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SNAP-25, but not SNAP-23, is essential for photoreceptor development, survival, and function in mice
Mengjia Huang1,2, Chun Hin Chow1,2, Akshay Gurdita3,4
1Division of Experimental & Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, M5T 0S8, Canada.
Communications Biology
|January 5, 2024
Summary
Synaptosomal-associated protein (SNAP)-25 is crucial for photoreceptor survival and function, mediating photopigment delivery and synaptic integrity. SNAP-23 plays no significant role in these processes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- SNARE-mediated transport is vital for photoreceptor function, including glutamate exocytosis and photopigment delivery.
- The specific roles of Synaptosomal-associated protein (SNAP) isoforms in photoreceptors remain largely uncharacterized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distinct functions of SNAP-23 and SNAP-25 in photoreceptor development, survival, and visual function.
- To determine the necessity of SNAP-25 for photopigment delivery and synaptic structure in the retina.
Main Methods:
- Generation of photoreceptor-specific knockout mice for SNAP-23 and SNAP-25.
- Analysis of retinal morphology, visual function (electroretinograms), and synaptic structures via microscopy.
- Assessment of mRNA expression and trafficking patterns.
Main Results:
- SNAP-23 knockout did not impact retinal morphology or vision, despite weak mRNA expression.
- SNAP-25 mRNA exhibits developmental regulation and trafficking to photoreceptor inner segments.
- SNAP-25 knockout led to photoreceptor degeneration by P14, resulting in vision loss, abolished electroretinograms, mistrafficked photopigments, and abnormal synaptic structures.
Conclusions:
- SNAP-25, not SNAP-23, is essential for photoreceptor development, survival, and function.
- SNAP-25 mediates critical processes including photopigment delivery and synaptic integrity, vital for vision.
