Target dependence of hypoglossal motor neurons during development in maturity

We have investigated the target dependence of hypoglossal motor neurons in postnatal rats by transecting the hypoglossal nerve and preventing reinnervation of the tongue. After transection in early postnatal life, approximately 60% of hypoglossal motor neurons die and surviving neurons are markedly atrophic compared to contralateral controls. In maturity, there is also substantial neuronal atrophy and about 30% of motor neurons appear to die after the procedure. However, most hypoglossal neurons in adults survive transection for periods up to 1 year. The adult response is present by 3 weeks of age. The time course of neuronal atrophy and death after permanent target deprivation was investigated in adult animals. One month after the hypoglossal nerve was deflected, there was marked axonal atrophy, although somatic atrophy was minimal. By 3 months after the procedure substantial neuronal atrophy and apparent cell loss (about 30%) had occurred. There was little change between 3 and 6 months. We conclude that hypoglossal motor neurons are influenced by connections with their targets in postnatal life. Even in maturity, neurons require target connections for maintenance of axonal and somatic morphology. However, the majority of motor neurons in adult animals can survive target deprivation for prolonged periods.