CaV2.1 α1 Subunit Expression Regulates Presynaptic CaV2.1 Abundance and Synaptic Strength at a Central Synapse

What is it about?

In the specialized structures for communication between nerve cells, called synapses, there are ion channels called CaV2 channels that control how information is passed between nerve cells. These channels are important for controlling the amount and dynamics of the release of neurotransmitters and thereby regulating the information transfer between nerve cells. However, how the number and location of these channels are regulated, has not been fully understood. Some studies indicate that these channels are like cars in a parking garage, and once all spots are occupied no more can be added. It has also been suggested, that one type of CaV2 channel, CaV2.1, cannot use the parking spots meant for other CaV2 channel types, such as CaV2.2. But when we studied these channels in a part of the brain called the calyx of Held, we found something different. In our study, the nerve cells prefer CaV2.1 over CaV2.2 and when we programmed the cells to produce more CaV2.1 channels, these cells released more neurotransmitters in both young and mature brains. So, it seems that there's still room for more CaV2.1 channels in the synapse, and by adding more, we can influence the brain's messaging system. This discovery could help us understand how the brain controls its activities and serve as a potential starting point for therapies against neurodevelopmental diseases.

Featured Image