Otoferlin (OTOF)

Key calcium ion detector involved in the Ca(2+)-triggered synaptic vesicle-plasma membrane fusion and in the control of neurotransmitter release at these output synapses. Interacts in a calcium-dependent way into the presynaptic SNARE proteins in ribbon synapses of cochlear inner hair cells (IHCs) to trigger exocytosis of neurotransmitter.

Also essential to synaptic exocytosis in immature outer hair cells (OHCs). May also play a role within the recycling of endosomes (By similarity).