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TRPA1 as a O2 sensor detects microenvironmental hypoxia in the mice anterior cingulate cortex
Ryo Kawabata1,2, Shuji Shimoyama3, Shinya Ueno3
1Department of Biomedical Chemistry major, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Kwansei Gakuin University, Sanda, Hyogo, Japan.
Scientific Reports
|February 22, 2023
Summary
Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) channels in the brain
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Physiology
Background:
- Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) is a TRP channel expressed in the nervous system.
- TRPA1's role in the central nervous system (CNS) remains largely unknown.
- TRPA1 is known to sense cold and pain in the periphery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the function of TRPA1 in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) of the brain.
- To determine TRPA1's effects on neuronal activity and synaptic transmission.
- To explore TRPA1's role as an oxygen sensor in neurons.
Main Methods:
- Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings were performed on mouse ACC layer II/III pyramidal neurons.
- TRPA1 was activated using cinnamaldehyde (CA) and its function was assessed using TRPA1 antagonists.
- Neuronal responses to acute hypoxia were examined by altering oxygen levels and using channel blockers.
Main Results:
- TRPA1 activation by CA produced inward currents, altering action potential properties but not spontaneous synaptic transmission.
- Acute hypoxia induced biphasic currents (inward then outward) in ACC neurons.
- TRPA1 antagonists reduced hypoxia-induced inward currents, while KATP channel blockers inhibited outward currents.
Conclusions:
- TRPA1 modulates neuronal excitability in the ACC.
- TRPA1 functions as a postsynaptic acute oxygen (O2) sensor in the brain.
- TRPA1 plays a role in neuronal responses to hypoxic conditions.
