Synaptic Processes

We launch a Series on Synaptic Processes, featuring commissioned Reviews and opinion pieces that discuss the expanding molecular understanding of how neural cells communicate.

Bryan Roth reviews how insights into the structures of G protein–coupled receptors that are targets of neuropsychiatric drugs contribute to understanding of their functions as well as to the discovery of new chemical tools and drugs.

Monoamine transporters (MATs) regulate neurotransmission via the reuptake of dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine from the extra-neuronal space. This Review discusses recent advances in elucidating the structural dynamics and allosteric regulation of MATs.

Numerous proteins in dendrites and axons are synthesized locally. In this Review, the authors summarize current evidence for local mRNA translation in neurons and discuss the neuronal functions shown to be served by this process.

Researchers working on synaptic vesicle fusion and neurotransmitter release share their views on the most interesting developments in their field and the challenges that lie ahead.