Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-2002
Source Publication
Neuron
Abstract
During neurotransmitter release, the neuronal SNARE proteins synaptobrevin/VAMP, syntaxin, and SNAP-25 form a four-helix bundle, the SNARE complex, that pulls the synaptic vesicle and plasma membranes together possibly causing membrane fusion. Complexin binds tightly to the SNARE complex and is essential for efficient Ca2+-evoked neurotransmitter release. A combined X-ray and TROSY-based NMR study now reveals the atomic structure of the complexin/SNARE complex. Complexin binds in an antiparallel α-helical conformation to the groove between the synaptobrevin and syntaxin helices. This interaction stabilizes the interface between these two helices, which bears the repulsive forces between the apposed membranes. These results suggest that complexin stabilizes the fully assembled SNARE complex as a key step that enables the exquisitely high speed of Ca2+-evoked neurotransmitter release.
Recommended Citation
Chen, Xiaocheng; Tomchick, Diana R.; Kovriguine, Evgueni; Araç, Demet; Machius, Mischa; Südhof, Thomas C.; and Rizo, Josep, "Three-Dimensional Structure of the Complexin/SNARE Complex" (2002). Chemistry Faculty Research and Publications. 228.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/chem_fac/228
Comments
Accepted version. Neuron, Vol. 33, No. 3 (January 2002): 397-409. DOI: © 2002 Cell Press. Used with permission.