Purinergic cotransmission.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is recognized as a cotransmitter alongside classical neurotransmitters in both peripheral and central nervous systems.
• Its release proportions vary significantly across different tissues, species, and developmental or pathophysiological states.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the established roles and diverse functions of ATP as a cotransmitter in neuronal signaling.
• To highlight the significance of purinergic cotransmission in various physiological systems and disease states.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating ATP release and function.
• Analysis of evidence from neuromuscular junctions, sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves, sensory neurons, and the central nervous system.

Main Results:

• ATP is coreleased with acetylcholine (ACh) at the neuromuscular junction, acting on P2X receptors.
• Purinergic cotransmission involving ATP is demonstrated in sympathetic nerves (e.g., noradrenaline), parasympathetic nerves (e.g., ACh), and sensory neurons (e.g., glutamate).
• ATP is also a cotransmitter with nitric oxide and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide in the enteric nervous system and coexists with various neurotransmitters in the central nervous system.

Conclusions:

• ATP is a widespread and versatile cotransmitter in both the peripheral and central nervous systems.
• Purinergic signaling mediated by ATP plays critical roles in diverse neural functions and warrants further investigation in various pathophysiological conditions.