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Updated: Jul 2, 2026
Proteomics to Identify Proteins Interacting with P2X2 Ligand-Gated Cation Channels
Published on: May 18, 2009
Expression of P2X5 receptors in the mouse CNS
1Department of Neurobiology, Second Military Medical University 200433 Shanghai, PR China.
Abstract:
P2X receptors are ATP-gated cationic channels composed of seven known subunits (P2X1-7) which are involved in different functions in neural tissue. The present study investigates the P2X5 receptor expression pattern in the mouse CNS using immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization histochemistry. The specificity of the immunostaining has been verified by pre-absorption, Western blot and in situ hybridization methods. Heavy P2X5 receptor immunostaining was observed in the mitral cells of the olfactory bulb; cerebral cortex; globus pallidum, anterior cortical amygdaloid nucleus, amygdalohippocampal area of subcortical telencephalon; anterior nuclei, anteroventral nucleus, ventrolateral nucleus of thalamus; supraoptic nucleus, ventromedial nucleus, arcuate nucleus of hypothalamus; substantia nigra of midbrain; pontine nuclei, mesencephalic trigeminal nucleus, motor trigeminal nucleus, ambiguous nucleus, inferior olive, hypoglossal nucleus, dorsal motor vagus nucleus, area postrema of hindbrain; Purkinje cells of cerebellum; and spinal cord. The identification of extensive P2X5 receptor immunoreactivity and mRNA distribution within the CNS of the mouse demonstrated here is consistent with a role for extracellular ATP acting as a fast neurotransmitter.
Insights
This study maps the expression of P2X5 receptors in the mouse central nervous system (CNS). Findings reveal widespread P2X5 receptor distribution, suggesting a key role for ATP as a neurotransmitter.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- P2X receptors are ATP-gated ion channels with diverse functions in neural tissue.
- Seven subunits (P2X1-7) form these channels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression pattern of the P2X5 receptor subunit within the mouse central nervous system (CNS).
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization histochemistry were employed to detect P2X5 receptor expression.
- Specificity was confirmed via pre-absorption, Western blot, and in situ hybridization.
Main Results:
- Extensive P2X5 receptor immunostaining and mRNA were observed across various brain regions, including the olfactory bulb, cerebral cortex, thalamus, hypothalamus, midbrain, hindbrain, cerebellum, and spinal cord.
- Specific localization included mitral cells, Purkinje cells, and numerous nuclei throughout the CNS.
Conclusions:
- The widespread distribution of P2X5 receptors and their mRNA supports a significant role for extracellular ATP as a fast neurotransmitter in the CNS.
