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Neurotransmitter segregation: functional and plastic implications
Cynthia Sámano1, Fredy Cifuentes, Miguel Angel Morales
1Departamento de Biología Celular & Fisiología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 3er Circuito Exterior s/número, Cd. Universitaria, México D.F. 04510, Mexico.
Progress in Neurobiology
|April 26, 2012
Summary
Neurons can release different chemical messengers (transmitters) from separate axon terminals, a process called transmitter segregation. This finding challenges previous assumptions and suggests a more dynamic control over synaptic communication and plasticity.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Synaptic Transmission
Background:
- Synaptic cotransmission involves neurons releasing multiple transmitters.
- Traditionally, neurons were thought to release the same transmitters from all axon endings.
- Emerging evidence suggests transmitter segregation to different synapses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review studies on transmitter segregation in various nervous systems.
- To present new data on transmitter segregation in sympathetic neurons.
- To propose mechanisms and implications of transmitter segregation.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on transmitter segregation.
- Experimental analysis of transmitter storage and release in sympathetic neurons.
Main Results:
- Sympathetic neurons segregate even classic transmitters to distinct axons.
- Transmitter segregation is observed in invertebrate and mammalian central nervous systems.
- Segregation appears to be a plastic phenomenon influenced by functional needs and environmental cues.
Conclusions:
- Neurons possess mechanisms to sort transmitters to specific axon endings.
- Transmitter segregation enhances cotransmission and provides finer control over synaptic plasticity.
- This segregation allows for improved neuron interactions and tailored synaptic responses.
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