Target type: cellularcomponent
The intermediate filament cytoskeleton that is part of a presynapse. [GOC:dos]
The presynaptic intermediate filament cytoskeleton is a complex network of protein fibers that plays a critical role in maintaining the structural integrity and function of presynaptic terminals. It is composed primarily of type III intermediate filament proteins, specifically neurofilaments (NFs) in vertebrates and their invertebrate homologs. These proteins assemble into long, rope-like filaments that extend throughout the presynaptic terminal, providing structural support and anchoring for other cellular components.
The presynaptic intermediate filament cytoskeleton is closely associated with the presynaptic active zone, the specialized region where neurotransmitter release occurs. NFs interact with various proteins at the active zone, including synapsin I and spectrin, which are involved in the regulation of synaptic vesicle trafficking and clustering. This interaction ensures that neurotransmitter release occurs in a spatially controlled manner, ensuring efficient synaptic transmission.
Furthermore, the presynaptic intermediate filament cytoskeleton contributes to the formation and maintenance of the presynaptic terminal itself. It interacts with the plasma membrane, providing structural support and stability. This is essential for the formation of specialized domains within the presynaptic terminal, such as the active zone and the synaptic vesicle pool.
In addition to its structural role, the presynaptic intermediate filament cytoskeleton is also involved in the regulation of synaptic plasticity. Changes in the organization and dynamics of NFs have been linked to alterations in synaptic strength and long-term potentiation (LTP).
Overall, the presynaptic intermediate filament cytoskeleton is a crucial component of the presynaptic terminal, playing critical roles in maintaining structural integrity, regulating synaptic vesicle trafficking, and contributing to synaptic plasticity. Its intricate interactions with other cellular components ensure the efficient and reliable transmission of nerve impulses across synapses.'
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| Protein | Definition | Taxonomy |
|---|---|---|
| DNA repair protein RAD51 homolog 1 | A DNA repair protein RAD51 homolog 1 that is encoded in the genome of human. [PRO:DNx] | Homo sapiens (human) |
| Compound | Definition | Classes | Roles |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-hydroxyindole | hydroxyindoles | human metabolite | |
| methyl tryptophan, (l-trp)-isomer | |||
| 3-chloro-1-(2-chlorophenyl)-4-(4-morpholinyl)pyrrole-2,5-dione | maleimides | ||
| 3-chloro-1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-4-(4-morpholinyl)-1h-pyrrole-2,5-dione | 3-chloro-1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-4-(4-morpholinyl)-1H-pyrrole-2,5-dione: an inhibitor of RAD51 that disrupts homologous recombination in human cells; structure in first source |