Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 21, 2026
09:19
Analysis of SNARE-mediated Membrane Fusion Using an Enzymatic Cell Fusion Assay
Published on: October 19, 2012
14.4K
Dynamic Relationship of the SNARE Complex with a Membrane.
Ronald W Holz1, Joshua Zimmerberg2
1Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Biophysical Journal
|August 6, 2019
Summary
Membrane fusion relies on SNARE proteins. New research reveals how lipid unsaturation affects the orientation of membrane-bound SNARE complexes, crucial for synaptic vesicle fusion.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Biophysics
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Soluble NSF Attachment Protein REceptor (SNARE) proteins mediate membrane fusion, essential for cellular processes like neurotransmission.
- Previous studies focused on cytosolic domains, elucidating the SNARE complex structure but not membrane-bound interactions.
- Understanding the 'trans' configuration of SNAREs is critical for initiating membrane fusion events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the spontaneous orientation of membrane-bound, full-length syntaxin1A's SNARE motif relative to its transmembrane domain.
- To explore the influence of lipid properties, specifically unsaturation, on SNARE complex orientation in a membrane environment.
- To model and understand the 'trans' interactions crucial for synaptic vesicle fusion.
Main Methods:
- Utilized fluorescence interference-contrast microscopy to precisely measure SNARE motif orientation.
- Employed a silicon chip substrate with controlled oxide layers to create interference patterns.
- Investigated membrane-bound, full-length syntaxin1A under conditions mimicking 'trans' configurations.
Main Results:
- Determined the precise orientation of the SNARE motif of membrane-bound syntaxin1A.
- Revealed an unexpected and significant influence of lipid unsaturation on SNARE complex orientation.
- Provided nanometer-precision data on SNARE protein behavior in a membrane context.
Conclusions:
- Lipid composition directly impacts the structural arrangement of SNARE complexes at the membrane.
- Findings offer new insights into the critical 'trans' interactions that drive membrane fusion.
- This work advances our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying synaptic vesicle exocytosis.
Related Concept Videos
01:43SNAREs and Membrane Fusion
12.4K
Once a transport vesicle has recognized its target organelle, the vesicular membrane needs to fuse with the target membrane to unload the cargo. Transmembrane proteins called SNAREs present on organelle membranes and their vesicles, mediate vesicle fusion.
SNAREs exist in pairs that symmetrically interact and catalyze the fusion of the lipid bilayers in vesicle and target organelle. v-SNARE in the vesicle membrane are single polypeptide chains that bind to a complementary t-SNARE, composed of 2...
SNAREs exist in pairs that symmetrically interact and catalyze the fusion of the lipid bilayers in vesicle and target organelle. v-SNARE in the vesicle membrane are single polypeptide chains that bind to a complementary t-SNARE, composed of 2...
12.4K
02:12Relationship Formation
45.2K
What do you think is the single most influential factor in determining with whom you become friends and whom you form romantic relationships? You might be surprised to learn that the answer is simple: the people with whom you have the most contact. This most important factor is proximity. You are more likely to be friends with people you have regular contact with. For example, there are decades of research that shows that you are more likely to become friends with people who live in your dorm,...
45.2K
01:28Ending Relationships
174
The dissolution of intimate relationships presents complex emotional and psychological challenges, particularly when emotional bonds are strong, the relationship is long-standing, and perceived alternatives are limited. This distress often intensifies in romantic breakups, where the initiator may experience greater turmoil than the rejected partner. Contributing factors include residual attachment, guilt over causing pain, and uncertainty about how to manage the situation. The stress is further...
174
01:27Relationship Growth
209
Interpersonal relationships progress through stages, beginning with awareness and moving toward mutuality, where emotional connections deepen. While many relationships remain at moderate levels of mutuality, deeper connections form through self-disclosure, trust, and interdependence.Self-DisclosureSelf-disclosure involves revealing personal information, starting with surface-level details and gradually progressing to more intimate content. As trust grows, individuals feel more comfortable...
209
01:30Social Relationships and Well-Being
268
The significance of social relationships in psychological well-being is a well-established area of inquiry within social psychology. Research consistently demonstrates that the presence of meaningful, supportive relationships enhances emotional health, while the absence or deterioration of such connections can contribute to psychological distress. Relationships serve as a foundation for emotional support, identity, and social belonging, all of which are critical to an individual’s overall...
268
01:29Close Relationships and Culture
223
Culture shapes how people approach attraction, choose partners, and build long-term relationships. While some preferences in mate selection appear consistent across cultures, such as men valuing physical attractiveness and women emphasizing financial resources, cultural contexts influence how these preferences are expressed and prioritized. Marriage extends beyond romantic ideals in many societies and is deeply embedded in social, economic, and religious frameworks.The Role of Culture in Mate...
223