MSGDDDIPEG LEAINLKMNA TTDDSLESTR RMLALCEESK EAGIKTLVML DDQGEQLERCEGALDTINQD MKEAEDHLKG MEKCCGLCVL PWNKTDDFEK TEFAKAWKKD DDGGVISDQPRITVGDSSMG PQGGYITKIT NDAREDEMDE NVQQVSTMVG NLRNMAIDMS TEVSNQNRQL DRIHDKAQSN EVRVESANKR AKNLITK.
Synaptosomal-associated protein 25kDa (SNAP-25) is a crucial component of the SNARE (Soluble NSF Attachment Protein Receptor) complex, which plays a vital role in the exocytotic release of neurotransmitters during synaptic transmission. This protein is highly conserved across species, including the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). The recombinant form of SNAP-25 from C. elegans has been extensively studied to understand its structure, function, and potential applications in neuroscience research.
SNAP-25 is a presynaptic protein that is essential for the proper functioning of synaptic vesicle exocytosis. It forms a coiled-coil assembly with syntaxin-1 and synaptobrevin, facilitating the apposition of synaptic vesicles to the presynaptic membrane and permitting their calcium-triggered fusion . This process is critical for the release of neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft, enabling neuronal communication.
The protein exists in two isoforms, SNAP-25a and SNAP-25b, which are differentially expressed during development. SNAP-25a is predominantly expressed during the embryonic stage, while SNAP-25b becomes the major isoform during postnatal life .
Recombinant SNAP-25 from C. elegans is produced in Escherichia coli (E. coli) as a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain containing 207 amino acids and having a molecular mass of approximately 23kDa . The gene encoding SNAP-25 is amplified by PCR from C. elegans and cloned into an E. coli expression vector. The protein is then purified using conventional chromatography techniques .
The recombinant form of SNAP-25 from C. elegans is widely used in laboratory procedures to study the protein’s role in synaptic transmission and its interactions with other cellular components. It is particularly valuable in research focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying synaptic vesicle exocytosis and the regulation of neurotransmitter release.
Alterations in SNAP-25 have been associated with various neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder . Understanding the function and regulation of SNAP-25 can provide insights into the pathophysiology of these conditions and potentially lead to the development of targeted therapies.