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Respiratory rhythm generation in mammals: synaptic and membrane properties
J M Ramirez1, P Telgkamp, F P Elsen
1Department of Organismal Biology and Anatomy, University of Chicago, IL 60637, USA. Jramire@midway.uchicago.edu
Respiration Physiology
|January 4, 1998
Summary
Inhibitory and excitatory synaptic inputs are crucial for generating respiratory rhythms. These inputs, along with intrinsic neuronal properties, shape respiratory neuron depolarization patterns and rhythm switching.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Respiratory Physiology
Background:
- Respiratory rhythm generation involves complex neuronal interactions.
- Understanding the roles of synaptic inputs in this process is key.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how inhibitory and excitatory synaptic inputs influence respiratory neuron depolarization patterns.
- To determine the role of these inputs in respiratory rhythm generation and switching.
Main Methods:
- Voltage-clamp recordings from respiratory neurons in mouse brain slices (in vitro) and adult cats (in vivo).
- Utilized specific antagonists for inhibitory synaptic transmission (glycinergic and glutamatergic).
- Performed chloride injections into in vivo respiratory neurons and negative current injections in vitro.
Main Results:
- Inspiratory and post-inspiratory neurons receive concurrent glycinergic and glutamatergic input during inspiration.
- Inhibitory input is essential for respiratory neuron depolarization patterns and rhythm switching.
- Intrinsic bursting properties amplify excitatory synaptic input in some inspiratory neurons in vitro.
Conclusions:
- The network organization for respiratory neurons is similar in vitro and in vivo.
- Inhibitory and excitatory synaptic inputs, alongside intrinsic membrane properties, are fundamental to respiratory rhythm generation.