Single protein plays important dual transport roles in the brain
A single protein, syt-17, is crucial for axon growth and regulation of synaptic communication. Removing the protein blocks axon development, while overproducing it accelerates growth.
Synaptotagmins
Articles tagged with Synaptotagmins
Researchers discover mechanism that allows rapid signal transmission between nerve cells
Researchers at Charité's NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence have identified a protein mechanism responsible for rapid signal transmission between nerve cells. The discovery, published in Nature Neuroscience, reveals that bridging by synaptotagmin allows high-speed transmission via synapse fusion.
Researchers at IST Austria define function of an enigmatic synaptic protein
Scientists at IST Austria have resolved the role of Synaptotagmin 7 during inhibitory synaptic transmission, showing it regulates asynchronous transmitter release and facilitation. The study found Synaptotagmin 7 ensures efficient and frequency-independent signal transmission in the cerebellum and hippocampus.
3-D protein structure offers insight into rapid communication by brain cells
Researchers have visualized the intricate three-dimensional structure of three neural proteins and discovered their surprising cooperation in releasing chemical messages. The study suggests that the complex interaction locks down the SNARE proteins, requiring synchronization of neurotransmitter release.
Scientists find sensor that makes synapses fast
Researchers identified synaptotagmin 2 as the primary calcium sensor responsible for rapid neurotransmitter release in GABAergic synapses, enabling fast signaling speed and precision. This discovery has significant implications for our understanding of microcircuits and motor control in the brain.
A new 'bent' on fusion
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison discovered that synaptotagmin plays a critical role in initiating fusion by bending a target membrane, providing a point of contact for easier merging. The study also found that the protein overcomes fusion deficiency when mutated and compensates with an endocytic protein.
Protein that regulates hormones critical to women's health found in pituitary
A study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers has identified a protein that regulates hormone release in the brain, with implications for women's reproductive health. The protein, Syt IV, tunes the release of hormones oxytocin and vasopressin, which control reproductive functions and fluid balance.
Seeing a neurotoxin's deadly grip
Two research teams discovered detailed views of the toxin plugged into its neuronal receptor, providing new information on how it shuts down neurons. The findings could aid efforts to engineer specialized versions of the neurotoxin used to treat various medical conditions.