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Tissue distribution of the P2X7 receptor
G Collo1, S Neidhart, E Kawashima
1Geneva Biomedical Research Institute, Glaxo Wellcome Research and Development, Switzerland.
Neuropharmacology
|November 19, 1997
Summary
The P2X7 receptor, a key molecule in cellular responses, is expressed in brain immune cells like microglia and macrophages, suggesting its role in brain repair after injury. This study maps its distribution in various tissues.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The P2X7 receptor is a bifunctional molecule activated by ATP, forming a cation-selective channel and a larger pore.
- Its distribution and role in different tissues, particularly the brain, require detailed investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the tissue and cellular distribution of P2X7 receptor mRNA and protein in rat and mouse models.
- To investigate the potential role of P2X7 receptor expression in brain injury and repair.
Main Methods:
- In situ hybridization with digoxigenin-labelled riboprobes.
- Immunohistochemistry using an antibody against a C-terminal peptide sequence.
- Northern blotting for RNA analysis.
Main Results:
- P2X7 receptor mRNA was detected in newborn rat brain but not adult brain by Northern blotting.
- In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry revealed P2X7 receptor expression in ependymal cells, activated microglia in the penumbra of brain injury, and a mouse microglial cell line (NTW8).
- P2X7 receptor mRNA and protein were also found in bone marrow cells, including granulocytes, monocyte/macrophages, and B lymphocytes.
Conclusions:
- P2X7 receptor expression is primarily associated with immune cells in the brain, such as microglia and macrophages, rather than neurons.
- This expression pattern suggests a role for the P2X7 receptor in brain repair mechanisms following inflammatory or ischemic insults.