Work

The Activation of Excitatory Glutamate Receptors Evokes a Long-Lasting Increase in the Release of GABA from Cerebellar Stellate Cells

Year: 2006

Type: article

Abstract: The excitability of a neuron is regulated by the balance of excitatory and inhibitory inputs that impinge on it. Such modulation can occur either presynaptically or postsynaptically. Here, we show that an excitatory transmitter can increase the release of an inhibitory transmitter and thus paradoxically produces a long-lasting enhancement of inhibitory synaptic transmission. This occurs at a near-physiological temperature. These findings from cerebellar stellate neurons reveal a novel form of long-term potentiation that is induced by the activation of NMDA-type glutamate receptors and that requires both glutamate and glycine. Our results indicate that Ca2+ entry into the presynaptic terminals during the activation of presynaptic NMDARs is necessary to induce the potentiation. This presynaptic modulation provides a mechanism by which an excitatory transmitter can induce a long-term increase in the release of an inhibitory transmitter and thus modify the activity of a simple neuronal circuit.

Source: Journal of Neuroscience

DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2929-06.2006

Authors: Siqiong June Liu, Philippe Lachamp

Institution: Pennsylvania State University

Language: English

Topic: Neuroscience and Neuropharmacology Research

Subfield: Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Funders: National Science Foundation, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke