translation at presynapse

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Translation that occurs at the presynapse. [PMID:27321671]

Translation at the presynapse is a crucial process that plays a vital role in synaptic plasticity and neuronal function. It involves the synthesis of new proteins from messenger RNA (mRNA) transcripts, which are transported to the presynaptic terminal. Here is a detailed description of the process:

**1. mRNA Transport:**

* mRNA molecules encoding synaptic proteins are transcribed in the neuronal cell body and transported to the presynaptic terminal via motor proteins along microtubule tracks.

**2. Ribosome Recruitment:**

* Upon arrival at the presynaptic terminal, mRNA transcripts are bound by ribosomes, which are the protein synthesis machinery.

**3. Initiation of Translation:**

* The ribosome binds to the mRNA at the start codon, initiating the translation process.

**4. Elongation:**

* The ribosome moves along the mRNA, reading codons and adding corresponding amino acids to a growing polypeptide chain.

**5. Termination:**

* When the ribosome reaches a stop codon, translation is terminated, and the newly synthesized protein is released.

**6. Protein Folding and Modification:**

* The newly synthesized protein undergoes folding and modification to achieve its correct three-dimensional structure and function.

**7. Targeting and Localization:**

* Many synaptic proteins are targeted to specific locations within the presynaptic terminal, such as the active zone, where neurotransmitter release occurs.

**8. Regulation of Translation:**

* Translation at the presynapse is tightly regulated by various factors, including neuronal activity, signaling pathways, and cellular stress.

**9. Synaptic Plasticity:**

* Translation at the presynapse is essential for synaptic plasticity, the ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken in response to neuronal activity. It enables the synthesis of new proteins that contribute to long-term potentiation (LTP) or long-term depression (LTD), processes that underlie learning and memory.

**10. Neuronal Function:**

* The proteins synthesized at the presynapse play diverse roles in neuronal function, including:
* Neurotransmitter synthesis and release
* Synaptic vesicle trafficking
* Receptor signaling
* Synaptic scaffolding and structural integrity

**In summary, translation at the presynapse is a complex and tightly regulated process that enables the synthesis of proteins crucial for synaptic plasticity and neuronal function. It involves mRNA transport, ribosome recruitment, initiation and elongation of translation, protein folding and modification, targeting and localization, and regulation by various factors.**'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (2)