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Striatal Cholinergic Signaling in Time and Space
Dvyne Nosaka1, Jeffery R Wickens1
1Neurobiology Research Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Onna-son 904-0412, Japan.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
|February 25, 2022
Summary
Cholinergic interneurons in the striatum release acetylcholine (ACh) in a manner consistent with rapid, point-to-point signaling. This neurotransmitter
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cellular Signaling
- Neurotransmission
Background:
- Cholinergic interneurons constitute a small cell population in the striatum.
- These neurons possess extensive axonal arborizations, contributing significantly to the striatum's high acetylcholine content.
- The prevailing hypothesis suggests volume transmission of acetylcholine via extrasynaptic varicosities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence supporting the prevailing theory of striatal cholinergic interneuron signaling.
- To mathematically model acetylcholine release and diffusion dynamics.
- To investigate the temporospatial distribution of acetylcholine following release.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing evidence.
- Development and application of a mathematical model integrating published measurements.
- Analysis of data from genetically encoded sensors.
Main Results:
- Acetylcholine distribution is characterized by short-range and short-lived signaling, primarily driven by diffusion.
- Evidence supports point-to-point transmission of acetylcholine within steep concentration gradients.
- Transient acetylcholine peaks near release sites may enable faithful spike timing transmission.
Conclusions:
- Striatal cholinergic interneuron signaling is more akin to point-to-point transmission than previously thought.
- Short-range signaling is distinct from ambient concentrations produced by distant release sites.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the synaptic transmission mechanisms of these interneurons.
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