P2X₂ Receptor Deficiency in Mouse Vestibular End Organs Attenuates Vestibular Function

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Otolaryngology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• P2X2 receptors are ATP-gated ion channels modulating neural transmission.
• Their role in the cochlea is known, but their function in the vestibular system remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate P2X2 receptor localization in the peripheral vestibular system.
• To assess the physiological function of P2X2 receptors in vivo using P2X2 receptor knockout (P2X2-KO) mice.

Main Methods:

• Histological analysis of P2X2 receptor distribution.
• Behavioral tests (balance beam) and vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) assessment in P2X2-KO mice.

Main Results:

• P2X2 receptors are localized on supporting and transitional cells in vestibular end organs.
• P2X2-KO mice showed impaired balance and reduced VOR gain.
• Optokinetic response remained unaffected in P2X2-KO mice.

Conclusions:

• P2X2 receptors are primarily located in vestibular supporting cells.
• Loss of P2X2 receptors leads to mild vestibular dysfunction.
• P2X2 receptors play a modulatory role in vestibular function.