# Synaptic transmission at retinal ribbon synapses

> **NIH NIH R01** · YALE UNIVERSITY · 2022 · $453,354

## Abstract

In sensory cells of the eye and inner ear the neurotransmitter glutamate is released at active zones in a graded
and continuous manner. These cells have evolved specialized structures known as synaptic ribbons. These
proteinaceous structures tether synaptic vesicles near active zones. Based on their location, abundance of
tethered vesicles, and properties of the sensory neurons in which they are found, these organelles have long
been thought to be important for maintaining the continuous release of glutamate. Several other functions have
also been ascribed to ribbons. However, recent evidence casts doubt on these ideas. The focus of this grant is
to understand the role of synaptic ribbons in sensory synaptic transmission using animal models that lack
Ribeye, a protein that is both the most abundant within the ribbon and not found anywhere else. Lack of Ribeye
leads to loss of membrane associated synaptic ribbons, without loss of other presynaptic proteins. Specific Aim 1
investigates how Ribeye removal and loss of synaptic ribbons affects neurotransmitter release from
photoreceptors. Specific Aim 2 looks at the properties of synaptic release in bipolar cells from the same animals.
In Specific Aim 3, we will image single synaptic vesicles in cells lacking Ribeye to measure rates of vesicle
movement and replenishment to test the role of the ribbon in these processes. Understanding ribbon function
may provide clues to help understand diseases that specifically affect vision and hearing. In addition, the
fundamental understanding of presynaptic processes in these specialized neurons will have broader implications
for neuronal communication in general and thus, may contribute to our understanding of various aspects of
mental health and neurological disorders.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10322145
- **Project number:** 5R01EY032396-02
- **Recipient organization:** YALE UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** WALLACE B THORESON
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2022
- **Award amount:** $453,354
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2021-01-01 → 2024-12-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10322145

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10322145, Synaptic transmission at retinal ribbon synapses (5R01EY032396-02). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-22 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10322145. Licensed CC0.

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