The crystal structure of a large C-terminal fragment of Munc13-1 provides a key framework to understand how Munc13-1 mediates neurotransmitter release and presynaptic plasticity.
Cryo-electron tomography, reconstitution, and electrophysiological data show that a fundamental function of Munc13-1 is to bridge synaptic vesicles to the presynaptic plasma membrane.
Challenging a widespread model, biophysical and electrophysiological experiments suggest a new mechanism whereby complexins inhibit neurotransmitter release through electrostatic repulsion between their accessory helix and the membranes.
Dopamine release within the mouse external globus pallidus, an area of very sparse innervation, is observed and described for the first time through a new technique: flashing false fluorescent neurotransmitters.
A model for synchronous neurotransmitter release suggests that when not in the presence of calcium ions, Synaptotagmin proteins form ring-like structures between the vesicle and plasma membrane that prevent spontaneous fusion.
A combination of advanced optical imaging and cryogenic electron microscopy has been used to explore membrane fusion in a synthetic system and provide new insights into neurotransmitter release.
Fly vision depends on a member of the SLC22 transporter family for recycling the histamine neurotransmitter following its uptake by glia and its modification into the transport metabolite carcinine.
