Cell-specific contact selects transmitter responses in an identified leech neuron.
Serotonergic Retzius (R) neurons of the leech form a Cl-dependent synapse with pressure-sensitive (P) neurons both in vivo and in vitro. However, P cells show an extrasynaptic, cationic response to application of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) which is reduced upon contact between the neurons in culture. We have examined the cellular specificity of the selection of 5-HT responses in the P cell by pairing it in culture with a variety of identified neurons. Non-synaptic sensory cells, non-serotonergic pre- and postsynaptic partners and serotonergic neurons that do not form chemical synapses with the P cell failed to alter its responses to 5-HT. The selective reduction of the extrasynaptic response to 5-HT in the P cell therefore appears to be induced specifically by contact with its only known serotonergic partner during neuronal recognition leading to synapse formation.
Centre for Research in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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Merz
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Drapeau
D000818:Animals; D002450:Cell Communication / Q000502:physiology; D002478:Cells, Cultured; D007865:Leeches; D009420:Nervous System / Q000254:growth & development; D009474:Neurons / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000502:physiology; D012701:Serotonin / Q000494:pharmacology*; D013569:Synapses / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology
D012701:Serotonin