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Vector-free gravity disrupts synapse formation in cell culture
1Department of Physiology, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson 85724.
The American Journal of Physiology
|March 1, 1990
Summary
Altered gravity conditions, such as those in space, significantly inhibit synapse formation during embryonic development. This suggests that the nervous system
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Gravitational Biology
Background:
- Terrestrial organisms have evolved under constant gravity.
- Embryonic development may be influenced by altered gravitational forces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of altered gravity on embryonic synapse formation.
- To use nerve-associated acetylcholine receptor patches (NARPs) as an index of synaptogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Cultured embryonic spinal neurons and myocytes were subjected to simulated microgravity using a rotating clinostat.
- Nerve-muscle cocultures were exposed to altered gravity before or during nerve-muscle contact.
Main Results:
- Synapse formation (NARPs) was inhibited when nerve contact occurred during simulated microgravity.
- Existing synapses were unaffected if formed before rotation.
- The area of NARPs was significantly reduced in cultures exposed to altered gravity during contact.
Conclusions:
- Synapse formation is sensitive to the gravitational vector.
- Embryonic nervous system development in space may differ significantly from terrestrial development.