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Synchronous and asynchronous modes of synaptic transmission utilize different calcium sources
Hua Wen1, Jeffrey M Hubbard, Benjamin Rakela
1Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, United States.
Elife
|December 26, 2013
Summary
Asynchronous neurotransmitter release is driven by a novel intracellular calcium source separate from synchronous release. This finding reveals new mechanisms for synaptic transmission in the nervous system.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Synaptic Transmission
Background:
- Asynchronous neurotransmitter release is crucial at many synapses but its mechanisms remain unclear.
- Current models suggest asynchronous release relies on the same calcium domains as synchronous release.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distinct calcium sources underlying synchronous and asynchronous neurotransmitter release.
- To elucidate the mechanisms driving asynchronous release at the neuromuscular synapse.
Main Methods:
- Live imaging of calcium dynamics.
- Paired patch clamp recordings in zebrafish neuromuscular synapses.
Main Results:
- Synchronous release depends on P/Q type calcium channels in synaptic boutons.
- Asynchronous release is augmented by a distinct, propagating intracellular calcium source originating from off-synaptic axonal locations.
- This secondary calcium source explains the sustained asynchronous release and its sensitivity to calcium buffers.
Conclusions:
- Asynchronous neurotransmitter release involves spatially distinct calcium sources from synchronous release.
- A novel, propagating intracellular calcium source contributes significantly to asynchronous release.
- This mechanism may be prevalent in other synapses exhibiting prominent asynchronous release, including those in the central nervous system (CNS).
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