UNC13C

UNC13C is a human gene encoding a member of the Munc13 family of presynaptic active zone proteins, also referred to as Munc13-3. Members of this family regulate neurotransmitter release by priming synaptic vesicles for Ca2+-triggered exocytosis.

The encoded protein is expected to contain the central MUN domain, which promotes SNARE complex opening, and C2 domains that mediate Ca2+-dependent membrane interactions. The N-terminal region may participate in interactions within the active zone and with other scaffolding proteins.

Functionally, UNC13C is thought to contribute to the formation and maintenance of the readily releasable pool of synaptic vesicles, enabling rapid, synchronous neurotransmitter release in response to Ca2+ influx. Its activity is believed to be coordinated with other presynaptic components such as RIM proteins and SNAREs.

Expression data indicate presence in brain tissue, with regional expression patterns varying by study. Compared with better-characterized family members UNC13A and UNC13B, UNC13C is less well studied, and detailed information on its expression level, isoforms, and precise functional role remains limited.

In research contexts, UNC13C is considered part of the conserved mechanism of synaptic vesicle priming, and disruptions to UNC13 family function can affect neurotransmission. Current knowledge relies largely on analogies to UNC13A/B; direct functional studies of UNC13C in mammals are comparatively sparse.

See also: Munc13, SNARE complex, presynaptic active zone.