to occur. The inhibition requires free G beta gamma dimers, and the cytoplasmic linker between domains I and II of the CaV2 alpha 1 subunits binds G beta gamma dimers, whereas the intracellular N terminus of CaV2 alpha 1 subunits provides essential determinants for G protein modulation. Evidence suggests a key role for the beta subunits of calcium channels in the process of G protein modulation, and the role of a class of proteins termed "regulators of G protein signaling" will also be described.

Local calcium signaling in neurons

Transient rises in the cytoplasmic concentration of calcium ions serve as second messenger signals that control many neuronal functions. Selective triggering of these functions is achieved through spatial localization of calcium signals. Several qualitatively different forms of local calcium signaling can be distinguished by the location of open calcium channels as well as by the distance between these channels and the calcium binding proteins that serve as the molecular targets of calcium action. Local calcium signaling is especially prominent at presynaptic active zones and postsynaptic densities, structures that are distinguished by highly organized macromolecular arrays that yield precise spatial arrangements of calcium signaling proteins. Similar forms of local calcium signaling may be employed throughout the nervous system, though much remains to be learned about the molecular underpinnings of these events.

Expression of recombinant calcium channels support secretion in a mouse pheochromocytoma cell line

We have characterized a recently established mouse pheochromocytoma cell line (MPC 9/3L) as a useful model for studying neurotransmitter release and neuroendocrine secretion. MPC 9/3L cells express many of the proteins involved in Ca2+-dependent neurotransmitter release but do not express functional endogenous Ca2+-influx pathways. When transfected with recombinant N-type Ca2+ channel subunits alpha1B,beta2a,alpha2delta (Cav2.2), the cells expressed robust Ca2+ currents that were blocked by omega-conotoxin GVIA. Activation of N-type Ca2+ currents caused rapid increases in membrane capacitance of the MPC 9/3L cells, indicating that the Ca2+ influx was linked to exocytosis of vesicles similar to that reported in chromaffin or PC12 cells. Synaptic protein interaction (synprint) sites, like those found on N-type Ca2+ channels, are thought to link voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels to SNARE proteins involved in synaptic transmission. Interestingly, MPC 9/3L cells transfected with either LC-type (alpha1C, beta2a, alpha2delta, Cav1.2) or T-type (alpha1G, beta2a, alpha2delta, Cav3.1) Ca2+ channel subunits, which do not express synprint sites, expressed appropriate Ca2+ currents that supported rapid exocytosis. Thus MPC 9/3L cells provide a unique model for the study of exocytosis in cells expressing specific Ca2+ channels of defined subunit composition without complicating contributions from endogenous channels. This model may help to distinguish the roles that different Ca2+ channels play in Ca2+-dependent secretion.

Calcium-triggered membrane fusion proceeds independently of specific presynaptic proteins

Complexes of specific presynaptic proteins have been hypothesized to drive or catalyze the membrane fusion steps of exocytosis. Here we use a stage-specific preparation to test the roles of SNAREs, synaptotagmin, and SNARE-binding proteins in the mechanism of Ca2+-triggered membrane fusion. Excess exogenous proteins, sufficient to block SNARE interactions, did not inhibit either the Ca2+ sensitivity, extent, or kinetics of fusion. In contrast, despite a limited effect on SNARE and synaptotagmin densities, treatments with high doses of chymotrypsin markedly inhibited fusion. Conversely, low doses of chymotrypsin had no effect on the Ca2+ sensitivity or extent of fusion but did alter the kinetic profile, indicating a more direct involvement of other proteins in the triggered fusion pathway. SNAREs, synaptotagmin, and their immediate binding partners are critical to exocytosis at a stage other than membrane fusion, although they may still influence the triggered steps.

Regulation of presynaptic calcium channels by synaptic proteins

Calcium entry into nerve termini via voltage gated calcium channels is an essential step in neurotransmission. Consequently, second messenger regulation of calcium channel activity modulates synaptic activity. It has been suggested that calcium channels must physically couple to the release machinery, and a physical interaction between a synaptic protein interaction (synprint) site contained within mammalian presynaptic calcium channels and synaptic proteins such as syntaxin 1, SNAP-25, and synaptotagmin has been demonstrated. Interestingly, synaptic calcium channels in invertebrates lack this region. In invertebrates, synaptic transmission is instead dependent on a presynaptic calcium channel splice variant that can physically associate with the adaptor proteins Mint-1 and CASK. We suggest that in the absence of a synprint region, these proteins may localize calcium channels to the synaptic release machinery. The interactions between synaptic proteins and mammalian N-type calcium channels serves to regulate calcium channel activity directly, as well as indirectly by altering second messenger regulation of the channels. This provides for a feedback mechanism that allows the fine-tuning of calcium channel activity during various steps in neurotransmitter release. This does not occur with invertebrate synaptic calcium channel homologs, suggesting that the regulation of calcium channel activity by synaptic proteins is a mechanism unique to vertebrates.

Functional interactions between presynaptic calcium channels and the neurotransmitter release machinery

In vertebrates, the physical coupling between presynaptic calcium channels and synaptic vesicle release proteins enhances the efficiency of neurotransmission. Recent evidence indicates that these synaptic proteins may feedback directly on synaptic release by negatively regulating calcium entry, and indirectly through pathways involving second messenger molecules. Studies of individual neurons from both vertebrates and invertebrates have provided novel insights into the roles of scaffolding proteins in calcium channel targeting and neurotransmitter release. These studies require us to expand current models of synaptic transmission.

Requirement for the synaptic protein interaction site for reconstitution of synaptic transmission by P/Q-type calcium channels

Ca(v)2.1 channels, which conduct P/Q-type Ca(2+) currents, were expressed in superior cervical ganglion neurons in cell culture, and neurotransmission initiated by these exogenously expressed Ca(2+) channels was measured. Deletions in the synaptic protein interaction (synprint) site in the intracellular loop between domains II and III of Ca(v)2.1 channels reduced their effectiveness in synaptic transmission. Surprisingly, this effect was correlated with loss of presynaptic localization of the exogenously expressed channels. Ca(v)1.2 channels, which conduct L-type Ca(2+) currents, are ineffective in supporting synaptic transmission, but substitution of the synprint site from Ca(v)2.1 channels in Ca(v)1.2 was sufficient to establish synaptic transmission initiated by L-type Ca(2+) currents through the exogenous Ca(v)1.2 channels. Substitution of the synprint site from Ca(v)2.2 channels, which conduct N-type Ca(2+) currents, was even more effective than Ca(v)2.1. Our results show that localization and function of exogenous Ca(2+) channels in nerve terminals of superior cervical ganglion neurons require a functional synprint site and suggest that binding of soluble NSF attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins to the synprint site is a necessary permissive event for nerve terminal localization of presynaptic Ca(2+) channels.

Subtype-selective reconstitution of synaptic transmission in sympathetic ganglion neurons by expression of exogenous calcium channels

Fast cholinergic neurotransmission between superior cervical ganglion neurons (SCGNs) in cell culture is initiated by N-type Ca(2+) currents through Ca(v)2.2 channels. To test the ability of different Ca(2+)-channel subtypes to initiate synaptic transmission in these cells, SCGNs were injected with cDNAs encoding Ca(v)1.2 channels, which conduct L-type currents, Ca(v)2.1 channels, which conduct P/Q-type Ca(2+) currents, and Ca(v)2.3 channels, which conduct R-type Ca(2+) currents. Exogenously expressed Ca(v)2.1 channels were localized in nerve terminals, as assessed by immunocytochemistry with subtype-specific antibodies, and these channels effectively initiated synaptic transmission. Injection with cDNA encoding Ca(v)2.3 channels yielded a lower level of presynaptic labeling and synaptic transmission, whereas injection with cDNA encoding Ca(v)1.2 channels resulted in no presynaptic labeling and no synaptic transmission. Our results show that exogenously expressed Ca(2+) channels can mediate synaptic transmission in SCGNs and that the specificity of reconstitution of neurotransmission (Ca(v)2.1 > Ca(v)2.3 >> Ca(v)1.2) follows the same order as in neurons in vivo. The specificity of reconstitution of neurotransmission parallels the specificity of trafficking of these Ca(v) channels to nerve terminals.

Calcium channel structural determinants of synaptic transmission between identified invertebrate neurons

We report here that unlike what was suggested for many vertebrate neurons, synaptic transmission in Lymnaea stagnalis occurs independent of a physical interaction between presynaptic calcium channels and a functional complement of SNARE proteins. Instead, synaptic transmission in Lymnaea requires the expression of a C-terminal splice variant of the Lymnaea homolog to mammalian N- and P/Q-type calcium channels. We show that the alternately spliced region physically interacts with the scaffolding proteins Mint1 and CASK, and that synaptic transmission is abolished following RNA interference knockdown of CASK or after the injection of peptide sequences designed to disrupt the calcium channel-Mint1 interactions. Our data suggest that Mint1 and CASK may serve to localize the non-L-type channels at the active zone and that synaptic transmission in invertebrate neurons utilizes a mechanism for optimizing calcium entry, which occurs independently of a physical association between calcium channels and SNARE proteins.

Synaptic ribbon. Conveyor belt or safety belt?

The synaptic ribbon in neurons that release transmitter via graded potentials has been considered as a conveyor belt that actively moves vesicles toward their release sites. But evidence has accumulated to the contrary, and it now seems plausible that the ribbon serves instead as a safety belt to tether vesicles stably in mutual contact and thus facilitate multivesicular release by compound exocytosis.

Mechanisms of exocytosis in insulin-secreting B-cells and glucagon-secreting A-cells

In pancreatic B- and A-cells, metabolic stimuli regulate biochemical and electrical processes that culminate in Ca2+-influx and release of insulin or glucagon, respectively. Like in other (neuro)endocrine cells, Ca2+-influx triggers the rapid exocytosis of hormone-containing secretory granules. Only a small fraction of granules (<1% in insulin-secreting B-cells) can be released immediately, while the remainder requires translocation to the plasma membrane and further "priming" for release by several ATP- and Ca2+-dependent reactions. Such functional organization may account for systemic features such as the biphasic time course of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. Since this release pattern is altered in type-2 diabetes mellitus, it is conceivable that disturbances in the exocytotic machinery underlie the disease. Here I will review recent data from our laboratory relevant for the understanding of these processes in insulin-secreting B-cells and glucagon-secreting A-cells and for the identification of novel targets for antidiabetic drug action. Two aspects are discussed in detail: 1) The importance of a tight interaction between L-type Ca2+-channels and the exocytotic machinery for efficient secretion; and 2) the role of intragranular acidification for the priming of secretory granules and its regulation by a granular 65-kDa sulfonylurea-binding protein.

Synaptic calcium-channel function in Drosophila: analysis and transformation rescue of temperature-sensitive paralytic and lethal mutations of cacophony

Voltage-gated calcium channels play a key role in chemical synaptic transmission by providing the calcium trigger for regulated neurotransmitter release. Genes encoding the primary structural subunit, alpha1, as well as accessory subunits of presynaptic calcium channels have now been identified in a variety of organisms. The cacophony (cac) gene in Drosophila, also known as nightblind A, encodes a voltage-gated calcium-channel alpha1 subunit homologous to vertebrate alpha1 subunits implicated in neurotransmitter release. A recent genetic screen in our laboratory isolated cac(TS2), a conditional cac mutant exhibiting rapid paralysis at elevated temperatures. This mutant has allowed synaptic electrophysiology after acute perturbation of a specific calcium-channel gene product, demonstrating that cac encodes a primary calcium channel functioning in neurotransmitter release. Here we report the molecular lesion in cac(TS2), a missense mutation within a calcium-dependent regulatory domain of the alpha1 subunit, as well as phenotypic rescue of temperature-sensitive and lethal cac mutations by transgenic expression of a wild-type cac cDNA. Notably, rescue of rapid, calcium-triggered neurotransmitter release was achieved by neural expression of a single cDNA containing a subset of alternative exons and lacking any conserved synaptic-protein interaction sequence. Possible implications of these findings are discussed in the context of structure-function studies of synaptic calcium channels, as well as alternative splicing and mRNA editing of the cac transcript.

Short-term synaptic plasticity

Synaptic transmission is a dynamic process. Postsynaptic responses wax and wane as presynaptic activity evolves. This prominent characteristic of chemical synaptic transmission is a crucial determinant of the response properties of synapses and, in turn, of the stimulus properties selected by neural networks and of the patterns of activity generated by those networks. This review focuses on synaptic changes that result from prior activity in the synapse under study, and is restricted to short-term effects that last for at most a few minutes. Forms of synaptic enhancement, such as facilitation, augmentation, and post-tetanic potentiation, are usually attributed to effects of a residual elevation in presynaptic [Ca(2+)]i, acting on one or more molecular targets that appear to be distinct from the secretory trigger responsible for fast exocytosis and phasic release of transmitter to single action potentials. We discuss the evidence for this hypothesis, and the origins of the different kinetic phases of synaptic enhancement, as well as the interpretation of statistical changes in transmitter release and roles played by other factors such as alterations in presynaptic Ca(2+) influx or postsynaptic levels of [Ca(2+)]i. Synaptic depression dominates enhancement at many synapses. Depression is usually attributed to depletion of some pool of readily releasable vesicles, and various forms of the depletion model are discussed. Depression can also arise from feedback activation of presynaptic receptors and from postsynaptic processes such as receptor desensitization. In addition, glial-neuronal interactions can contribute to short-term synaptic plasticity. Finally, we summarize the recent literature on putative molecular players in synaptic plasticity and the effects of genetic manipulations and other modulatory influences.

Ionic dependence of Ca2+ channel modulation by syntaxin 1A

Alteration of the kinetic properties of voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels, Ca(v)1.2 (Lc-type), Ca(v)2.2 (N type), and Ca(v)2.3 (R type), by syntaxin 1A (Syn1A) and synaptotagmin could modulate exocytosis. We tested how switching divalent charge carriers from Ca(2+) to Sr(2+) and Ba(2+) affected Syn1A and synaptotagmin modulation of Ca(2+)-channel activation. Syn1A accelerated Ca(v)1.2 activation if Ca(2+) was the charge carrier; and by substituting for Ba(2+), Syn1A slowed Ca(v)1.2 activation. Syn1A also significantly accelerated Ca(v)2.3 activation in Ca(2+) and marginally in Ba(2+). Synaptotagmin, on the other hand, increased the rate of activation of Ca(v)2.3 and Ca(v)2.2 in all permeating ions tested. The Syn1A-channel interaction, unlike the synaptotagmin-channel interaction, proved significantly more sensitive to the type of permeating ion. It is well established that exocytosis is affected by switching the charge carriers. Based on the present results, we suggest that the channel-Syn1A interaction could respond to the conformational changes induced within the channel during membrane depolarization and divalent ion binding. These changes could partially account for the charge specificity of synaptic transmission as well as for the fast signaling between the Ca(2+) source and the fusion apparatus of channel-associated-vesicles (CAV). Furthermore, propagation of conformational changes induced by the divalent ions appear to affect the concerted interaction of the channel with the fusion/docking machinery upstream to free Ca(2+) buildup and/or binding to a cytosolic Ca(2+) sensor. These results raise the intriguing possibility that the channel is the Ca(2+) sensor in the process of fast neurotransmitter release.

Identification and characterization of novel human Ca(v)2.2 (alpha 1B) calcium channel variants lacking the synaptic protein interaction site

The physical interaction between the presynaptic vesicle release complex and the large cytoplasmic region linking domains II and III of N-type (Ca(v)2.2) calcium channel alpha(1)B subunits is considered to be of fundamental importance for efficient neurotransmission. By PCR analysis of human brain cDNA libraries and IMR32 cell mRNA, we have isolated novel N-type channel variants, termed Ca(v)2.2-Delta1 and Delta2, which lack large parts of the domain II-III linker region, including the synaptic protein interaction site. They appear to be widely expressed across the human CNS as indicated by RNase protection assays. When expressed in tsA-201 cells, both novel variants formed barium-permeable channels with voltage dependences and kinetics for activation that were similar to those observed with the full-length channel. All three channel types exhibited the hallmarks of prepulse facilitation, which interestingly occurred independently of G-protein betagamma subunits. By contrast, the voltage dependence of steady-state inactivation seen with both Delta1 and Delta2 channels was shifted toward more depolarized potentials, and recovery from inactivation of Delta1 and Delta2 channels occurred more rapidly than that of the full-length channel. Moreover, the Delta1 channel was dramatically less sensitive to both omega-conotoxin MVIIA and GVIA than either the Delta2 variant or the full-length construct. Finally, the domain II-III linker region of neither variant was able to effectively bind syntaxin in vitro. These results suggest that the structure of the II-III linker region is an important determinant of N-type channel function and pharmacology. The lack of syntaxin binding hints at a unique physiological function of these channels.

A subset of 50 secretory granules in close contact with L-type Ca2+ channels accounts for first-phase insulin secretion in mouse beta-cells

Capacitance measurements were applied to mouse pancreatic beta-cells to elucidate the cellular mechanisms underlying biphasic insulin secretion. We report here that only <50 of the beta-cell's >10,000 granules are immediately available for release. The releasable granules tightly associate with the voltage-gated alpha(1C) Ca(2+) channels, and it is proposed that the release of these granules accounts for first-phase insulin secretion. Subsequent replenishment of the releasable pool by priming of previously nonreleasable granules is required for second-phase insulin secretion. The latter reaction depends on intragranular acidification due to the concerted action of granular bafilomycin-sensitive v-type H(+)-ATPase and 4,4-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2-disulfonate--blockable ClC-3 Cl(-) channels. Lowering the cytoplasmic ATP/ADP ratio prevents granule acidification, granule priming, and refilling of the releasable pool. The latter finding provides an explanation to the transient nature of insulin secretion elicited by, for example, high extracellular K(+) in the absence of metabolizable fuels.

Targeted mutations in the syntaxin H3 domain specifically disrupt SNARE complex function in synaptic transmission

The cytoplasmic H3 helical domain of syntaxin is implicated in numerous protein-protein interactions required for the assembly and stability of the SNARE complex mediating vesicular fusion at the synapse. Two specific hydrophobic residues (Ala-240, Val-244) in H3 layers 4 and 5 of mammalian syntaxin1A have been suggested to be involved in SNARE complex stability and required for the inhibitory effects of syntaxin on N-type calcium channels. We have generated the equivalent double point mutations in Drosophila syntaxin1A (A243V, V247A; syx(4) mutant) to examine their significance in synaptic transmission in vivo. The syx(4) mutant animals are embryonic lethal and display severely impaired neuronal secretion, although non-neuronal secretion appears normal. Synaptic transmission is nearly abolished, with residual transmission delayed, highly variable, and nonsynchronous, strongly reminiscent of transmission in null synaptotagmin I mutants. However, the syx(4) mutants show no alterations in synaptic protein levels in vivo or syntaxin partner binding interactions in vitro. Rather, syx(4) mutant animals have severely impaired hypertonic saline response in vivo, an assay indicating loss of fusion-competent synaptic vesicles, and in vitro SNARE complexes containing Syx(4) protein have significantly compromised stability. These data suggest that the same residues required for syntaxin-mediated calcium channel inhibition are required for the generation of fusion-competent vesicles in a neuronal-specific mechanism acting at synapses.

The voltage-gated Ca2+ channel is the Ca2+ sensor of fast neurotransmitter release

Previously it demonstrated that in the absence of Ca2+ entry, evoked secretion occurs neither by membrane depolarization, induction of [Ca2+]i rise, nor by both combined (Ashery, U., Weiss, C., Sela, D., Spira, M. E., and Atlas, D. (1993). Receptors Channels 1:217-220.). These studies designate Ca2+ entry as opposed to [Ca2+]i rise, essential for exocytosis. It led us to propose that the channel acts as the Ca+ sensor and modulates secretion through a physical and functional contact with the synaptic proteins. This view was supported by protein-protein interactions reconstituted in the Xenopus oocytes expression system and release experiments in pancreatic cells (Barg, S., Ma, X., Elliasson, L., Galvanovskis, J., Gopel, S. O., Obermuller, S., Platzer, J., Renstrom, E., Trus, M., Atlas, D., Streissnig, G., and Rorsman, P. (2001). Biophys. J; Wiser, O., Bennett, M. K., and Atlas, D. (1996). EMBO J 15:4100-4110; Wiser, O., Trus, M.. Hernandez, A., Renström, E., Barg, S., Rorsman. P., and Atlas, D. (1999). Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 96:248-253). The kinetics of Ca(v)1.2 (Lc-type) and Ca(v)2.2 (N-type) Ca2+ channels were modified in oocytes injected with cRNA encoding syntaxin 1A and SNAP-25. Conserved cysteines (Cys271, Cys272) within the syntaxin 1A transmembrane domain are essential. Synaptotagmin 1, a vesicle-associated protein, accelerated the activation kinetics indicating Ca(v)2.2 coupling to the vesicle. The unique modifications of Ca(v)1.2 and Ca(v)2.2 kinetics by syntaxin 1A, SNAP-25, and synaptotagmin combined implied excitosome formation, a primed fusion complex of the channel with synaptic proteins. The Ca(v)1.2 cytosolic domain Lc(753-893), acted as a dominant negative modulator, competitively inhibiting insulin release of channel-associated vesicles (CAV), the readily releasable pool of vesicles (RRP) in islet cells. A molecular mechanism is offered to explain fast secretion of vesicles tethered to SNAREs-associated Ca2+ channel. The tight arrangement facilitates the propagation of conformational changes induced during depolarization and Ca2+-binding at the channel, to the SNAREs to trigger secretion. The results imply a rapid Ca2+-dependent CAV (RRP) release, initiated by the binding of Ca2+ to the channel, upstream to intracellular Ca2+ sensor thus establishing the Ca2+ channel as the Ca2+ sensor of neurotransmitter release.

SNAP-29: a general SNARE protein that inhibits SNARE disassembly and is implicated in synaptic transmission

Using the yeast two-hybrid system with syntaxin-1A as bait, we isolated soluble NSF attachment protein (SNAP)-29 from a human brain cDNA library. Synaptosomal fractionation and immunocytochemical staining of hippocampal neurons in culture showed that SNAP-29 is present at synapses and is predominantly associated with synaptic vesicles. The interaction of SNAP-29 with syntaxin-1 was further confirmed with immunoprecipitation analysis. Binding competition studies with SNAP-29 demonstrated that it could compete with alpha-SNAP for binding to synaptic SNAP receptors (SNAREs) and consequently inhibit disassembly of the SNARE complex. Introduction of SNAP-29 into presynaptic superior cervical ganglion neurons in culture significantly inhibited synaptic transmission in an activity-dependent manner. Although SNAP-29 has been suggested to be a general SNARE component in membrane trafficking, our findings suggest that it may function as a regulator of SNARE complex disassembly and modulate the process of postfusion recycling of the SNARE components.

The function of Ca(2+) channel subtypes in exocytotic secretion: new perspectives from synaptic and non-synaptic release

By mediating the Ca(2+) influx that triggers exocytotic fusion, Ca(2+) channels play a central role in a wide range of secretory processes. Ca(2+) channels consist of a complex of protein subunits, including an alpha(1) subunit that constitutes the voltage-dependent Ca(2+)-selective membrane pore, and a group of auxiliary subunits, including beta, gamma, and alpha(2)-delta subunits, which modulate channel properties such as inactivation and channel targeting. Subtypes of Ca(2+) channels are constituted by different combinations of alpha(1) subunits (of which 10 have been identified) and auxiliary subunits, particularly beta (of which 4 have been identified). Activity-secretion coupling is determined not only by the biophysical properties of the channels involved, but also by the relationship between channels and the exocytotic apparatus, which may differ between fast and slow types of secretion. Colocalization of Ca(2+) channels at sites of fast release may depend on biochemical interactions between channels and exocytotic proteins. The aim of this article is to review recent work on Ca(2+) channel structure and function in exocytotic secretion. We discuss Ca(2+) channel involvement in selected types of secretion, including central neurotransmission, endocrine and neuroendocrine secretion, and transmission at graded potential synapses. Several different Ca(2+) channel subtypes are involved in these types of secretion, and their function is likely to involve a variety of relationships with the exocytotic apparatus. Elucidating the relationship between Ca(2+) channel structure and function is central to our understanding of the fundamental process of exocytotic secretion.

Interactions between presynaptic Ca2+ channels, cytoplasmic messengers and proteins of the synaptic vesicle release complex

Influx of Ca(2+) through presynaptic voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels is a key step in rapid neurotransmitter release. The amount of Ca(2+) entering through these channels is modulated by a plethora of intracellular messenger molecules, including betagamma-subunits of G proteins, and protein kinases. In addition, Ca(2+) channels bind physically to proteins of the vesicle-release machinery in a Ca(2+)-dependent manner, which can, in turn, regulate the activity of Ca(2+) channels. Recent evidence suggests that second messengers and presynaptic vesicle-release proteins do not regulate Ca(2+) channel activity as independent entities, but that there is extensive crosstalk between these two mechanisms. The complex interactions between second messengers, vesicle-release proteins and voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels might provide multiple avenues for fine-tuning Ca(2+) entry into the presynaptic terminal and, consequently, neurotransmission.

The transmembrane domain of syntaxin 1A negatively regulates voltage-sensitive Ca(2+) channels

Syntaxin 1A has a pronounced inhibitory effect on the activation kinetics and current amplitude of voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels. This study explores the molecular basis of syntaxin interaction with N- and Lc-type Ca(2+) channels by way of functional assays of channel gating in a Xenopus oocytes expression system. A chimera of syntaxin 1A and syntaxin 2 in which the transmembrane domain of syntaxin 2 replaced the transmembrane of syntaxin 1A (Sx1-2), significantly reduced the rate of activation of N- and Lc-channels. This shows a similar effect to that demonstrated by syntaxin 1A, though the current was not inhibited. The major sequence differences at the transmembrane of the syntaxin isoforms are that the two highly conserved cysteines Cys 271 and Cys 272 in syntaxin 1A correspond to the valines Val 272 and Val 273 in syntaxin 2 transmembrane. Mutating either cysteines in Sx1-1 (syntaxin 1A) to valines, did not affect modulation of the channel while a double mutant C271/272V was unable to regulate inward current. Transfer of these two cysteines to the transmembrane of syntaxin 2 by mutating Val 272 and Val 273 to Cys 272 and Cys 273 led to channel inhibition. When cleaved by botulinum toxin, the syntaxin 1A fragments, amino acids 1-253 and 254-288, which includes the transmembrane domain, were both unable to inhibit current amplitude but retained the ability to modify the activation kinetics of the channel. A full-length syntaxin 1A and the integrity of the two cysteines within the transmembrane are crucial for coordinating Ca(2+) entry through the N- and Lc-channels. These results suggest that upon membrane depolarization, the voltage-gated N- and Lc-type Ca(2+)-channels signal the exocytotic machinery by interacting with syntaxin 1A at the transmembrane and the cytosolic domains. Cleavage with botulinum toxin disrupts the coupling of the N- and Lc-type channels with syntaxin 1A and abolishes exocytosis, supporting the hypothesis that these channels actively participate in Ca(2+) regulated secretion.

Functional and physical coupling of voltage-sensitive calcium channels with exocytotic proteins: ramifications for the secretion mechanism

The secretion of neurotransmitters is a rapid Ca(2+)-regulated process that brings about vesicle fusion with the plasma membrane. This rapid process (< 100 microseconds) involves multiple proteins located at the plasma and vesicular membranes. Because of their homology to proteins participating in constitutive secretion and protein trafficking, they have been characterized extensively. The sequential events that lead these proteins to vesicle docking and fusion are still unclear. We will review recent studies that demonstrate the operative role played by voltage-sensitive Ca(2+) channels and discuss the relevance for the process of evoked transmitter release. The regulation of Ca(2+) influx by syntaxin, synaptosome-associated protein of 25 kDa (SNAP-25) and synaptotagmin, and the reciprocity of these proteins in controlling the kinetic properties of the channel will be discussed. Calcium channel and synaptic proteins expressed in Xenopus oocytes demonstrate a strong functional interaction, which could be pertinent to the mechanism of secretion. First, the voltage-sensitive Ca(2+) channels are negatively modulated by syntaxin: this inhibition is reversed by synaptotagmin. Second, the modulation of N-type Ca(2+) channel activation kinetics strongly suggests that the vesicle could be docked at the plasma membrane through direct interaction with synaptotagmin. Finally, these interactions provide evidence for the assembly of the voltage-sensitive Ca(2+) channel with syntaxin 1A, SNAP-25 and synaptotagmin into an excitosome complex: a putative fusion complex with a potential role in the final stages of secretion. Studies suggest that cross-talk between the synaptic proteins and the channel in a tightly organized complex may enable a rapid secretory response to an incoming signal such as membrane depolarization.

Distinct molecular determinants govern syntaxin 1A-mediated inactivation and G-protein inhibition of N-type calcium channels

We have reported recently that syntaxin 1A mediates two effects on N-type channels transiently expressed in tsA-201 cells: a hyperpolarizing shift in the steady-state inactivation curve as well as a tonic inhibition of the channel by G-protein betagamma subunits (Jarvis et al., 2000). Here we have examined some of the molecular determinants and factors that modulate the action of syntaxin 1A on N-type calcium channels. With the additional coexpression of SNAP25, the syntaxin 1A-induced G-protein modulation of the channel became reduced in magnitude by approximately 50% but nonetheless remained significantly higher than the low levels of background inhibition seen with N-type channels alone. In contrast, coexpression of nSec-1 did not reduce the syntaxin 1A-mediated G-protein inhibition; however, interestingly, nSec-1 was able to induce tonic G-protein inhibition even in the absence of syntaxin 1A. Both SNAP25 and nSec-1 blocked the negative shift in half-inactivation potential that was induced by syntaxin 1A. Activation of protein kinase C via phorbol esters or site-directed mutagenesis of three putative PKC consensus sites in the syntaxin 1A binding region of the channel (S802, S896, S898) to glutamic acid (to mimic a permanently phosphorylated state) did not affect the syntaxin 1A-mediated G-protein modulation of the channel. However, in the S896E and S898E mutants, or after PKC-dependent phosphorylation of the wild-type channels, the susceptibility of the channel to undergo shifts in half-inactivation potential was removed. Thus, separate molecular determinants govern the ability of syntaxin 1A to affect N-type channel gating and its modulation by G-proteins.

Quantitative relationship between transmitter release and calcium current at the calyx of held synapse

A newly developed deconvolution method (Neher and Sakaba, 2001) allowed us to resolve the time course of neurotransmitter release at the calyx of Held synapse and to quantify some basic aspects of transmitter release. First, we identified a readily releasable pool (RRP) of synaptic vesicles. We found that the size of the RRP, when tested with trains of strong stimuli, was constant regardless of the exact stimulus patterns, if stimuli were confined to a time interval of approximately 60 msec. For longer-lasting stimulus patterns, recruitment of new vesicles to the RRP made a substantial contribution to the total release. Second, the cooperativity of transmitter release as a function of Ca(2+) current was estimated to be 3-4, which confirmed previous results (Borst and Sakmann, 1999; Wu et al., 1999). Third, an initial small Ca(2+) influx increased the efficiency of Ca(2+) currents in subsequent transmitter release. This type of facilitation was blocked by a high concentration of EGTA (0.5 mm). Fourth, the release rates of synaptic vesicles at this synapse turned out to be heterogeneous: once a highly Ca(2+)-sensitive population of vesicles was consumed, the remaining vesicles released at lower rates. These components of release were more clearly separated in the presence of 0.5 mm EGTA, which prevented the buildup of residual Ca(2+). Conversely, raising the extracellular Ca(2+) concentration facilitated the slower population such that its release characteristics became more similar to those of the faster population under standard conditions. Heterogeneous release probabilities are expected to support the maintenance of synaptic transmission during high-frequency stimulation.

A novel technique that measures peptide secretion on a millisecond timescale reveals rapid changes in release

Neuropeptides are ubiquitous transmitters that have been implicated in a wide variety of physiological and pathological conditions, and it is important to understand the processes that control their secretion. We have developed a technique that measures neuropeptide secretion with high temporal resolution. This method involves placing an electrophysiological "tag" in a neuropeptide prohormone. The tagged prohormone is subsequently expressed together with an ionotropic receptor that binds the tag. Because the neuropeptide of interest and the tag enter the same population of dense core granules, neuropeptide secretion gives rise to fast, synaptic-like currents. Using this method, we show that peptide secretion can be modulated on a millisecond time scale. This technique could be readily adapted to measure the secretion of any neuropeptide.