Neurexins cluster Ca²⁺ channels within the presynaptic active zone.

ABSTRACT: To achieve ultrafast neurotransmission, neurons assemble synapses with highly organized presynaptic and postsynaptic nanomachines that are aligned by synaptic adhesion molecules. How functional assembly of presynaptic active zones is controlled via trans-synaptic interactions remains unknown. Here, we conditionally deleted all three neurexin adhesion molecules from presynaptic neurons of the calyx of Held in the mouse auditory system, a model synapse that allows precise biophysical analyses of synaptic properties. The pan-neurexin deletion had no effect on synapse development or the basic release machinery, but dramatically impaired fast neurotransmitter release. The overall properties of presynaptic calcium ion channels appeared normal, as reflected by the similar characteristics of calci

SUBMITTER: Luo F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7110102 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature