Distinct domains of complexins bind SNARE complexes and clamp fusion in vitro

In regulated exocytosis, the core membrane fusion machinery proteins, the SNARE proteins, are assisted by a group of regulatory factors in order to couple membrane fusion to an increase of intracellular calcium ion (Ca(2+)) concentration. Complexin-I and synaptotagmin-I have been shown to be key elements for this tightly regulated process. Many studies suggest that complexin-I can arrest the fusion reaction and that synaptotagmin-I can release the complexin-I blockage in a calcium-dependent manner. Although the actual molecular mechanism by which they exert their function is still unknown, recent in vivo experiments postulate that domains of complexin-I produce different effects on neurotransmitter release. Herein, by using an in vitro flipped SNARE cell fusion assay, we have identified and characterized the minimal functional domains of complexin-I necessary to couple calcium and synaptotagmin-I to membrane fusion. Moreover, we provide evidence that other isoforms of complexin, complexin-II, -III, and -IV, can also be functionally coupled to synaptotagmin-I and calcium. These correspond closely to results from in vivo experiments, providing further validation of the physiological relevance of the flipped SNARE system.