The VAMP1 gene encodes synaptobrevin-1, an integral membrane protein involved in vesicle fusion and neuronal exocytosis. The protein is tethered to the synaptic vesicle membrane and forms a SNARE complex with syntaxin and SNAP25 on the plasma membrane, thereby helping in the docking and/or fusion of synaptic vesicles with the presynaptic membrane.
The gene has been implicated in Spastic Ataxia 1, Autosomal Dominant (SPAX1), a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by spastic paraplegia, dysarthria and impaired ocular movements.