Structure and function of ribbon synapses.

Peter Sterling; Gary Matthews

doi:10.1016/j.tins.2004.11.009

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PubMed · 15626493

Structure and function of ribbon synapses.

Peter Sterling·Gary Matthews

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Abstract

Sensory neurons with short conduction distances can use nonregenerative, graded potentials to modulate transmitter release continuously. This mechanism can transmit information at much higher rates than spiking. Graded signaling requires a synapse to sustain high rates of exocytosis for relatively long periods, and this capacity is the special virtue of ribbon synapses. Vesicles tethered to the ribbon provide a pool for sustained release that is typically fivefold greater than the docked pool available for fast release. The current article, which is part of the TINS Synaptic Connectivity series, reviews recent evidence for this fundamental computational strategy and its underlying cell biology.

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Action Potentials Animals Exocytosis Hair Cells, Auditory Humans Interneurons Neurons, Afferent Photoreceptor Cells Presynaptic Terminals Synapses Synaptic Transmission Synaptic Vesicles Journal Article Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Review

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Peter Sterling, Gary Matthews. 2005. Structure and function of ribbon synapses.. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tins.2004.11.009

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