The fundamental studies of synaptic transmission and synaptogenesis, pioneered at the neuromuscular junction are being rapidly extended to the central nervous system. This conference will focus on those cellular and molecular aspects of synaptic transmission that have led the way in moving the field from the neuromuscular junction to the central nervous system. Specifically, the conference will address mechanisms of pre- and post- synaptic function and their modification with emphasis on neurotransmitter release, ligand gated ion channels, regulation of synaptic transmission, synaptic gene expression and diseases of synaptic transmission. In the last 3 years, there have been many major advances in all aspects of the study of synapses on the structural, functional and molecular level. Most exciting are the new developments in our understanding of pre- synaptic mechanisms with the cloning and identification of many of the proteins involved in release of neurotransmitters and the role of microdomains of calcium in that process. Equally exciting are the current advances in our understanding of the molecular structure of postsynaptic molecules such as the neurotransmitter receptor molecules (e.g. central glutamate, serotonin, or acetylcholine receptor) and peripheral acetylcholine receptors and acetylcholinesterases. New insights have also been obtained in the regulation and modulation of synaptic function. The goals of the meeting are to bring together investigators involved in all aspects of synaptic structure and function during development and in the adult. Most important is our plan to combine presentations on peripheral synapses, especially the neuromuscular junction, with those on neuron- neuronal synapses, progressing from the most molecular to physiological and structural aspects, including studies on synaptic diseases. Most conferences do not deal with both neuromuscular and neuro-neuronal synapses nor do they have such a broad approach, but treat these aspects separately.
