A dual role of SNAP-25 as carrier and guardian of synaptic transmission

摘要

Control of exocytotic neurotransmitterrelease is essential for communication in the nervous system and for preventing synaptic abnormalities. The function of synaptosomal-associated protein of 25 kDa (SNAP-25) as a crucial component of the core machinery required for synaptic vesicle fusion is well established, but evidence is growing to suggest an additional modulatory role in neurotransmission. In this issue of EMBO reports, Antonucci et?al show that the efficacy of evoked glutamate release is modulated by the expression levels of SNAP?25-a function that might relate to the ability of SNAP?25?to modulate voltage-gated calcium channels and presynaptic calcium ion concentration [1]. Altered synaptic transmission and short-term plasticity due to changes in SNAP?25 expression might have direct consequences for brain function and for the development of neuropsychiatric disorders.