Fife organizes synaptic vesicles and calcium channels for high-probability neurotransmitter release.

ABSTRACT: The strength of synaptic connections varies significantly and is a key determinant of communication within neural circuits. Mechanistic insight into presynaptic factors that establish and modulate neurotransmitter release properties is crucial to understanding synapse strength, circuit function, and neural plasticity. We previously identified Drosophila Piccolo-RIM-related Fife, which regulates neurotransmission and motor behavior through an unknown mechanism. Here, we demonstrate that Fife localizes and interacts with RIM at the active zone cytomatrix to promote neurotransmitter release. Loss of Fife results in the severe disruption of active zone cytomatrix architecture and molecular organization. Through electron tomographic and electrophysiological studies, we find a decrease in the ac

SUBMITTER: Bruckner JJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5223599 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature