Purinergic signalling: past, present and future
1Autonomic Neuroscience Centre, Royal Free and University College Medical School, London, UK. g.burnstock@ucl.ac.uk
Summary
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a key neurotransmitter in the nervous system, involved in both rapid signaling and long-term cell functions. Purinergic signaling plays a role in various neurological conditions and diseases.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic neurotransmission discovered in the 1960s.
- Adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) identified as a neurotransmitter in the 1970s.
- Purinergic cotransmission concept established in 1976, with ATP recognized as a universal cotransmitter.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical development and current understanding of purinergic signaling.
- To explore the diverse roles of purinergic signaling in neurotransmission and cell regulation.
- To discuss the implications of purinergic signaling in neuropathology and disease.
Main Methods:
- Historical review of key discoveries and research milestones.
- Description of purinergic receptor families (P1 and P2) and their subtypes.
- Discussion of mechanisms of ATP release and breakdown.
Main Results:
- ATP acts as a cotransmitter throughout the nervous system.
- Four P1 receptor subtypes and multiple P2X and G protein-coupled receptor subtypes identified.
- Purinergic signaling mediates both short-term (neurotransmission) and long-term (trophic) effects.
- Purinergic mechanisms are implicated in development, aging, and diseases like hypertension and bladder disorders.
Conclusions:
- Purinergic signaling is fundamental to nervous system function.
- Dysregulation of purinergic signaling contributes to various neuropathologies.
- Neuron-glial interactions in purinergic signaling are critical in central nervous system diseases.
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