Modular architecture of Munc13/calmodulin complexes: dual regulation by Ca2+ and possible function in short-term synaptic plasticity

Ca2+ signalling in neurons through calmodulin (CaM) has a prominent function in regulating synaptic vesicle trafficking, transport, and fusion. Importantly, Ca2+-CaM binds a conserved region in the priming proteins Munc13-1 and ubMunc13-2 and thus regulates synaptic neurotransmitter release in neurons in response to residual Ca2+ signals. We solved the structure of Ca-4(2+)-CaM in complex with the CaM-binding domain of Munc13-1, which features a novel 1-5-8-26 CaM-binding motif with two separated mobile structural modules, each involving a CaM domain. Photoaffinity labelling data reveal the same modular architecture in the complex with the ubMunc13-2 isoform. The N-module can be dissociated with EGTA to form the half-loaded Munc13/Ca-2(2+)-CaM complex. The Ca2+ regulation of these Munc13 isoforms can therefore be explained by the modular nature of the Munc13/Ca2+ CaM interactions, where the C-module provides a high-affinity interaction activated at nanomolar [Ca2+](i), whereas the N-module acts as a sensor at micromolar [Ca2+](i). This Ca2+/CaM-binding mode of Munc13 likely constitutes a key molecular correlate of the characteristic Ca2+-dependent modulation of short-term synaptic plasticity. The EMBO Journal (2010) 29, 680-691. doi:10.1038/emboj.2009.373; Published online 10 December 2009