Mechanism of Vesicle Docking

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the mechanism of vesicle docking as discussed in the lecture on molecular biology.

SNARE protein

A soluble NSF attachment receptor protein that facilitates the docking and fusion of vesicles with target membranes.

t SNARE

A type of SNARE protein located on target membranes that interacts with v SNARE during vesicle docking.

v SNARE

A type of SNARE protein located on vesicles that interacts with t SNARE during the docking process.

RAB GTPase

A protein that recognizes target membranes and guides vesicles for docking.

RAB effector protein

A tethering protein that helps in attaching the vesicle to the target membrane during the docking process.

GTP hydrolysis

The process by which GTP is converted to GDP, facilitating the locking of the vesicle onto the target membrane.

cis-trans complex

The configuration formed by the interaction of SNARE proteins during the docking of the vesicle to the target membrane.

NSF protein

N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive fusion protein that aids in the dissociation of SNARE complexes after vesicle fusion.

ATPase

An enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of ATP to provide energy for various biological processes, including the dissociation of SNARE proteins.

tethering process

The initial interaction between vesicles and the target membrane facilitated by RAB GTPase and RAB effector proteins.