Millisecond Ca(2+) dynamics activate multiple protein cascades for synaptic vesicle control

For reliable transmission at chemical synapses, neurotransmitters must be released dynamically in response to neuronal activity in the form of action potentials. Stable synaptic transmission is dependent on the efficacy of transmitter release and the rate of resupplying synaptic vesicles to their release sites. Accurate regulation is conferred by proteins sensing Ca(2+) entering through voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels opened by an action potential. Presynaptic Ca(2+) concentration changes are dynamic functions in space and time, with wide fluctuations associated with different rates of neuronal activity. Thus, regulation of transmitter release includes reactions involving multiple Ca(2+)-dependent proteins, each operating over a specific time window. Classically, studies of presynaptic proteins function favored large invertebrate presynaptic terminals. I have established a useful mammalian synapse model based on sympathetic neurons in culture. This review summarizes the use of this model synapse to study the roles of presynaptic proteins in neuronal activity for the control of transmitter release efficacy and synaptic vesicle recycling.