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UTP activates multiple second messenger systems in cultured rat astrocytes
1Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City 52242.
Neuroscience Letters
|November 12, 1993
Summary
Astrocytes respond to UTP, releasing thromboxane and altering calcium levels. This suggests a distinct UTP-sensitive receptor on astrocytes, separate from the P2Y-purinergic receptor.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Astrocytes, a type of glial cell, are known to activate second messenger systems in response to adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
- Recent studies suggest uridine triphosphate (UTP) may elicit similar responses to ATP in certain cell types.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether UTP activates similar signaling pathways in astrocytes as ATP.
- To identify potential UTP receptors on astrocyte cell membranes.
Main Methods:
- Cultured astrocytes were stimulated with UTP.
- Assays were performed to measure thromboxane release, inositol phospholipid turnover, and intracellular free calcium concentration.
- Immunoblotting with an antibody against a putative rat fibroblast P2U receptor was used to identify membrane proteins.
Main Results:
- UTP stimulation evoked thromboxane release from astrocytes.
- UTP increased inositol phospholipid turnover and intracellular free calcium levels.
- A 53 kDa protein was identified on astrocyte membranes, recognized by an antibody for a P2U receptor.
Conclusions:
- Astrocytes possess a UTP-sensitive receptor.
- This receptor may be distinct from the known P2Y-purinergic receptors, suggesting a novel signaling pathway in astrocytes.