Mouse Alpha-Synuclein, SNCA ELI

Neuronal protein that plays several roles in synaptic activity such as regulation of synaptic vesicle trafficking and subsequent neurotransmitter release.

Participates as a monomer in synaptic vesicle exocytosis by enhancing vesicle priming, fusion and dilation of exocytotic fusion pores.

Mechanistically, acts by increasing local Ca2+ release from microdomains which is essential for the enhancement of ATP-induced exocytosis.

Acts also as a molecular chaperone in its multimeric membrane-bound state, assisting in the folding of synaptic fusion components called SNAREs (Soluble NSF Attachment Protein REceptors) at presynaptic plasma membrane in conjunction with cysteine string protein-alpha/DNAJC5 (PubMed:20798282, PubMed:25246573). This chaperone activity is important to sustain normal SNARE-complex assembly during aging.

Plays also a role in the regulation of the dopamine neurotransmission by associating with the dopamine transporter (DAT1) and thereby modulating its activity (By similarity).