This entry includes vesicle-associated membrane proteins VAMP1/synaptobrevin-1, VAMP2/synaptobrevin-2, VAMP3/synaptobrevin-3 and VAMP8/endobrevin.VAMPs are a group of small, integral membrane proteins of synaptic vesicles that is mostly involved in vesicle fusion. The heterotrimeric SNARE complex isformed by syntaxin 1, synaptosomal-associated protein 25kDa (SNAP25), and vesicle-associated membrane protein (VAMP)/synaptobrevin []. VAMP1 plays an essential, non-redundant role in Ca2+-triggered vesicle exocytosis at the mouse neuromuscular junction []. VAMP2 is extensively expressed in the central nervous system []. Neurotransmitter release involves the assembly of a heterotrimeric SNARE complex composed of SNAP25, VAMP2 and syntaxin 1 []. VAMP8 may be involved in regulated exocytosis of the exocrine system [, ].
