First Src homology 3 domain of Rab3-interacting molecules (RIMs) binding proteins
RIMs binding proteins (RBPs, RIM-BPs) associate with calcium channels present in photoreceptors, neurons, and hair cells; they interact simultaneously with specific calcium channel subunits, and active zone proteins, RIM1 and RIM2. RIMs are part of the matrix at the presynaptic active zone and are associated with synaptic vesicles through their interaction with the small GTPase Rab3. RIM-BPs play a role in regulating synaptic transmission by serving as adaptors and linking calcium channels with the synaptic vesicle release machinery. RIM-BPs contain three SH3 domains and two to three fibronectin III repeats. Invertebrates contain one, while vertebrates contain at least two RIM-BPs, RIM-BP1 and RIM-BP2. RIM-BP1 is also called peripheral-type benzodiazapine receptor associated protein 1 (PRAX-1). Mammals contain a third protein, RIM-BP3. RIM-BP1 and RIM-BP2 are predominantly expressed in the brain where they display overlapping but distinct expression patterns, while RIM-BP3 is almost exclusively expressed in the testis and is essential in spermiogenesis. The SH3 domains of RIM-BPs bind to the PxxP motifs of RIM1, RIM2, and L-type (alpha1D) and N-type (alpha1B) calcium channel subunits. SH3 domains are protein interaction domains that bind to proline-rich ligands with moderate affinity and selectivity. They play versatile and diverse roles in the cell including the regulation of enzymes, changing the subcellular localization of signaling pathway components, and mediating the formation of multiprotein complex assemblies.