Re-development of synaptic connections after implanted single 5-HT containing neuron in isolated leech ganglia

Single mature Retzius cells which contain 5-HT have been implanted in isolated ganglia of Whitmania pigra. The properties of the implanted Retzius cell and its connections with the original identified nerve cells of the ganglia have been measured by intracellular microelectrodes. At 3 days in culture an implanted Retzius cell maintains its normal electrical membrane properties. It also forms the non-rectifying electronic coupling with the original Retzius cell and rectifying junctions with the L motor neuron of the host ganglion. In addition it receives chemical inputs of the impulse from T and N sensory neurons of ganglion. Impulses in the implanted Retzius cell evoke synaptic potentials in the L motor neuron. In this paper the appearance of novel synapses, which are formed by implanting an extra mature neuron as a pre- or post-synaptic element, is described. It might represent functional development of central nervous system at an earlier stage.