The ability of the nervous system to perform complex tasks such as sensory perception, learning, and coordinated movement relies on the dynamic release of neurotransmitters at chemical synapses. The secretion of neurotransmitters involves a tightly regulated process of trafficking synaptic vesicles to the plasma membrane of nerve terminals where they fuse and release neurotransmitters onto postsynaptic receptors. A key component in the regulation of synaptic dynamics is the ability of the neuron to control the number of fusable synaptic vesicles. A family of proteins, synapsins, is proposed to play a role in this regulation. This proposal's goal is to further elucidate the function(s) of synapsins.
Aim I will address the differential function of synapsin I and II and whether their function is ATP-dependent through mutations affecting ATP binding.
Aim II will determine whether phosphorylation of synapsins by protein kinase A is necessary for the movement of synaptic vesicles into a 'readily releasable' state.
Aim III will identify a function for the conserved synapsin E domain and proteins that bind to this domain. Knowledge of protein function in neurotransmission may help elucidate the cause of disease related synaptic dysfunction.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
5F32MH070207-03
Application #
7014028
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-F03A (20))
Program Officer
Curvey, Mary F
Project Start
2004-02-01
Project End
2007-01-31
Budget Start
2006-02-01
Budget End
2007-01-31
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
2006
Total Cost
$50,428
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Texas Sw Medical Center Dallas
Department
Neurosciences
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
800771545
City
Dallas
State
TX
Country
United States
Zip Code
75390
Bronk, Peter; Deak, Ferenc; Wilson, Michael C et al. (2007) Differential effects of SNAP-25 deletion on Ca2+ -dependent and Ca2+ -independent neurotransmission. J Neurophysiol 98:794-806