Membrane curvature in synaptic vesicle fusion and beyond

Cell. 2010 Mar 5;140(5):601-5. doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2010.02.017.

Abstract

Recent evidence suggests that the Ca(2+)-sensors synaptotagmin-1 and Doc2b deform synaptic membranes during synaptic vesicle exocytosis. We discuss how local curvature generated by these and other proteins may stimulate membrane fusion and discuss the potential implications of these findings for other cellular fusion events.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Membrane / chemistry
  • Cell Membrane / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Intracellular Membranes / chemistry
  • Intracellular Membranes / metabolism*
  • Membrane Proteins / metabolism
  • Plant Cells
  • SNARE Proteins / metabolism
  • Synapses / metabolism
  • Synaptic Vesicles / chemistry
  • Synaptic Vesicles / metabolism*

Substances

  • Membrane Proteins
  • SNARE Proteins