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Splice Form Dependence of b-Neurexin/Neuroligin Binding Interactions

Journal Article · · Neuron
Alternatively spliced {beta}-neurexins ({beta}-NRXs) and neuroligins (NLs) are thought to have distinct extracellular binding affinities, potentially providing a {beta}-NRX/NL synaptic recognition code. We utilized surface plasmon resonance to measure binding affinities between all combinations of alternatively spliced {beta}-NRX 1-3 and NL 1-3 ectodomains. Binding was observed for all {beta}-NRX/NL pairs. The presence of the NL1 B splice insertion lowers {beta}-NRX binding affinity by 2-fold, while {beta}-NRX splice insertion 4 has small effects that do not synergize with NL splicing. New structures of glycosylated {beta}-NRXs 1 and 2 containing splice insertion 4 reveal that the insertion forms a new {beta} strand that replaces the {beta}10 strand, leaving the NL binding site intact. This helps to explain the limited effect of splice insert 4 on NRX/NL binding affinities. These results provide new structural insights and quantitative binding information to help determine whether and how splice isoform choice plays a role in {beta}-NRX/NL-mediated synaptic recognition.
Research Organization:
Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) National Synchrotron Light Source
Sponsoring Organization:
DOE - OFFICE OF SCIENCE
DOE Contract Number:
AC02-98CH10886
OSTI ID:
1019971
Report Number(s):
BNL--95817-2011-JA
Journal Information:
Neuron, Journal Name: Neuron Journal Issue: 1 Vol. 67; ISSN 0896-6273; ISSN NERNET
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English