RIM binding proteins (RBPs) couple Rab3-interacting molecules (RIMs) to voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels

On the targeting of voltage-gated calcium channels to neurotransmitter release sites

At the presynaptic active zone, voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (CaVs) mediate Ca2+ entry for neurotransmitter release. CaVs are a large family of proteins, and different subtypes have distinct localizations across neuronal somata, dendrites and axons. Here, we review how neurons establish and maintain a specific CaV repertoire at their active zones. We focus on molecular determinants for cargo assembly, presynaptic delivery and release site tethering, and we discuss recent work that has identified key roles of the CaV intracellular C-terminus. Finally, we evaluate how these mechanisms may differ between different types of neurons. Work on CaVs provides insight into the protein targeting pathways that help maintain neuronal polarity.

Functional specificity of liquid-liquid phase separation at the synapse

The mechanisms that enable synapses to achieve temporally and spatially precise signaling at nano-scale while being fluid with the cytosol are poorly understood. Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is emerging as a key principle governing subcellular organization; however, the impact of synaptic LLPS on neurotransmission is unclear. Here, using rat primary hippocampal cultures, we show that robust disruption of neuronal LLPS with aliphatic alcohols severely dysregulates action potential-dependent neurotransmission, while spontaneous neurotransmission persists. Synaptic LLPS maintains synaptic vesicle pool clustering and recycling as well as the precise organization of active zone RIM1/2 and Munc13 nanoclusters, thus supporting fast evoked Ca2+-dependent release. These results indicate although LLPS is necessary within the nanodomain of the synapse, the disruption of this nano-organization largely spares spontaneous neurotransmission. Therefore, properties of in vitro micron sized liquid condensates translate to the nano-structure of the synapse in a functionally specific manner regulating action potential-evoked release.

Exome Sequencing Has a High Diagnostic Rate in Sporadic Congenital Hypopituitarism and Reveals Novel Candidate Genes

CONTEXT

The pituitary gland is key for childhood growth, puberty, and metabolism. Pituitary dysfunction is associated with a spectrum of phenotypes, from mild to severe. Congenital hypopituitarism (CH) is the most commonly reported pediatric endocrine dysfunction, with an incidence of 1:4000, yet low rates of genetic diagnosis have been reported.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to unveil the genetic etiology of CH in a large cohort of patients from Argentina.

METHODS

We performed whole exome sequencing of 137 unrelated cases of CH, the largest cohort examined with this method to date.

RESULTS

Of the 137 cases, 19.1% and 16% carried pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants in known and new genes, respectively, while 28.2% carried variants of uncertain significance. This high yield was achieved through the integration of broad gene panels (genes described in animal models and/or other disorders), an unbiased candidate gene screen with a new bioinformatics pipeline (including genes with high loss-of-function intolerance), and analysis of copy number variants. Three novel findings emerged. First, the most prevalent affected gene encodes the cell adhesion factor ROBO1. Affected children had a spectrum of phenotypes, consistent with a role beyond pituitary stalk interruption syndrome. Second, we found that CHD7 mutations also produce a phenotypic spectrum, not always associated with full CHARGE syndrome. Third, we add new evidence of pathogenicity in the genes PIBF1 and TBC1D32, and report 13 novel candidate genes associated with CH (eg, PTPN6, ARID5B).

CONCLUSION

Overall, these results provide an unprecedented insight into the diverse genetic etiology of hypopituitarism.

Distinct active zone protein machineries mediate Ca2+ channel clustering and vesicle priming at hippocampal synapses

Action potentials trigger neurotransmitter release at the presynaptic active zone with spatiotemporal precision. This is supported by protein machinery that mediates synaptic vesicle priming and clustering of CaV2 Ca2+ channels nearby. One model posits that scaffolding proteins directly tether vesicles to CaV2s; however, here we find that at mouse hippocampal synapses, CaV2 clustering and vesicle priming are executed by separate machineries. CaV2 nanoclusters are positioned at variable distances from those of the priming protein Munc13. The active zone organizer RIM anchors both proteins but distinct interaction motifs independently execute these functions. In transfected cells, Liprin-α and RIM form co-assemblies that are separate from CaV2-organizing complexes. At synapses, Liprin-α1-Liprin-α4 knockout impairs vesicle priming but not CaV2 clustering. The cell adhesion protein PTPσ recruits Liprin-α, RIM and Munc13 into priming complexes without co-clustering CaV2s. We conclude that active zones consist of distinct machineries to organize CaV2s and prime vesicles, and Liprin-α and PTPσ specifically support priming site assembly.

RIM and RIM-Binding Protein Localize Synaptic CaV2 Channels to Differentially Regulate Transmission in Neuronal Circuits

At chemical synapses, voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (VGCCs) translate electrical signals into a trigger for synaptic vesicle (SV) fusion. VGCCs and the Ca2+ microdomains they elicit must be located precisely to primed SVs to evoke rapid transmitter release. Localization is mediated by Rab3-interacting molecule (RIM) and RIM-binding proteins, which interact and bind to the C terminus of the CaV2 VGCC α-subunit. We studied this machinery at the mixed cholinergic/GABAergic neuromuscular junction of Caenorhabditis elegans hermaphrodites. rimb-1 mutants had mild synaptic defects, through loosening the anchoring of UNC-2/CaV2 and delaying the onset of SV fusion. UNC-10/RIM deletion much more severely affected transmission. Although postsynaptic depolarization was reduced, rimb-1 mutants had increased cholinergic (but reduced GABAergic) transmission, to compensate for the delayed release. This did not occur when the excitation-inhibition (E-I) balance was altered by removing GABA transmission. Further analyses of GABA defective mutants and GABAA or GABAB receptor deletions, as well as cholinergic rescue of RIMB-1, emphasized that GABA neurons may be more affected than cholinergic neurons. Thus, RIMB-1 function differentially affects excitation-inhibition balance in the different motor neurons, and RIMB-1 thus may differentially regulate transmission within circuits. Untethering the UNC-2/CaV2 channel by removing its C-terminal PDZ ligand exacerbated the rimb-1 defects, and similar phenotypes resulted from acute degradation of the CaV2 β-subunit CCB-1. Therefore, untethering of the CaV2 complex is as severe as its elimination, yet it does not abolish transmission, likely due to compensation by CaV1. Thus, robustness and flexibility of synaptic transmission emerge from VGCC regulation.

The intracellular C-terminus confers compartment-specific targeting of voltage-gated calcium channels

To achieve the functional polarization that underlies brain computation, neurons sort protein material into distinct compartments. Ion channel composition, for example, differs between axons and dendrites, but the molecular determinants for their polarized trafficking remain obscure. Here, we identify mechanisms that target voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (CaVs) to distinct subcellular compartments. In hippocampal neurons, CaV2s trigger neurotransmitter release at the presynaptic active zone, and CaV1s localize somatodendritically. After knockout of all three CaV2s, expression of CaV2.1, but not CaV1.3, restores neurotransmitter release. We find that chimeric CaV1.3s with CaV2.1 intracellular C-termini localize to the active zone, mediate synaptic vesicle exocytosis, and render release sensitive to CaV1 blockers. This dominant targeting function of the CaV2.1 C-terminus requires the first EF hand in its proximal segment, and replacement of the CaV2.1 C-terminus with that of CaV1.3 abolishes CaV2.1 active zone localization and function. We conclude that CaV intracellular C-termini mediate compartment-specific targeting.

High-Resolution Proteomics Unravel a Native Functional Complex of Cav1.3, SK3, and Hyperpolarization-Activated Cyclic Nucleotide-Gated Channels in Midbrain Dopaminergic Neurons

Pacemaking activity in substantia nigra dopaminergic neurons is generated by the coordinated activity of a variety of distinct somatodendritic voltage- and calcium-gated ion channels. We investigated whether these functional interactions could arise from a common localization in macromolecular complexes where physical proximity would allow for efficient interaction and co-regulations. For that purpose, we immunopurified six ion channel proteins involved in substantia nigra neuron autonomous firing to identify their molecular interactions. The ion channels chosen as bait were Cav1.2, Cav1.3, HCN2, HCN4, Kv4.3, and SK3 channel proteins, and the methods chosen to determine interactions were co-immunoprecipitation analyzed through immunoblot and mass spectrometry as well as proximity ligation assay. A macromolecular complex composed of Cav1.3, HCN, and SK3 channels was unraveled. In addition, novel potential interactions between SK3 channels and sclerosis tuberous complex (Tsc) proteins, inhibitors of mTOR, and between HCN4 channels and the pro-degenerative protein Sarm1 were uncovered. In order to demonstrate the presence of these molecular interactions in situ, we used proximity ligation assay (PLA) imaging on midbrain slices containing the substantia nigra, and we could ascertain the presence of these protein complexes specifically in substantia nigra dopaminergic neurons. Based on the complementary functional role of the ion channels in the macromolecular complex identified, these results suggest that such tight interactions could partly underly the robustness of pacemaking in dopaminergic neurons.

RIM-BP2 regulates Ca2+ channel abundance and neurotransmitter release at hippocampal mossy fiber terminals

Synaptic vesicles dock and fuse at the presynaptic active zone (AZ), the specialized site for transmitter release. AZ proteins play multiple roles such as recruitment of Ca2+ channels as well as synaptic vesicle docking, priming, and fusion. However, the precise role of each AZ protein type remains unknown. In order to dissect the role of RIM-BP2 at mammalian cortical synapses having low release probability, we applied direct electrophysiological recording and super-resolution imaging to hippocampal mossy fiber terminals of RIM-BP2 knockout (KO) mice. By using direct presynaptic recording, we found the reduced Ca2+ currents. The measurements of excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) and presynaptic capacitance suggested that the initial release probability was lowered because of the reduced Ca2+ influx and impaired fusion competence in RIM-BP2 KO. Nevertheless, larger Ca2+ influx restored release partially. Consistent with presynaptic recording, STED microscopy suggested less abundance of P/Q-type Ca2+ channels at AZs deficient in RIM-BP2. Our results suggest that the RIM-BP2 regulates both Ca2+ channel abundance and transmitter release at mossy fiber synapses.

Polygenic profiles define aspects of clinical heterogeneity in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a complex disorder that manifests variability in long-term outcomes and clinical presentations. The genetic contributions to such heterogeneity are not well understood. Here we show several genetic links to clinical heterogeneity in ADHD in a case-only study of 14,084 diagnosed individuals. First, we identify one genome-wide significant locus by comparing cases with ADHD and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to cases with ADHD but not ASD. Second, we show that cases with ASD and ADHD, substance use disorder and ADHD, or first diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood have unique polygenic score (PGS) profiles that distinguish them from complementary case subgroups and controls. Finally, a PGS for an ASD diagnosis in ADHD cases predicted cognitive performance in an independent developmental cohort. Our approach uncovered evidence of genetic heterogeneity in ADHD, helping us to understand its etiology and providing a model for studies of other disorders.

Functional Classification and Interaction Selectivity Landscape of the Human SH3 Domain Superfamily

SRC homology 3 (SH3) domains are critical interaction modules that orchestrate the assembly of protein complexes involved in diverse biological processes. They facilitate transient protein-protein interactions by selectively interacting with proline-rich motifs (PRMs). A database search revealed 298 SH3 domains in 221 human proteins. Multiple sequence alignment of human SH3 domains is useful for phylogenetic analysis and determination of their selectivity towards PRM-containing peptides (PRPs). However, a more precise functional classification of SH3 domains is achieved by constructing a phylogenetic tree only from PRM-binding residues and using existing SH3 domain-PRP structures and biochemical data to determine the specificity within each of the 10 families for particular PRPs. In addition, the C-terminal proline-rich domain of the RAS activator SOS1 covers 13 of the 14 recognized proline-rich consensus sequence motifs, encompassing differential PRP pattern selectivity among all SH3 families. To evaluate the binding capabilities and affinities, we conducted fluorescence dot blot and polarization experiments using 25 representative SH3 domains and various PRPs derived from SOS1. Our analysis has identified 45 interacting pairs, with binding affinities ranging from 0.2 to 125 micromolar, out of 300 tested and potential new SH3 domain-SOS1 interactions. Furthermore, it establishes a framework to bridge the gap between SH3 and PRP interactions and provides predictive insights into the potential interactions of SH3 domains with PRMs based on sequence specifications. This novel framework has the potential to enhance the understanding of protein networks mediated by SH3 domain-PRM interactions and be utilized as a general approach for other domain-peptide interactions.

The intracellular C-terminus confers compartment-specific targeting of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels

To achieve the functional polarization that underlies brain computation, neurons sort protein material into distinct compartments. Ion channel composition, for example, differs between axons and dendrites, but the molecular determinants for their polarized trafficking remain obscure. Here, we identify the mechanisms that target voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (CaVs) to distinct subcellular compartments. In hippocampal neurons, CaV2s trigger neurotransmitter release at the presynaptic active zone, and CaV1s localize somatodendritically. After knockout of all three CaV2s, expression of CaV2.1, but not of CaV1.3, restores neurotransmitter release. Chimeric CaV1.3 channels with CaV2.1 intracellular C-termini localize to the active zone, mediate synaptic vesicle exocytosis, and render release fully sensitive to blockade of CaV1 channels. This dominant targeting function of the CaV2.1 C-terminus requires an EF hand in its proximal segment, and replacement of the CaV2.1 C-terminus with that of CaV1.3 abolishes CaV2.1 active zone localization. We conclude that the intracellular C-termini mediate compartment-specific CaV targeting.

Nanoscaled RIM clustering at presynaptic active zones revealed by endogenous tagging

Chemical synaptic transmission involves neurotransmitter release from presynaptic active zones (AZs). The AZ protein Rab-3-interacting molecule (RIM) is important for normal Ca2+-triggered release. However, its precise localization within AZs of the glutamatergic neuromuscular junctions of Drosophila melanogaster remains elusive. We used CRISPR/Cas9-assisted genome engineering of the rim locus to incorporate small epitope tags for targeted super-resolution imaging. A V5-tag, derived from simian virus 5, and an HA-tag, derived from human influenza virus, were N-terminally fused to the RIM Zinc finger. Whereas both variants are expressed in co-localization with the core AZ scaffold Bruchpilot, electrophysiological characterization reveals that AP-evoked synaptic release is disturbed in rimV5-Znf but not in rimHA-Znf In addition, rimHA-Znf synapses show intact presynaptic homeostatic potentiation. Combining super-resolution localization microscopy and hierarchical clustering, we detect ∼10 RIMHA-Znf subclusters with ∼13 nm diameter per AZ that are compacted and increased in numbers in presynaptic homeostatic potentiation.

The role of specific isoforms of CaV2 and the common C-terminal of CaV2 in calcium channel function in sensory neurons of Aplysia

The presynaptic release apparatus can be specialized to enable specific synaptic functions. Habituation is the diminishing of a physiological response to a frequently repeated stimulus and in Aplysia, habituation to touch is mediated by a decrease in transmitter release from the sensory neurons that respond to touch even after modest rates of action potential firing. This synaptic depression is not common among Aplysia synaptic connections suggesting the presence of a release apparatus specialized for this depression. We found that specific splice forms of ApCaV2, the calcium channel required for transmitter release, are preferentially used in sensory neurons, consistent with a specialized release apparatus. However, we were not able to find a specific ApCaV2 splice uniquely required for synaptic depression. The C-terminus of ApCaV2 alpha1 subunit retains conserved binding to Aplysia rab-3 interacting molecule (ApRIM) and ApRIM-binding protein (ApRBP) and the C-terminus is required for full synaptic expression of ApCaV2. We also identified a splice form of ApRIM that did not interact with the ApCav2 alpha 1 subunit, but it was not preferentially used in sensory neurons.

Molecular definition of distinct active zone protein machineries for Ca2+ channel clustering and synaptic vesicle priming

Action potentials trigger neurotransmitter release with minimal delay. Active zones mediate this temporal precision by co-organizing primed vesicles with CaV2 Ca2+ channels. The presumed model is that scaffolding proteins directly tether primed vesicles to CaV2s. We find that CaV2 clustering and vesicle priming are executed by separate machineries. At hippocampal synapses, CaV2 nanoclusters are positioned at variable distances from those of the priming protein Munc13. The active zone organizer RIM anchors both proteins, but distinct interaction motifs independently execute these functions. In heterologous cells, Liprin-α and RIM from co-assemblies that are separate from CaV2-organizing complexes upon co-transfection. At synapses, Liprin-α1-4 knockout impairs vesicle priming, but not CaV2 clustering. The cell adhesion protein PTPσ recruits Liprin-α, RIM and Munc13 into priming complexes without co-clustering of CaV2s. We conclude that active zones consist of distinct complexes to organize CaV2s and vesicle priming, and Liprin-α and PTPσ specifically support priming site assembly.

The Interplay Between Splicing of Two Exon Combinations Differentially Affects Membrane Targeting and Function of Human CaV2.2

N-type calcium channels (CaV2.2) are predominantly localized in presynaptic terminals, and are particularly important for pain transmission in the spinal cord. Furthermore, they have multiple isoforms, conferred by alternatively spliced or cassette exons, which are differentially expressed. Here, we have examined alternatively spliced exon47 variants that encode a long or short C-terminus in human CaV2.2. In the Ensembl database, all short exon47-containing transcripts were associated with the absence of exon18a, therefore, we also examined the effect of inclusion or absence of exon18a, combinatorially with the exon47 splice variants. We found that long exon47, only in the additional presence of exon18a, results in CaV2.2 currents that have a 3.6-fold greater maximum conductance than the other three combinations. In contrast, cell-surface expression of CaV2.2 in both tsA-201 cells and hippocampal neurons is increased ∼4-fold by long exon47, relative to short exon47, in either the presence or the absence of exon18a. This surprising discrepancy between trafficking and function indicates that cell-surface expression is enhanced by long exon47, independently of exon18a. However, in the presence of long exon47, exon18a mediates an additional permissive effect on CaV2.2 gating. We also investigated the single-nucleotide polymorphism in exon47 that has been linked to schizophrenia and Parkinson's disease, which we found is only non-synonymous in the short exon47 C-terminal isoform, resulting in two minor alleles. This study highlights the importance of investigating the combinatorial effects of exon inclusion, rather than each in isolation, in order to increase our understanding of calcium channel function.

Active Zone Trafficking of CaV2/UNC-2 Channels Is Independent of β/CCB-1 and α2δ/UNC-36 Subunits

The CaV2 voltage-gated calcium channel is the major conduit of calcium ions necessary for neurotransmitter release at presynaptic active zones (AZs). The CaV2 channel is a multimeric complex that consists of a pore-forming α1 subunit and two auxiliary β and α2δ subunits. Although auxiliary subunits are critical for channel function, whether they are required for α1 trafficking is unresolved. Using endogenously fluorescent protein-tagged CaV2 channel subunits in Caenorhabditis elegans, we show that UNC-2/α1 localizes to AZs even in the absence of CCB-1/β or UNC-36/α2δ, albeit at low levels. When UNC-2 is manipulated to be trapped in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), CCB-1 and UNC-36 fail to colocalize with UNC-2 in the ER, indicating that they do not coassemble with UNC-2 in the ER. Moreover, blocking ER-associated degradation does not further increase presynaptic UNC-2 channels in ccb-1 or unc-36 mutants, indicating that UNC-2 levels are not regulated in the ER. An unc-2 mutant lacking C-terminal AZ protein interaction sites with intact auxiliary subunit binding sites displays persistent presynaptic UNC-2 localization and a prominent increase of UNC-2 channels in nonsynaptic axonal regions, underscoring a protective role of auxiliary subunits against UNC-2 degradation. In the absence of UNC-2, presynaptic CCB-1 and UNC-36 are profoundly diminished to barely detectable levels, indicating that UNC-2 is required for the presynaptic localization of CCB-1 and UNC-36. Together, our findings demonstrate that although the pore-forming subunit does not require auxiliary subunits for its trafficking and transport to AZs, it recruits auxiliary subunits to stabilize and expand calcium channel signalosomes.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Synaptic transmission in the neuron hinges on the coupling of synaptic vesicle exocytosis with calcium influx. This calcium influx is mediated by CaV2 voltage-gated calcium channels. These channels consist of one pore-forming α1 subunit and two auxiliary β and α2δ subunits. The auxiliary subunits enhance channel function and regulate the overall level of channels at presynaptic terminals. However, it is not settled how these auxiliary subunits regulate the overall channel level. Our study in C. elegans finds that although the auxiliary subunits do not coassemble with α1 and aid trafficking, they are recruited to α1 and stabilize the channel complex at presynaptic terminals. Our study suggests that drugs that target the auxiliary subunits can directly destabilize and have an impact on CaV2 channels.

C. elegans Clarinet/CLA-1 recruits RIMB-1/RIM-binding protein and UNC-13 to orchestrate presynaptic neurotransmitter release

Synaptic transmission requires the coordinated activity of multiple synaptic proteins that are localized at the active zone (AZ). We previously identified a Caenorhabditis elegans protein named Clarinet (CLA-1) based on homology to the AZ proteins Piccolo, Rab3-interactingmolecule (RIM)/UNC-10 and Fife. At the neuromuscular junction (NMJ), cla-1 null mutants exhibit release defects that are greatly exacerbated in cla-1;unc-10 double mutants. To gain insights into the coordinated roles of CLA-1 and UNC-10, we examined the relative contributions of each to the function and organization of the AZ. Using a combination of electrophysiology, electron microscopy, and quantitative fluorescence imaging we explored the functional relationship of CLA-1 to other key AZ proteins including: RIM1, Cav2.1 channels, RIM1-binding protein, and Munc13 (C. elegans UNC-10, UNC-2, RIMB-1 and UNC-13, respectively). Our analyses show that CLA-1 acts in concert with UNC-10 to regulate UNC-2 calcium channel levels at the synapse via recruitment of RIMB-1. In addition, CLA-1 exerts a RIMB-1-independent role in the localization of the priming factor UNC-13. Thus C. elegans CLA-1/UNC-10 exhibit combinatorial effects that have overlapping design principles with other model organisms: RIM/RBP and RIM/ELKS in mouse and Fife/RIM and BRP/RBP in Drosophila. These data support a semiconserved arrangement of AZ scaffolding proteins that are necessary for the localization and activation of the fusion machinery within nanodomains for precise coupling to Ca2+ channels.

The role of RIM in neurotransmitter release: promotion of synaptic vesicle docking, priming, and fusion

There are many special sites at the end of a synapse called active zones (AZs). Synaptic vesicles (SVs) fuse with presynaptic membranes at these sites, and this fusion is an important step in neurotransmitter release. The cytomatrix in the active zone (CAZ) is made up of proteins such as the regulating synaptic membrane exocytosis protein (RIM), RIM-binding proteins (RIM-BPs), ELKS/CAST, Bassoon/Piccolo, Liprin-α, and Munc13-1. RIM is a scaffold protein that interacts with CAZ proteins and presynaptic functional components to affect the docking, priming, and fusion of SVs. RIM is believed to play an important role in regulating the release of neurotransmitters (NTs). In addition, abnormal expression of RIM has been detected in many diseases, such as retinal diseases, Asperger's syndrome (AS), and degenerative scoliosis. Therefore, we believe that studying the molecular structure of RIM and its role in neurotransmitter release will help to clarify the molecular mechanism of neurotransmitter release and identify targets for the diagnosis and treatment of the aforementioned diseases.

Interactive nanocluster compaction of the ELKS scaffold and Cacophony Ca2+ channels drives sustained active zone potentiation

At presynaptic active zones (AZs), conserved scaffold protein architectures control synaptic vesicle (SV) release by defining the nanoscale distribution and density of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (VGCCs). While AZs can potentiate SV release in the minutes range, we lack an understanding of how AZ scaffold components and VGCCs engage into potentiation. We here establish dynamic, intravital single-molecule imaging of endogenously tagged proteins at Drosophila AZs undergoing presynaptic homeostatic potentiation. During potentiation, the numbers of α1 VGCC subunit Cacophony (Cac) increased per AZ, while their mobility decreased and nanoscale distribution compacted. These dynamic Cac changes depended on the interaction between Cac channel's intracellular carboxyl terminus and the membrane-close amino-terminal region of the ELKS-family protein Bruchpilot, whose distribution compacted drastically. The Cac-ELKS/Bruchpilot interaction was also needed for sustained AZ potentiation. Our single-molecule analysis illustrates how the AZ scaffold couples to VGCC nanoscale distribution and dynamics to establish a state of sustained potentiation.

Mechanisms controlling the trafficking, localization, and abundance of presynaptic Ca2+ channels

Voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (VGCCs) mediate Ca2+ influx to trigger neurotransmitter release at specialized presynaptic sites termed active zones (AZs). The abundance of VGCCs at AZs regulates neurotransmitter release probability (Pr ), a key presynaptic determinant of synaptic strength. Given this functional significance, defining the processes that cooperate to establish AZ VGCC abundance is critical for understanding how these mechanisms set synaptic strength and how they might be regulated to control presynaptic plasticity. VGCC abundance at AZs involves multiple steps, including channel biosynthesis (transcription, translation, and trafficking through the endomembrane system), forward axonal trafficking and delivery to synaptic terminals, incorporation and retention at presynaptic sites, and protein recycling. Here we discuss mechanisms that control VGCC abundance at synapses, highlighting findings from invertebrate and vertebrate models.

Synaptic Development in Diverse Olfactory Neuron Classes Uses Distinct Temporal and Activity-Related Programs

Developing neurons must meet core molecular, cellular, and temporal requirements to ensure the correct formation of synapses, resulting in functional circuits. However, because of the vast diversity in neuronal class and function, it is unclear whether or not all neurons use the same organizational mechanisms to form synaptic connections and achieve functional and morphologic maturation. Moreover, it remains unknown whether neurons united in a common goal and comprising the same sensory circuit develop on similar timescales and use identical molecular approaches to ensure the formation of the correct number of synapses. To begin to answer these questions, we took advantage of the Drosophila antennal lobe (AL), a model olfactory circuit with remarkable genetic access and synapse-level resolution. Using tissue-specific genetic labeling of active zones, we performed a quantitative analysis of synapse formation in multiple classes of neurons of both sexes throughout development and adulthood. We found that olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs), projection neurons (PNs), and local interneurons (LNs) each have unique time courses of synaptic development, addition, and refinement, demonstrating that each class follows a distinct developmental program. This raised the possibility that these classes may also have distinct molecular requirements for synapse formation. We genetically altered neuronal activity in each neuronal subtype and observed differing effects on synapse number based on the neuronal class examined. Silencing neuronal activity in ORNs, PNs, and LNs impaired synaptic development but only in ORNs did enhancing neuronal activity influence synapse formation. ORNs and LNs demonstrated similar impairment of synaptic development with enhanced activity of a master kinase, GSK-3β, suggesting that neuronal activity and GSK-3β kinase activity function in a common pathway. ORNs also, however, demonstrated impaired synaptic development with GSK-3β loss-of-function, suggesting additional activity-independent roles in development. Ultimately, our results suggest that the requirements for synaptic development are not uniform across all neuronal classes with considerable diversity existing in both their developmental time frames and molecular requirements. These findings provide novel insights into the mechanisms of synaptic development and lay the foundation for future work determining their underlying etiologies.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Distinct olfactory neuron classes in Drosophila develop a mature synaptic complement over unique timelines and using distinct activity-dependent and molecular programs, despite having the same generalized goal of olfactory sensation.

Regulation of Presynaptic Calcium Channels

Voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs), especially Cav2.1 and Cav2.2, are the major mediators of Ca2+ influx at the presynaptic membrane in response to neuron excitation, thereby exerting a predominant control on synaptic transmission. To guarantee the timely and precise release of neurotransmitters at synapses, the activity of presynaptic VGCCs is tightly regulated by a variety of factors, including auxiliary subunits, membrane potential, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), calmodulin (CaM), Ca2+-binding proteins (CaBP), protein kinases, various interacting proteins, alternative splicing events, and genetic variations.

Presynaptic Cytomatrix Proteins

The Cytomatrix Assembled at the active Zone (CAZ) of a presynaptic terminal displays electron-dense appearance and defines the center of the synaptic vesicle release. The protein constituents of CAZ are multiple-domain scaffolds that interact extensively with each other and also with an ensemble of synaptic vesicle proteins to ensure docking, fusion, and recycling. Reflecting the central roles of the active zone in synaptic transmission, CAZ proteins are highly conserved throughout evolution. As the nervous system increases complexity and diversity in types of neurons and synapses, CAZ proteins expand in the number of gene and protein isoforms and interacting partners. This chapter summarizes the discovery of the core CAZ proteins and current knowledge of their functions.

Photoreceptor Ion Channels in Signaling and Disease

Photoreceptors (PRs) in the neural retina convert photon capture into an electrical signal that is communicated across a chemical synapse to second-order neurons in the retina and on through the rest of the visual pathway. This information is decoded in the visual cortex to create images. The activity of PRs depends on the concerted action of several voltage-gated ion channels that will be discussed in this chapter.

Diverse organization of voltage-gated calcium channels at presynaptic active zones

Synapses are highly organized but are also highly diverse in their organization and properties to allow for optimizing the computing power of brain circuits. Along these lines, voltage-gated calcium (CaV) channels at the presynaptic active zone are heterogeneously organized, which creates a variety of calcium dynamics profiles that can shape neurotransmitter release properties of individual synapses. Extensive studies have revealed striking diversity in the subtype, number, and distribution of CaV channels, as well as the nanoscale topographic relationships to docked synaptic vesicles. Further, multi-protein complexes including RIMs, RIM-binding proteins, CAST/ELKS, and neurexins are required for coordinating the diverse organization of CaV channels at the presynaptic active zone. In this review, we highlight major advances in the studies of the functional organization of presynaptic CaV channels and discuss their physiological implications for synaptic transmission and short-term plasticity.

Ultrastructural analysis of wild-type and RIM1α knockout active zones in a large cortical synapse

Rab3A-interacting molecule (RIM) is crucial for fast Ca²⁺-triggered synaptic vesicle (SV) release in presynaptic active zones (AZs). We investigated hippocampal giant mossy fiber bouton (MFB) AZ architecture in 3D using electron tomography of rapid cryo-immobilized acute brain slices in RIM1α^-/- and wild-type mice. In RIM1α^-/-, AZs are larger with increased synaptic cleft widths and a 3-fold reduced number of tightly docked SVs (0-2 nm). The distance of tightly docked SVs to the AZ center is increased from 110 to 195 nm, and the width of their electron-dense material between outer SV membrane and AZ membrane is reduced. Furthermore, the SV pool in RIM1α^-/- is more heterogeneous. Thus, RIM1α, besides its role in tight SV docking, is crucial for synaptic architecture and vesicle pool organization in MFBs.

A survey of protein interactions and posttranslational modifications that influence the polyglutamine diseases

The presence and aggregation of misfolded proteins has deleterious effects in the nervous system. Among the various diseases caused by misfolded proteins is the family of the polyglutamine (polyQ) disorders. This family comprises nine members, all stemming from the same mutation—the abnormal elongation of a polyQ repeat in nine different proteins—which causes protein misfolding and aggregation, cellular dysfunction and disease. While it is the same type of mutation that causes them, each disease is distinct: it is influenced by regions and domains that surround the polyQ repeat; by proteins with which they interact; and by posttranslational modifications they receive. Here, we overview the role of non-polyQ regions that control the pathogenicity of the expanded polyQ repeat. We begin by introducing each polyQ disease, the genes affected, and the symptoms experienced by patients. Subsequently, we provide a survey of protein-protein interactions and posttranslational modifications that regulate polyQ toxicity. We conclude by discussing shared processes and pathways that bring some of the polyQ diseases together and may serve as common therapeutic entry points for this family of incurable disorders.

Polybasic Patches in Both C2 Domains of Synaptotagmin-1 Are Required for Evoked Neurotransmitter Release

Synaptotagmin-1 (Syt1) is a vesicular calcium sensor required for synchronous neurotransmitter release, composed of a single-pass transmembrane domain linked to two C2 domains (C2A and C2B) that bind calcium, acidic lipids, and SNARE proteins that drive fusion of the synaptic vesicle with the plasma membrane. Despite its essential role, how Syt1 couples calcium entry to synchronous release is poorly understood. Calcium binding to C2B is critical for synchronous release, and C2B additionally binds the SNARE complex. The C2A domain is also required for Syt1 function, but it is not clear why. Here, we asked what critical feature of C2A may be responsible for its functional role and compared this to the analogous feature in C2B. We focused on highly conserved poly-lysine patches located on the sides of C2A (K189-192) and C2B (K324-327). We tested effects of charge-neutralization mutations in either region (Syt1K189-192A and Syt1K326-327A) side by side to determine their relative contributions to Syt1 function in cultured cortical neurons from mice of either sex and in single-molecule experiments. Combining electrophysiological recordings and optical tweezers measurements to probe dynamic single C2 domain-membrane interactions, we show that both C2A and C2B polybasic patches contribute to membrane binding, and both are required for evoked release. The size of the readily releasable vesicle pool and the rate of spontaneous release were unaffected, so both patches are likely required specifically for synchronization of release. We suggest these patches contribute to cooperative membrane binding, increasing the overall affinity of Syt1 for negatively charged membranes and facilitating evoked release.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Synaptotagmin-1 is a vesicular calcium sensor required for synchronous neurotransmitter release. Its tandem cytosolic C2 domains (C2A and C2B) bind calcium, acidic lipids, and SNARE proteins that drive fusion of the synaptic vesicle with the plasma membrane. How calcium binding to Synaptotagmin-1 leads to release and the relative contributions of the C2 domains are unclear. Combining electrophysiological recordings from cultured neurons and optical tweezers measurements of single C2 domain-membrane interactions, we show that conserved polybasic regions in both domains contribute to membrane binding cooperatively, and both are required for evoked release, likely by increasing the overall affinity of Synaptotagmin-1 for acidic membranes.

Resolving the molecular architecture of the photoreceptor active zone with 3D-MINFLUX

Cells assemble macromolecular complexes into scaffoldings that serve as substrates for catalytic processes. Years of molecular neurobiology research indicate that neurotransmission depends on such optimization strategies. However, the molecular topography of the presynaptic active zone (AZ), where transmitter is released upon synaptic vesicle (SV) fusion, remains to be visualized. Therefore, we implemented MINFLUX optical nanoscopy to resolve the AZ of rod photoreceptors. This was facilitated by a novel sample immobilization technique that we name heat-assisted rapid dehydration (HARD), wherein a thin layer of rod synaptic terminals (spherules) was transferred onto glass coverslips from fresh retinal slices. Rod ribbon AZs were readily immunolabeled and imaged in 3D with a precision of a few nanometers. Our 3D-MINFLUX results indicate that the SV release site in rods is a molecular complex of bassoon-RIM2-ubMunc13-2-Ca_v1.4, which repeats longitudinally on both sides of the ribbon.

Mechanisms of Synaptic Vesicle Exo- and Endocytosis

Within 1 millisecond of action potential arrival at presynaptic terminals voltage-gated Ca2+ channels open. The Ca2+ channels are linked to synaptic vesicles which are tethered by active zone proteins. Ca2+ entrance into the active zone triggers: (1) the fusion of the vesicle and exocytosis, (2) the replenishment of the active zone with vesicles for incoming exocytosis, and (3) various types of endocytosis for vesicle reuse, dependent on the pattern of firing. These time-dependent vesicle dynamics are controlled by presynaptic Ca2+ sensor proteins, regulating active zone scaffold proteins, fusion machinery proteins, motor proteins, endocytic proteins, several enzymes, and even Ca2+ channels, following the decay of Ca2+ concentration after the action potential. Here, I summarize the Ca2+-dependent protein controls of synchronous and asynchronous vesicle release, rapid replenishment of the active zone, endocytosis, and short-term plasticity within 100 msec after the action potential. Furthermore, I discuss the contribution of active zone proteins to presynaptic plasticity and to homeostatic readjustment during and after intense activity, in addition to activity-dependent endocytosis.

Rebuilding essential active zone functions within a synapse

Presynaptic active zones are molecular machines that control neurotransmitter secretion. They form sites for vesicle docking and priming and couple vesicles to Ca²⁺ entry for release triggering. The complexity of active zone machinery has made it challenging to determine its mechanisms in release. Simultaneous knockout of the active zone proteins RIM and ELKS disrupts active zone assembly, abolishes vesicle docking, and impairs release. We here rebuild docking, priming, and Ca²⁺ secretion coupling in these mutants without reinstating active zone networks. Re-expression of RIM zinc fingers recruited Munc13 to undocked vesicles and rendered the vesicles release competent. Action potential triggering of release was reconstituted by docking these primed vesicles to Ca²⁺ channels through attaching RIM zinc fingers to Ca_Vβ4-subunits. Our work identifies an 80-kDa β4-Zn protein that bypasses the need for megadalton-sized secretory machines, establishes that fusion competence and docking are mechanistically separable, and defines RIM zinc finger-Munc13 complexes as hubs for active zone function.

Similarity and Diversity of Presynaptic Molecules at Neuromuscular Junctions and Central Synapses

Synaptic transmission is essential for controlling motor functions and maintaining brain functions such as walking, breathing, cognition, learning, and memory. Neurotransmitter release is regulated by presynaptic molecules assembled in active zones of presynaptic terminals. The size of presynaptic terminals varies, but the size of a single active zone and the types of presynaptic molecules are highly conserved among neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) and central synapses. Three parameters play an important role in the determination of neurotransmitter release properties at NMJs and central excitatory/inhibitory synapses: the number of presynaptic molecular clusters, the protein families of the presynaptic molecules, and the distance between presynaptic molecules and voltage-gated calcium channels. In addition, dysfunction of presynaptic molecules causes clinical symptoms such as motor and cognitive decline in patients with various neurological disorders and during aging. This review focuses on the molecular mechanisms responsible for the functional similarities and differences between excitatory and inhibitory synapses in the peripheral and central nervous systems, and summarizes recent findings regarding presynaptic molecules assembled in the active zone. Furthermore, we discuss the relationship between functional alterations of presynaptic molecules and dysfunction of NMJs or central synapses in diseases and during aging.

Diverse Roles of F-BoxProtein3 in Regulation of Various Cellular Functions

Accumulated evidence shows that the F-box protein 3 (FBXO3) has multiple biological functions, including regulation of immune pathologies, neuropathic diseases and antiviral response. In this review article, we focus on the role of FBXO3 in inflammatory disorders and human malignancies. We also describe the substrates of FBXO3, which contribute to inflammatory disorders and cancers. We highlight that the high expression of FBXO3 is frequently observed in rheumatoid arthritis, leukemia, pituitary adenoma, and oral squamous cell carcinoma. Moreover, we discuss the regulation of FBXO3 by both carcinogens and cancer preventive agents. Our review provides a comprehensive understanding of the role of FBXO3 in various biological systems and elucidates how FBXO3 regulates substrate ubiquitination and degradation during various physiological and pathological processes. Therefore, FBXO3 can be a novel target in the treatment of human diseases including carcinomas.

Molecular and functional architecture of striatal dopamine release sites

Despite the importance of dopamine for striatal circuit function, mechanistic understanding of dopamine transmission remains incomplete. We recently showed that dopamine secretion relies on the presynaptic scaffolding protein RIM, indicating that it occurs at active zone-like sites similar to classical synaptic vesicle exocytosis. Here, we establish using a systematic gene knockout approach that Munc13 and Liprin-α, active zone proteins for vesicle priming and release site organization, are important for dopamine secretion. Furthermore, RIM zinc finger and C₂B domains, which bind to Munc13 and Liprin-α, respectively, are needed to restore dopamine release after RIM ablation. In contrast, and different from typical synapses, the active zone scaffolds RIM-BP and ELKS, and RIM domains that bind to them, are expendable. Hence, dopamine release necessitates priming and release site scaffolding by RIM, Munc13, and Liprin-α, but other active zone proteins are dispensable. Our work establishes that efficient release site architecture mediates fast dopamine exocytosis.

More than a pore: How voltage-gated calcium channels act on different levels of neuronal communication regulation

Voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) represent key regulators of the calcium influx through the plasma membrane of excitable cells, like neurons. Activated by the depolarization of the membrane, the opening of VGCCs induces very transient and local changes in the intracellular calcium concentration, known as calcium nanodomains, that in turn trigger calcium-dependent signaling cascades and the release of chemical neurotransmitters. Based on their central importance as concierges of excitation-secretion coupling and therefore neuronal communication, VGCCs have been studied in multiple aspects of neuronal function and malfunction. However, studies on molecular interaction partners and recent progress in omics technologies have extended the actual concept of these molecules. With this review, we want to illustrate some new perspectives of VGCCs reaching beyond their function as calcium-permeable pores in the plasma membrane. Therefore, we will discuss the relevance of VGCCs as voltage sensors in functional complexes with ryanodine receptors, channel-independent actions of auxiliary VGCC subunits, and provide an insight into how VGCCs even directly participate in gene regulation. Furthermore, we will illustrate how structural changes in the intracellular C-terminus of VGCCs generated by alternative splicing events might not only affect the biophysical channel characteristics but rather determine their molecular environment and downstream signaling pathways.

Glycine Release Is Potentiated by cAMP via EPAC2 and Ca2+ Stores in a Retinal Interneuron

Neuromodulation via the intracellular second messenger cAMP is ubiquitous at presynaptic nerve terminals. This modulation of synaptic transmission allows exocytosis to adapt to stimulus levels and reliably encode information. The AII amacrine cell (AII-AC) is a central hub for signal processing in the mammalian retina. The main apical dendrite of the AII-AC is connected to several lobular appendages that release glycine onto OFF cone bipolar cells and ganglion cells. However, the influence of cAMP on glycine release is not well understood. Using membrane capacitance measurements from mouse AII-ACs to directly measure exocytosis, we observe that intracellular dialysis of 1 mm cAMP enhances exocytosis without affecting the L-type Ca²⁺ current. Responses to depolarizing pulses of various durations show that the size of the readily releasable pool of vesicles nearly doubles with cAMP, while paired-pulse depression experiments suggest that release probability does not change. Specific agonists and antagonists for exchange protein activated by cAMP 2 (EPAC2) revealed that the cAMP-induced enhancement of exocytosis requires EPAC2 activation. Furthermore, intact Ca²⁺ stores were also necessary for the cAMP potentiation of exocytosis. Postsynaptic recordings from OFF cone bipolar cells showed that increasing cAMP with forskolin potentiated the frequency of glycinergic spontaneous IPSCs. We propose that cAMP elevations in the AII-AC lead to a robust enhancement of glycine release through an EPAC2 and Ca²⁺ store signaling pathway. Our results thus contribute to a better understanding of how AII-AC crossover inhibitory circuits adapt to changes in ambient luminance.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The mammalian retina operates over a wide dynamic range of light intensities and contrast levels. To optimize the signal-to-noise ratio of processed visual information, both excitatory and inhibitory synapses within the retina must modulate their gain in synaptic transmission to adapt to different levels of ambient light. Here we show that increases of cAMP concentration within AII amacrine cells produce enhanced exocytosis from these glycinergic interneurons. Therefore, we propose that light-sensitive neuromodulators may change the output of glycine release from AII amacrine cells. This novel mechanism may fine-tune the amount of tonic and phasic synaptic inhibition received by bipolar cell terminals and, consequently, the spiking patterns that ganglion cells send to the upstream visual areas of the brain.

Stable and Flexible Synaptic Transmission Controlled by the Active Zone Protein Interactions

An action potential triggers neurotransmitter release from synaptic vesicles docking to a specialized release site of the presynaptic plasma membrane, the active zone. The active zone is a highly organized structure with proteins that serves as a platform for synaptic vesicle exocytosis, mediated by SNAREs complex and Ca²⁺ sensor proteins, within a sub-millisecond opening of nearby Ca²⁺ channels with the membrane depolarization. In response to incoming neuronal signals, each active zone protein plays a role in the release-ready site replenishment with synaptic vesicles for sustainable synaptic transmission. The active zone release apparatus provides a possible link between neuronal activity and plasticity. This review summarizes the mostly physiological role of active zone protein interactions that control synaptic strength, presynaptic short-term plasticity, and homeostatic synaptic plasticity.

TSPO: an emerging role in appetite for a therapeutically promising biomarker

There is accumulating evidence that an obesogenic Western diet causes neuroinflammatory damage to the brain, which then promotes further appetitive behaviour. Neuroinflammation has been extensively studied by analysing the translocator protein of 18 kDa (TSPO), a protein that is upregulated in the inflamed brain following a damaging stimulus. As a result, there is a rich supply of TSPO-specific agonists, antagonists and positron emission tomography ligands. One TSPO ligand, etifoxine, is also currently used clinically for the treatment of anxiety with a minimal side-effect profile. Despite the neuroinflammatory pathogenesis of diet-induced obesity, and the translational potential of targeting TSPO, there is sparse literature characterizing the effect of TSPO on appetite. Therefore, in this review, the influence of TSPO on appetite is discussed. Three putative mechanisms for TSPO's appetite-modulatory effect are then characterized: the TSPO–allopregnanolone–GABA_AR signalling axis, glucosensing in tanycytes and association with the synaptic protein RIM-BP1. We highlight that, in addition to its plethora of functions, TSPO is a regulator of appetite. This review ultimately suggests that the appetite-modulating function of TSPO should be further explored due to its potential therapeutic promise.

Early Metazoan Origin and Multiple Losses of a Novel Clade of RIM Presynaptic Calcium Channel Scaffolding Protein Homologs

The precise localization of Ca_V2 voltage-gated calcium channels at the synapse active zone requires various interacting proteins, of which, Rab3-interacting molecule or RIM is considered particularly important. In vertebrates, RIM interacts with Ca_V2 channels in vitro via a PDZ domain that binds to the extreme C-termini of the channels at acidic ligand motifs of D/E-D/E/H-WC-_COOH, and knockout of RIM in vertebrates and invertebrates disrupts Ca_V2 channel synaptic localization and synapse function. Here, we describe a previously uncharacterized clade of RIM proteins bearing domain architectures homologous to those of known RIM homologs, but with some notable differences including key amino acids associated with PDZ domain ligand specificity. This novel RIM emerged near the stem lineage of metazoans and underwent extensive losses, but is retained in select animals including the early-diverging placozoan Trichoplax adhaerens, and molluscs. RNA expression and localization studies in Trichoplax and the mollusc snail Lymnaea stagnalis indicate differential regional/tissue type expression, but overlapping expression in single isolated neurons from Lymnaea. Ctenophores, the most early-diverging animals with synapses, are unique among animals with nervous systems in that they lack the canonical RIM, bearing only the newly identified homolog. Through phylogenetic analysis, we find that Ca_V2 channel D/E-D/E/H-WC-_COOH like PDZ ligand motifs were present in the common ancestor of cnidarians and bilaterians, and delineate some deeply conserved C-terminal structures that distinguish Ca_V1 from Ca_V2 channels, and Ca_V1/Ca_V2 from Ca_V3 channels.

UNC-2 CaV2 Channel Localization at Presynaptic Active Zones Depends on UNC-10/RIM and SYD-2/Liprin-α in Caenorhabditis elegans

Presynaptic active zone proteins couple calcium influx with synaptic vesicle exocytosis. However, the control of presynaptic calcium channel localization by active zone proteins is not completely understood. In a Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) forward genetic screen, we find that UNC-10/RIM (Rab3-interacting molecule) and SYD-2/Liprin-α regulate presynaptic localization of UNC-2, the CaV2 channel ortholog. We further quantitatively analyzed live animals using endogenously GFP-tagged UNC-2 and active zone components. Consistent with the interaction between RIM and CaV2 in mammals, the intensity and number of UNC-2 channel puncta at presynaptic terminals were greatly reduced in unc-10 mutant animals. To understand how SYD-2 regulates presynaptic UNC-2 channel localization, we analyzed presynaptic localization of endogenous SYD-2, UNC-10, RIMB-1/RIM-BP (RIM binding protein), and ELKS-1. Our analysis revealed that although SYD-2 is the most critical for active zone assembly, loss of SYD-2 function does not completely abolish presynaptic localization of UNC-10, RIMB-1, and ELKS-1, suggesting an existence of SYD-2-independent active zone assembly. UNC-2 localization analysis in double and triple mutants of active zone components show that SYD-2 promotes UNC-2 localization by partially controlling UNC-10 localization, and ELKS-1 and RIMB-1 also contribute to UNC-2 channel localization. In addition, we find that core active zone proteins are unequal in their abundance. Although the abundance of UNC-10 at the active zone is comparable to UNC-2, SYD-2 and ELKS-1 are twice more and RIMB-1 four times more abundant than UNC-2. Together our data show that UNC-10, SYD-2, RIMB-1, and ELKS-1 control presynaptic UNC-2 channel localization in redundant yet distinct manners.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Precise control of neurotransmission is dependent on the tight coupling of the calcium influx through voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) to the exocytosis machinery at the presynaptic active zones. However, how these VGCCs are tethered to the active zone is incompletely understood. To understand the mechanism of presynaptic VGCC localization, we performed a C. elegans forward genetic screen and quantitatively analyzed endogenous active zones and presynaptic VGCCs. In addition to RIM, our study finds that SYD-2/Liprin-α is critical for presynaptic localization of VGCCs. Yet, the loss of SYD-2, a core active zone scaffolding protein, does not completely abolish the presynaptic localization of the VGCC, showing that the active zone is a resilient structure assembled by redundant mechanisms.

A Trio of Active Zone Proteins Comprised of RIM-BPs, RIMs, and Munc13s Governs Neurotransmitter Release

At the presynaptic active zone, action-potential-triggered neurotransmitter release requires that fusion-competent synaptic vesicles are placed next to Ca²⁺ channels. The active zone resident proteins RIM, RBP, and Munc13 are essential contributors for vesicle priming and Ca²⁺-channel recruitment. Although the individual contributions of these scaffolds have been extensively studied, their respective functions in neurotransmission are still incompletely understood. Here, we analyze the functional interactions of RIMs, RBPs, and Munc13s at the genetic, molecular, functional, and ultrastructural levels in a mammalian synapse. We find that RBP, together with Munc13, promotes vesicle priming at the expense of RBP's role in recruiting presynaptic Ca²⁺ channels, suggesting that the support of RBP for vesicle priming and Ca²⁺-secretion coupling is mutually exclusive. Our results demonstrate that the functional interaction of RIM, RBP, and Munc13 is more profound than previously envisioned, acting as a functional trio that govern basic and short-term plasticity properties of neurotransmission.

Development and maintenance of vision's first synapse

Synapses in the outer retina are the first information relay points in vision. Here, photoreceptors form synapses onto two types of interneurons, bipolar cells and horizontal cells. Because outer retina synapses are particularly large and highly ordered, they have been a useful system for the discovery of mechanisms underlying synapse specificity and maintenance. Understanding these processes is critical to efforts aimed at restoring visual function through repairing or replacing neurons and promoting their connectivity. We review outer retina neuron synapse architecture, neural migration modes, and the cellular and molecular pathways that play key roles in the development and maintenance of these connections. We further discuss how these mechanisms may impact connectivity in the retina.

Biallelic variants in TSPOAP1, encoding the active-zone protein RIMBP1, cause autosomal recessive dystonia

Dystonia is a debilitating hyperkinetic movement disorder, which can be transmitted as a monogenic trait. Here, we describe homozygous frameshift, nonsense, and missense variants in TSPOAP1, which encodes the active-zone RIM-binding protein 1 (RIMBP1), as a genetic cause of autosomal recessive dystonia in 7 subjects from 3 unrelated families. Subjects carrying loss-of-function variants presented with juvenile-onset progressive generalized dystonia, associated with intellectual disability and cerebellar atrophy. Conversely, subjects carrying a pathogenic missense variant (p.Gly1808Ser) presented with isolated adult-onset focal dystonia. In mice, complete loss of RIMBP1, known to reduce neurotransmission, led to motor abnormalities reminiscent of dystonia, decreased Purkinje cell dendritic arborization, and reduced numbers of cerebellar synapses. In vitro analysis of the p.Gly1808Ser variant showed larger spike-evoked calcium transients and enhanced neurotransmission, suggesting that RIMBP1-linked dystonia can be caused by either reduced or enhanced rates of spike-evoked release in relevant neural networks. Our findings establish a direct link between dysfunction of the presynaptic active zone and dystonia and highlight the critical role played by well-balanced neurotransmission in motor control and disease pathogenesis.

RIM-Binding Proteins Are Required for Normal Sound-Encoding at Afferent Inner Hair Cell Synapses

The afferent synapses between inner hair cells (IHC) and spiral ganglion neurons are specialized to faithfully encode sound with sub-millisecond precision over prolonged periods of time. Here, we studied the role of Rab3 interacting molecule-binding proteins (RIM-BP) 1 and 2 – multidomain proteins of the active zone known to directly interact with RIMs, Bassoon and Ca_V1.3 – in IHC presynaptic function and hearing. Recordings of auditory brainstem responses and otoacoustic emissions revealed that genetic disruption of RIM-BPs 1 and 2 in mice (RIM-BP1/2^–/–) causes a synaptopathic hearing impairment exceeding that found in mice lacking RIM-BP2 (RIM-BP2^–/–). Patch-clamp recordings from RIM-BP1/2^–/– IHCs indicated a subtle impairment of exocytosis from the readily releasable pool of synaptic vesicles that had not been observed in RIM-BP2^–/– IHCs. In contrast, the reduction of Ca²⁺-influx and sustained exocytosis was similar to that in RIMBP2^–/– IHCs. We conclude that both RIM-BPs are required for normal sound encoding at the IHC synapse, whereby RIM-BP2 seems to take the leading role.

RIM-binding protein couples synaptic vesicle recruitment to release sites

At presynaptic active zones, arrays of large conserved scaffold proteins mediate fast and temporally precise release of synaptic vesicles (SVs). SV release sites could be identified by clusters of Munc13, which allow SVs to dock in defined nanoscale relation to Ca²⁺ channels. We here show in Drosophila that RIM-binding protein (RIM-BP) connects release sites physically and functionally to the ELKS family Bruchpilot (BRP)-based scaffold engaged in SV recruitment. The RIM-BP N-terminal domain, while dispensable for SV release site organization, was crucial for proper nanoscale patterning of the BRP scaffold and needed for SV recruitment of SVs under strong stimulation. Structural analysis further showed that the RIM-BP fibronectin domains form a “hinge” in the protein center, while the C-terminal SH3 domain tandem binds RIM, Munc13, and Ca²⁺ channels release machinery collectively. RIM-BPs’ conserved domain architecture seemingly provides a relay to guide SVs from membrane far scaffolds into membrane close release sites.

Presynaptic voltage-gated calcium channels in the auditory brainstem

Sound information encoding within the initial synapses in the auditory brainstem requires reliable and precise synaptic transmission in response to rapid and large fluctuations in action potential (AP) firing rates. The magnitude and location of Ca²⁺ entry through voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels (Ca_V) in the presynaptic terminal are key determinants in triggering AP-mediated release. In the mammalian central nervous system (CNS), the Ca_V2.1 subtype is the critical subtype for CNS function, since it is the most efficient Ca_V2 subtype in triggering AP-mediated synaptic vesicle (SV) release. Auditory brainstem synapses utilize Ca_V2.1 to sustain fast and repetitive SV release to encode sound information. Therefore, understanding the presynaptic mechanisms that control Ca_V2.1 localization, organization and biophysical properties are integral to understanding auditory processing. Here, we review our current knowledge about the control of presynaptic Ca_V2 abundance and organization in the auditory brainstem and impact on the regulation of auditory processing.

Oligomerized liprin-α promotes phase separation of ELKS for compartmentalization of presynaptic active zone proteins

Synaptic scaffold proteins (e.g., liprin-α, ELKS, RIM, and RIM-BP) orchestrate ion channels, receptors, and enzymes at presynaptic terminals to form active zones for neurotransmitter release. The underlying mechanism of the active zone assembly remains elusive. Here, we report that liprin-α proteins have the potential to oligomerize through the N-terminal coiled-coil region. Our structural and biochemical characterizations reveal that a gain-of-function mutation promotes the self-assembly of the coiled coils in liprin-α2 by disrupting intramolecular interactions and promoting intermolecular interactions. By enabling multivalent interactions with ELKS proteins, the oligomerized coiled-coil region of liprin-α2 enhances the phase separation of the ELKS N-terminal segment. We further show that liprin-α2, by regulating the interplay between two phase separations of ELKS and RIM/RIM-BP, controls the protein distributions. These results imply that the complicated protein-protein interactions allow liprin-α to function with the active zone scaffolds and compartmentalize protein assemblies to achieve comprehensive functions in the active zone.

Impact of RIM-BPs in neuronal vesicles release

Accurate signal transmission between neurons is accomplished by vesicle release with high spatiotemporal resolution in the central nervous system. The vesicle release occurs mainly in the active zone (AZ), a unique area on the presynaptic membrane. Many structural proteins expressed in the AZ connect with other proteins nearby. They can also regulate the precise release of vesicles through protein-protein interactions. RIM-binding proteins (RIM-BPs) are one of the essential proteins in the AZ. This review summarizes the structures and functions of three subtypes of RIM-BPs, including the interaction between RIM-BPs and other proteins such as Bassoon and voltage-gated calcium channel, their significance in stabilizing the AZ structure in the presynaptic region and collecting ion channels, and ultimately regulating the fusion and release of neuronal vesicles.