title: Regulation of cholinergic development by target contact.
abstract: Avian ciliary ganglion neurons in cell culture have been used as a model neuronal system to examine the developmental role of direct contact with an appropriate target tissue. Live myotubes, which are immediately innervated, and their membrane remnants, on which neurons form terminal structures, were both found to stimulate or accelerate the acquisition or retention of important parameters of neuronal function. Contact with the target membrane supports survival, aids retention of active nicotinic receptors to acetylcholine, and accelerates the acquisition of adult transmitter synthetic capacity. These results emphasize the multifaceted nature of neurodevelopment, with soluble protein factors, membrane-bound elements, and other functional events all acting in concert in the embryonic nervous system.
authors.forename: J B
authors.initials: JB
authors.lastname: Tuttle
mesh_terms: D000109:Acetylcholine / Q000494:pharmacology; D000818:Animals; D002450:Cell Communication; D002470:Cell Survival; D002642:Chick Embryo; D004594:Electrophysiology; D005726:Ganglia, Parasympathetic / Q000166:cytology* / Q000187:drug effects; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D007478:Iontophoresis; D008564:Membrane Potentials; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000378:metabolism; D011312:Pressure
chemical_list: D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents; D000109:Acetylcholine