FMRFamide-related peptides potentiate transmission at the squid giant synapse

The stellate ganglion of the squid Loligo pealli contains the neuropeptides Phe-Met-Arg-Phe-NH2 (FMRFamide), Phe-Leu-Arg-Phe-NH2 (FLRFamide) and at least one N-terminally extended FMRFamide-related peptide that is yet to be fully characterized. Both local application and arterial perfusion of FLRFamide potentiate transmission at the giant synapse. The N-terminally related peptide Ser-Asp-Pro-Phe-Leu-Arg-Phe-NH2 (SDPFLRFamide) produced a similar effect. The threshold for both the tetra- and the hepta-peptides was less than 10 microM. Potentiation could be detected as an increase in rate of rise of the EPSPs, as an increase in amplitude of the EPSP in the absence of spikes, or under voltage clamp as an increase in the EPSC. The effect was most pronounced when the synapse was fatigued by high frequency stimulation. Another molluscan peptide, eledoisin and also leucine enkephalin were without effect. In the absence of any detectable effects of FLRFamide on the resting membrane potential of either pre- or postsynaptic terminals or on the presynaptic spike, it is suggested that the peptide influences transmitter mobilization. However, the peptide could also exert small changes in preterminal calcium currents, which so far we have been unable to detect.