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Updated: Jan 25, 2026
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One-channel Cell-attached Patch-clamp Recording
Published on: June 9, 2014
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Dramatically Amplified Thoracic Sympathetic Postganglionic Excitability and Integrative Capacity Revealed with
Michael Lee McKinnon1, Kun Tian2, Yaqing Li1
1Department of Physiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322.
Eneuro
|May 2, 2019
Summary
Thoracic sympathetic neurons (tSPNs) demonstrate amplified excitability and synaptic integration, challenging their role as simple relays. These findings reveal their crucial function in controlling vascular and thermoregulatory systems.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Autonomic Nervous System Physiology
- Cellular Electrophysiology
Background:
- Thoracic paravertebral sympathetic postganglionic neurons (tSPNs) are traditionally viewed as passive relays in sympathetic outflow.
- Previous electrophysiological studies using microelectrodes suggested limited intrinsic excitability and inability to sustain firing.
- Potential artifacts from microelectrode impalement may have misrepresented tSPN cellular properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To electrophysiologically characterize tSPN cellular properties using whole-cell recordings.
- To investigate the principles governing tSPN excitability using a computational model.
- To re-evaluate the functional role of tSPNs in sympathetic autonomic control.
Main Methods:
- Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings from tSPNs in adult mice of both sexes.
- Coupling experimental electrophysiology with a conductance-based computational model.
- Analysis of membrane properties, firing patterns, and synaptic integration capacity.
Main Results:
- Whole-cell recordings revealed significantly higher membrane resistance and time constants compared to prior microelectrode studies.
- tSPNs exhibited a greater capacity for synaptic integration and sustained repetitive firing.
- Computational modeling indicated that microelectrode impalement injury likely accounted for previously observed limitations in firing.
- Membrane resistivity was identified as a key determinant of tSPN excitability, with lower recruitment currents.
Conclusions:
- tSPNs possess significantly amplified intrinsic excitability and synaptic integration capabilities.
- The findings support a more active and responsive role for tSPNs in driving sympathetic autonomic functions.
- tSPNs are capable of sustained firing, enabling prolonged control over vasomotor tone and thermoregulation.
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