Synaptotagmin 7 is enriched at the plasma membrane through γ-secretase processing to promote vesicle docking and control synaptic plasticity in mouse hippocampal neurons

Abstract

Abstract Synaptotagmin (SYT) 7 has emerged as key regulator of presynaptic function, but its localization and precise function in the synaptic vesicle cycle remain unclear. Here, we used iGluSnFR to optically and directly interrogate glutamate release, at the single bouton level, in SYT7 KO dissociated mouse hippocampal neurons. We analyzed asynchronous release, paired pulse facilitation, and synaptic vesicle replenishment, and found that SYT7 contributes to each of these processes to different degrees. ‘Zap-and-freeze’ electron microscopy revealed that loss of SYT7 impairs the docking of synaptic vesicles after a stimulus and the recovery of depleted synaptic vesicles after a stimulus train. To execute these functions, SYT7 must be targeted to the plasma membrane via γ-secretase-mediated cleavage of the amino terminus, followed by palmitoylation. The complex sorting itinerary of SYT7 endows this Ca2+-sensor with the ability to control crucial forms of synaptic function and plasticity. SYT7 mediated asynchronous release, paired pulse facilitation, and synaptic vesicle replenishment was observed optically at individual hippocampal synapses Localization, trafficking, and stability of SYT7 is dependent on processing by γ-secretase Short term plasticity defects arise in SYT7KOs due to decreased docking of synaptic vesicles after stimulation SYT7 promotes paired-pulse facilitation and asynchronous release via distinct mechanisms