SNARE proteins as signaling elements

Abstract

SNAREs ( N -ethylmaleimide- sensitive factor adaptor protein receptors) are small polypeptides (∼200-400 amino acid) which are characterized by a particular domain, the SNARE motif that can form a coiled-coil structure via hetero-oligomeric interactions. These protein interactions are highly stable leading to the formation of the so-called SNARE complex which allows the membrane fusion. SNAREs also interact with several proteins acting as regulators of SNARE complex formation. By regulating vesicle traffi c, SNAREs have a clear infl uence on several signaling pathways. SNAREs take part to receptors turnover through endocytosis and exocytosis, but they can also directly gate channels and interact with membrane proteins potentially involved in signaling processes. Phosphorylation of SNAREs upon elicitation is known, and hormonal control confi rms that SNAREs have a role in signaling processes.