Neurotransmitters are released from a specific site in the axon terminal called the active zone, which is composed of synaptic vesicles and a meshwork of cytoskeleton underlying the plasma membrane. The protein encoded by this gene is thought to be a scaffolding protein involved in organizing the presynaptic cytoskeleton. The gene is expressed primarily in neurons in the brain. A similar gene product in rodents is concentrated in the active zone of axon terminals and tightly associated with cytoskeletal structures, and is essential for regulating neurotransmitter release from a subset of synapses. [provided by RefSeq]. Publication Note: This RefSeq record includes a subset of the publications that are available for this gene. Please see the Gene record to access additional publications.
Is thought to be involved in the organization of the cytomatrix at the nerve terminals active zone (CAZ) which regulates neurotransmitter release. Seems to act through binding to ERC2/CAST1. Essential in regulated neurotransmitter release from a subset of brain glutamatergic synapses. Involved in the formation of the retinal photoreceptor ribbon synapses (By similarity).