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Synaptic Proteins and Receptors

Synaptic Proteins and Receptors Background

About Synaptic Proteins and Receptors

Synaptic proteins and receptors are crucial components of the intricate communication system within the nervous system. They play fundamental roles in transmitting signals between neurons at specialized junctions called synapses. These proteins and receptors work together to ensure the precise and efficient transmission of information, ultimately governing various aspects of brain function and behavior.

Synaptic proteins are a diverse group of molecules that are primarily localized at synapses. They include presynaptic proteins, which are found in the axon terminal of the presynaptic neuron, and postsynaptic proteins, which are located in the dendrites or cell body of the postsynaptic neuron. These proteins are involved in processes such as synaptic vesicle release, neurotransmitter synthesis and transport, postsynaptic receptor clustering, and synaptic plasticity.

  • One key group of synaptic proteins is the SNARE (soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor) proteins. SNARE proteins play a central role in mediating the fusion of synaptic vesicles with the presynaptic membrane, leading to the release of neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft. They include synaptobrevin/VAMP (vesicle-associated membrane protein), syntaxin, and SNAP-25 (synaptosomal-associated protein 25). These proteins assemble into a complex known as the SNARE complex, which drives membrane fusion and neurotransmitter release.

On the other hand, synaptic receptors are specialized proteins located on the postsynaptic membrane that bind neurotransmitters released from the presynaptic neuron. These receptors initiate a cascade of intracellular events upon neurotransmitter binding, leading to changes in the postsynaptic neuron's electrical properties and signaling pathways. There are various types of synaptic receptors, including ionotropic receptors and metabotropic receptors.

  • Ionotropic receptors are ligand-gated ion channels that, upon neurotransmitter binding, allow the flow of ions across the postsynaptic membrane, leading to rapid changes in membrane potential. Examples of ionotropic receptors include NMDA receptors, AMPA receptors, GABA receptors, and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.
  • Metabotropic receptors, on the other hand, are G protein-coupled receptors that, upon neurotransmitter binding, activate intracellular signaling pathways through the activation of G proteins. These receptors induce more prolonged and complex cellular responses compared to ionotropic receptors. Examples of metabotropic receptors include dopamine receptors, serotonin receptors, and adrenergic receptors.

Interactions between synaptic proteins and receptors are essential for efficient and precise signaling. When an action potential reaches the presynaptic terminal, calcium channels are activated, leading to the release of neurotransmitters into the synaptic gap. The neurotransmitter then binds to specific receptors on the postsynaptic membrane, triggering a cascade of events that ultimately transmits the signal to the receiving neuron. These interactions control processes such as neurotransmitter release, postsynaptic signaling, synaptic plasticity, and ultimately contribute to a variety of brain functions, including learning, memory, and behavior.

Understanding the roles and interactions of synaptic proteins and receptors is essential for deciphering the mechanisms underlying normal brain function and the pathophysiology of neurological and psychiatric disorders. Research in this field aims to unravel the complexities of synaptic communication, identify potential therapeutic targets, and develop interventions to modulate synaptic function for the treatment of various brain disorders.

Multiple Components and Molecules in Synaptic Proteins and Receptors

Calcium-binding Proteins and Related Molecules: Calcium-binding proteins, such as calmodulin and calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinases (CaMKs), play important roles in synaptic function. They bind to calcium ions and regulate various cellular processes, including neurotransmitter release, synaptic plasticity, and gene expression.

Contactins are a family of cell adhesion molecules that are involved in synapse formation and maintenance. They contribute to the establishment of proper synaptic connections and play roles in regulating synaptic plasticity and neuronal circuitry.

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) Receptors receptors are ionotropic receptors that mediate the inhibitory effects of GABA in the brain. They regulate neuronal excitability by allowing the flow of chloride ions into the postsynaptic neuron, leading to hyperpolarization and suppression of action potentials.

Glutamate Receptors are ionotropic and metabotropic receptors that mediate the excitatory effects of glutamate, the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain. Ionotropic glutamate receptors, such as NMDA receptors and AMPA receptors, allow the flow of cations into the postsynaptic neuron, leading to depolarization and the generation of action potentials.

Synaptic proteins and receptors - Creative BioMart

IGSF4/SynCAM Family: The IGSF4/SynCAM (Immunoglobulin superfamily member 4/Synaptic Cell Adhesion Molecule) family of proteins are cell adhesion molecules found at synapses. They are involved in synapse formation, synaptic organization, and synaptic plasticity.

Ion Channels and Regulators including potassium channels, calcium channels, and sodium channels, are critical for the generation and propagation of action potentials in neurons. They control the flow of ions across the neuronal membrane, regulating the electrical activity of neurons and synaptic transmission.

Neurexins and Neuroligins are transmembrane proteins that interact with each other to mediate synaptic adhesion and synaptic transmission. They contribute to synapse formation, synaptic maturation, and the precise alignment of pre- and postsynaptic components.

Neurotransmitter G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) are a diverse group of receptors that modulate synaptic transmission through activation of G proteins and downstream signaling pathways. They are involved in the regulation of neurotransmitter release and postsynaptic responses.

Neurotransmitter Transporters are membrane proteins responsible for the reuptake of neurotransmitters from the synaptic cleft back into the presynaptic neuron. They help terminate the action of neurotransmitters by removing them from the synaptic space, regulating the duration and intensity of synaptic signaling.

Synaptic Adhesion Molecules, such as neuroligins, neurexins, and contactins, are involved in cell-cell adhesion and play critical roles in synapse formation, stabilization, and plasticity. They contribute to the organization and maintenance of synaptic connections.

Synaptic Proteins encompass a wide range of molecules involved in various aspects of synaptic function, including neurotransmitter release, vesicle trafficking, synapse formation, and synaptic plasticity. These include SNARE proteins, scaffolding proteins, kinases, phosphatases, and many others.

Synaptic SNAREs, such as syntaxin, SNAP-25, and synaptobrevin/VAMP, are a subgroup of SNARE proteins that mediate the fusion of synaptic vesicles with the presynaptic membrane, leading to neurotransmitter release. They are key components of the SNARE complex and are essential for synaptic transmission.

These components and molecules collectively contribute to the complex machinery of synaptic transmission and play vital roles in the formation, function, and plasticity of synapses. Their interactions and regulation ensure the precise and efficient communication between neurons, ultimately shaping the function and plasticity of the nervous system.

The main synaptic proteins and receptors in synaptogenesis and function.Fig.2 The main synaptic proteins and receptors in synaptogenesis and function. (Chen J, et al., 2014)

Research Tools for Synaptic Proteins and Receptors

At Creative BioMart, we deeply understand the importance of studying synaptic proteins, receptors, and related molecules, and we provide high-quality research tools for this purpose. Our product line includes various recombinant proteins, cell tissues and lysates, protein pre-coupled beads, and other related products to meet the needs of researchers.

  • Our recombinant proteins are produced through efficient expression systems and possess high purity and biological activity. These proteins encompass synaptic proteins, receptors, and related molecules that can be used for in vitro studies of their functions, interactions, and regulatory mechanisms. We offer multiple specifications and labeling options to accommodate different experimental requirements.
  • Additionally, we provide various cell tissues and lysates, which can be utilized for techniques such as immunohistochemistry, immunoprecipitation, and co-immunoprecipitation. These products include antibodies, protein A/G agarose, and magnetic beads for the detection and purification of synaptic proteins and receptors.

In addition to product supply, we also offer customized services and extensive resource support. Our scientific team possesses rich experience and expertise, allowing us to customize specific proteins, antibodies, or experimental protocols based on your specific needs. We also provide technical information, literature references, and experimental protocols related to synaptic proteins and receptors to help you better understand and study the functions and regulatory mechanisms of these important molecules.

Whether you are conducting fundamental research in synaptic biology or embarking on drug discovery and development related to synaptic proteins and receptors, Creative BioMart is your reliable partner. We are committed to providing high-quality research tools and services to help you achieve successful scientific outcomes.

Please click on the relevant molecule/target to view comprehensive resources.

Calcium-binding Proteins and Related Molecules
Contactins
GABA Receptors
Glutamate Receptors
IGSF4/SynCAM Family
Ion Channels and Regulators
Neurexins and Neuroligins
Neurotransmitter G Protein-Coupled Receptors
Neurotransmitter Transporters
Synaptic Adhesion Molecules
Synaptic Proteins
Synaptic SNAREs

If you have any questions or are interested in these products or services, please feel free to contact us and our customer service team will be happy to serve you. We look forward to interacting with you!

Reference:

  1. Chen J, Yu S, Fu Y, Li X. Synaptic proteins and receptors defects in autism spectrum disorders. Front Cell Neurosci. 2014;8:276. Published 2014 Sep 11. doi:10.3389/fncel.2014.00276
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