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The pre-Bötzinger oscillator in the mouse embryo.
1Neurobiologie Génétique et Intégrative, Institut de Neurobiologie Alfred Fessard, CNRS, 1 av. de la terrasse, 91198 Gif sur Yvette, France.
Journal of Physiology, Paris
|July 14, 2007
Summary
The pre-Bötzinger complex (preBötC), crucial for mammalian breathing, originates in the embryonic hindbrain. Glutamate vesicular transporter 2 is essential for its rhythm generation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Physiology
Background:
- Mammalian respiratory rhythm generation involves coupled neuronal oscillators in the brainstem.
- The pre-Bötzinger complex (preBötC) and para-facial respiratory group are key neuronal clusters.
- Their specific locations likely arise from embryonic hindbrain patterning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the embryonic origin and development of the preBötC oscillator.
- To identify molecular requirements for preBötC rhythm generation.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing embryonic mouse models.
- Electrophysiological recordings to assess neuronal activity.
- Genetic manipulation to study transporter function.
Main Results:
- The preBötC oscillator exhibits activity during early embryonic stages.
- The origin of the preBötC is traced to the post-otic hindbrain neural tube.
- Rhythm generation by the preBötC is dependent on glutamate vesicular transporter 2.
Conclusions:
- The preBötC is an early-developing embryonic structure.
- Specific molecular machinery, including glutamate vesicular transporter 2, is critical for respiratory rhythm.
- This provides insights into the developmental basis of respiratory control.
