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Purinergic transmission in the central nervous system
R Alan North1, Alexei Verkhratsky
1Faculty of Life Sciences, The University of Manchester, 1.124 Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK.
Pflugers Archiv : European Journal of Physiology
|May 12, 2006
Summary
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a key extracellular signal in the central nervous system (CNS). It acts as an excitatory neurotransmitter and mediates communication between neurons and glial cells.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cellular signaling
Background:
- Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) was discovered in 1929.
- ATP functions as a crucial extracellular signaling molecule.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of ATP in the central nervous system (CNS).
- To understand ATP's function in neuronal and glial communication.
Main Methods:
- The study reviews the known functions and mechanisms of ATP signaling.
Main Results:
- ATP is released from synaptic terminals and acts as an excitatory neurotransmitter.
- ATP binds to various receptors, mediating neuronal excitation.
- Glial cells possess ATP receptors, initiating calcium signaling and membrane currents.
- ATP released from astroglia mediates glial-glial and glial-neuronal signaling.
Conclusions:
- ATP plays a significant role in both synaptic transmission and broader neuronal-glial communication within the CNS.
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