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Physiological synaptic interactions mediated by potassium ions

M E Spira, Y Yarom

    Journal De Physiologie
    |January 1, 1982
    PubMed
    Summary
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    Neurons communicate via extracellular potassium increases following action potentials. This potassium-mediated giant synaptic potential (GGSP) in cockroaches is a novel, efficient neuronal interaction mechanism.

    Area of Science:

    • Neuroscience
    • Cellular Neuroscience
    • Insect Neuroscience

    Background:

    • Neuronal communication is crucial for nervous system function.
    • Specific mechanisms of neuronal interaction are continuously being discovered.
    • Giant interneurons (GIN) play significant roles in insect sensory processing.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the mechanism of reciprocal synaptic interactions between adjacent giant interneurons (GIN) in the cockroach Periplaneta americana.
    • To characterize the properties of the giant synaptic potential (GGSP).
    • To determine if extracellular potassium accumulation mediates neuronal interactions.

    Main Methods:

    • Intracellular recording and stimulation of adjacent GIN in the metathoracic ganglion (T3).

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  • Pharmacological manipulation using cobalt ions and TEA.
  • Electron microscopy to examine GIN proximity.
  • Voltage-clamp experiments to rule out electrotonic coupling.

    • Main Results:

    • A reciprocal synaptic interaction (GGSP) with a 1 ms delay, 5-8 mV amplitude, and 60-100 ms decay was identified.
    • GGSP was unaffected by cobalt ions but was reduced by TEA, which prolonged action potentials.
    • No direct current spread between adjacent giant axons was observed, ruling out electrotonic synapses.
    • Electron microscopy revealed GIN plasma membranes in close proximity (7-10 nm).

    Conclusions:

    • The GGSP is mediated by extracellular potassium ion accumulation, not direct electrical coupling.
    • Increased extracellular potassium following an action potential facilitates neuronal communication between adjacent GIN.
    • Close proximity of GIN membranes may represent sites for potassium-mediated interactions.