 Cholesterol is essential for proper neuron function as it is needed for the fusion of vesicles with the cell membrane. When there is a lack of cholesterol, this can lead to defects in synaptic transmission due to impaired vesicle fusion. This study found that cholesterol is necessary for calcium dependent fusion to occur as it helps to reduce the energy barrier for fusion to take place. Additionally, cholesterol appears to be important for the formation of membrane deformations and bends caused by synaptotagmin 1, which lowers the energy barrier for fusion to occur. This article was authored by Huda Yasmin Ali Musa, Kyung Chul Shin, Janarthan and Ponraj, and others.