Role of electrical coupling via connexin 36 containing gap junctions in sympathetic preganglionic neurons

Loading...
Thumbnail Image
Date
2020-08
Authors
Tavakoli, Hossein
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
Gap junctions are cluster of channels on the plasma membrane formed by connexin proteins that connect cytoplasm of adjacent cells. Connexins are essential to normal development and function in neonatal and adult mammals by forming electrical synapses between cells, including neurons within the central nervous system (CNS). In the present study, we documented the distribution of connexin 36, (Cx36) in sympathetic preganglionic neurons (SPNs) in the intermediolateral column (IML), lateral funiculus, intercalatus and central autonomic area in adult and neonatal mice and rats. Additionally, we examined the functional role of Cx36 in SPNs by comparing response of Cx36 wild-type (Cx36wt) and Cx36 knockout (Cx36ko) mice to colorectal distension (CRD) as noxious stimulation. We also provided evidence for glutamatergic and GABAergic innervation of SPNs by other electrically coupled neurons in spinal cord. Our study showed that Cx36wt and Cx36ko mice respond to CRD by an increase and a decrease in BP respectively. Spinalized wildtype mice showed an increase in BP. In addition, we attempted to compare the expression of Cx36 among SPNs in intact and spinalized mice and study the organization of electrical coupling in these neurons utilizing dye coupling methods. All results taken together, this work further supports the evidence for SPN electrical coupling via Cx36 and provides more detailed understanding of its organization. It also broadens our knowledge about sympathetic activity in general.
Description
Keywords
Connexin36, Electrical synapses, Gap junctions, Spinal sympathetic neurons, Spinal cord injury
Citation