Vesicular monoamine transporter 1

Protein involved in neurotransmitter transport

The vesicular monoamine transporter 1 (VMAT1) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SLC18A1 gene. VMAT1 is a type of transporter protein that is responsible for packaging monoamine neurotransmitters into synaptic vesicles in neurons. This process is crucial for the proper functioning of synaptic transmission in the nervous system.

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Scheme of secondary active transport

Function

VMAT1 is primarily involved in the transport of monoamines such as serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine from the cytosol of the neuron into synaptic vesicles. This transport is essential for the storage and subsequent release of these neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft during neurotransmission.

Mechanism

VMAT1 operates through a mechanism known as secondary active transport. This process utilizes the proton gradient across the vesicular membrane to drive the uptake of monoamines into the vesicles. The proton gradient is maintained by a proton pump that actively transports protons into the vesicle, creating an electrochemical gradient. VMAT1 uses this gradient to transport monoamines against their concentration gradient into the vesicle.

Clinical significance

Alterations in VMAT1 function have been implicated in various neurological disorders and psychiatric conditions. For example, changes in VMAT1 activity can affect the levels of neurotransmitters available for release, potentially contributing to conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.

Genetics

The SLC18A1 gene, located on chromosome 8, encodes the VMAT1 protein. Variations in this gene can lead to differences in VMAT1 function and expression, which may influence an individual's susceptibility to certain neurological and psychiatric disorders.

Related pages

• Vesicular monoamine transporter 2
• Monoamine neurotransmitter
• Synaptic vesicle
• Neurotransmitter transporters