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Evaluation of Respiratory System Mechanics in Mice using the Forced Oscillation Technique
Published on: May 15, 2013
The respiratory rhythm in mutant oscillator mice
D Büsselberg1, A M Bischoff, K Becker
1Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, II. Physiologisches Institut, Humboldtallee 23, D-37073 Göttingen, Germany. dietrich.bberg@uni-essen.de
Neuroscience Letters
|December 18, 2001
Summary
Loss of glycine receptors in oscillator mice impairs respiratory rhythm, but does not cause failure. Respiratory neurons show persistent GABAergic inhibition and altered rhythm generation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Respiratory Physiology
Background:
- Glycinergic inhibition is crucial for respiratory rhythm generation in mammals.
- The spd(ot)/spd(ot) mouse model experiences loss of glycine receptors during postnatal development (P17-P23).
Purpose of the Study:
- To test if glycine receptor loss impairs respiratory rhythm in spd(ot)/spd(ot) mice.
- To investigate the effects on respiratory neuron activity and membrane properties.
Main Methods:
- Breathing measured using plethysmography in conscious mice.
- In situ perfused brainstem preparation used to record phrenic nerve activity.
- Respiratory neuron membrane properties analyzed.
Main Results:
- Homozygous mutant oscillator mice generated a disturbed, not failed, respiratory rhythm until death.
- Respiratory neurons maintained postsynaptic activity and GABAergic inhibition.
- Changes in respiratory rhythm and pattern generation were observed.
Conclusions:
- Glycinergic inhibition loss does not abolish respiratory rhythm generation.
- GABAergic inhibition persists and contributes to altered respiratory patterns in spd(ot)/spd(ot) mice.
