Modular architecture of Munc13/calmodulin complexes: dual regulation by Ca2+ and possible function in short‐term synaptic plasticity

Ca2+ signalling in neurons through calmodulin (CaM) has a prominent function in regulating synaptic vesicle trafficking, transport, and fusion. Importantly, Ca2+–CaM binds a conserved region in the priming proteins Munc13‐1 and ubMunc13‐2 and thus regulates synaptic neurotransmitter release in neurons in response to residual Ca2+ signals. We solved the structure of Ca2+4–CaM in complex with the CaM‐binding domain of Munc13‐1, which features a novel 1‐5‐8‐26 CaM‐binding motif with two separated mobile structural modules, each involving a CaM domain. Photoaffinity labelling data reveal the same modular architecture in the complex with the ubMunc13‐2 isoform. The N‐module can be dissociated with EGTA to form the half‐loaded Munc13/Ca2+2–CaM complex. The Ca2+ regulation of these Munc13 isoforms can therefore be explained by the modular nature of the Munc13/Ca2+–CaM interactions, where the C‐module provides a high‐affinity interaction activated at nanomolar [Ca2+]i, whereas the N‐module acts as a sensor at micromolar [Ca2+]i. This Ca2+/CaM‐binding mode of Munc13 likely constitutes a key molecular correlate of the characteristic Ca2+‐dependent modulation of short‐term synaptic plasticity.