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Calcium influx pathways in rat CNS pericytes
Masahiro Kamouchi1, Takanari Kitazono, Tetsuro Ago
1Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan. kamouchi@intmed2.med.kyushu-u.ac.jp
Brain Research. Molecular Brain Research
|July 14, 2004
Summary
Central nervous system pericytes exhibit contractile abilities and utilize specific calcium signaling pathways for regulation. This study elucidates their role in microcirculation and blood-brain barrier functions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Physiology
Background:
- Central nervous system (CNS) pericytes are crucial for blood-brain barrier integrity and microcirculation.
- Their contractile functions and calcium (Ca2+) signaling mechanisms remain largely uncharacterized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the contractile responses of CNS pericytes.
- To elucidate the Ca2+ influx pathways involved in their function.
Main Methods:
- Cultured rat brain pericytes were used to assess contraction via surface area changes.
- Reverse transcription and polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) identified alpha-smooth muscle actin expression.
- Fura-2 fluorescence spectroscopy measured intracellular Ca2+ dynamics.
Main Results:
- CNS pericytes demonstrated contractile responses to stimuli like endothelin-1 and serotonin.
- RT-PCR confirmed the expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin mRNA.
- Ca2+ influx occurred through L-type voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels, agonist-activated channels, and capacitative Ca2+ entry.
Conclusions:
- CNS pericytes possess contractile capabilities, mediated by alpha-smooth muscle actin.
- Their membrane potential is regulated by Ca2+-activated K+ channels.
- Multiple Ca2+ entry pathways contribute to intracellular Ca2+ signaling in CNS pericytes.