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Updated: Jun 28, 2026

Examination of Synaptic Vesicle Recycling Using FM Dyes During Evoked, Spontaneous, and Miniature Synaptic Activities
Published on: March 31, 2014
Dynamin and activity regulate synaptic vesicle recycling in sympathetic neurons
Wenbo Lu1, Huan Ma, Zu-Hang Sheng
1Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China.
This study reveals two distinct modes of synaptic vesicle recycling in neurons, mediated by dynamin. Dynasore and a dynamin peptide differentially affect synaptic transmission, highlighting activity-dependent and independent pathways for vesicle replenishment.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Synaptic Physiology
Background:
- Synaptic vesicle recycling is crucial for neurotransmission.
- Endocytosis replenishes the vesicle pool for sustained synaptic function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the kinetics and molecular mechanisms of synaptic vesicle recycling modes.
- To differentiate activity-dependent and independent recycling pathways at sympathetic nerve terminals.
Main Methods:
- Used superior cervical ganglion neurons in culture.
- Disrupted endocytosis using Dynasore (dynamin inhibitor) and a dynamin peptide (P4).
- Assessed synaptic transmission via excitatory postsynaptic potential responses to paired and trains of action potentials.
Main Results:
- Dynasore reduced the second response to paired pulses; P4 did not.
- Dynasore accelerated transmission reduction during high-frequency stimulation; P4 enhanced it.
- P4 delayed vesicle pool recovery post-depletion; Dynasore limited recovery to 10%.
Conclusions:
- Identified two essential modes of dynamin-mediated synaptic vesicle recycling: activity-dependent and independent.
- Demonstrated physiological and molecular heterogeneity in endocytosis at sympathetic nerve terminals.
- Provided insights into synaptic plasticity and vesicle pool replenishment.
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