SYNAPASE STRUCTURE AND DEVELOPMENT

中枢神经系统依赖于一个巨大的神经网络 细胞维持生理和行为的稳态。 通信 神经元网络的细胞之间的相互作用是由 调节化学信使的分泌。 通过在 我们希望通过这一提议，更好地了解 调节神经递质和神经调质的分泌 terminals. 我们的重点是蛋白质组成的关键 参与突触传递的细胞器，即突触囊泡。 我们 建议进一步表征特异性定位于 突触囊泡 通过了解这些因素的相互作用， 突触囊泡蛋白与神经末梢的其他成分，我们 将深入了解特定分子的功能。 的 编码突触囊泡蛋白的重组DNA克隆的可用性 使得将分子的修饰形式引入细胞成为可能 并研究由此产生的表型。 了解 突触传递的机制，将通过实验揭示 在这里提出的，是至关重要的定义潜在的缺陷， 导致行为障碍 这项研究将有助于预防 精神疾病和发展的治疗方法， 个体

The central nervous system relies on a vast network of interconnected nerve cells to maintain physiological and behavioral homeostasis. Communication between the cells that comprise neuronal networks is mediated by the regulated secretion of chemical messengers. Through the work outlined in this proposal, we hope to better understand the molecular mechanisms which regulate the secretion of neurotransmitters and neuromodulators from nerve terminals. Our focus is on the proteins which comprise the critical organelle involved in synaptic transmission, the synaptic vesicle. We propose to further characterize molecules specifically localized to synaptic vesicles. Through an understanding of the interactions of these synaptic vesicle proteins with other components of the nerve terminal, we will gain insight into the functions of specific molecules. The availability of recombinant DNA clones encoding synaptic vesicle proteins makes it possible to introduce modified forms of the molecules into cells in culture and to study the resultant phenotypes. Understanding the mechanisms of synaptic transmission, as will be revealed by the experiments proposed here, is critical in defining the underlying defects that give rise to behavioral disorders. This research will aid in the prevention of psychiatric illness and the development of therapies for afflicted individuals.