Alpha-synuclein phospho S129
Function
Neuronal protein that plays several roles in synaptic activity such as regulation of synaptic vesicle trafficking and subsequent neurotransmitter release (By similarity). Participates as a monomer in synaptic vesicle exocytosis by enhancing vesicle priming, fusion and dilation of exocytotic fusion pores (By similarity). Mechanistically, acts by increasing local Ca(2+) release from microdomains which is essential for the enhancement of ATP-induced exocytosis (By similarity). 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 (By similarity). This chaperone activity is important to sustain normal SNARE-complex assembly during aging (By similarity). Also plays a role in the regulation of the dopamine neurotransmission by associating with the dopamine transporter (DAT1) and thereby modulating its activity (By similarity).
Post-translational modifications
Phosphorylated, predominantly on serine residues. Phosphorylated on Tyr-125 upon osmotic stress.
Ubiquitinated. The predominant conjugate is the diubiquitinated form.
Acetylation at Met-1 seems to be important for proper folding and native oligomeric structure.
Sequence Similarities
Belongs to the synuclein family.
Tissue Specificity
Found only in brain (hippocampus, brainstem and cortex). Specifically expressed in neuronal cell bodies and synapses.
Cellular localization
- Cytoplasm
- Membrane
- Nucleus
- Synapse
- Secreted
- Cell projection
- Axon
- Membrane-bound in dopaminergic neurons (By similarity). Expressed and colocalized with SEPTIN4 in dopaminergic axon terminals, especially at the varicosities (By similarity).
Alternative names
Alpha-synuclein, Snca