Model peptidergic systems at the insect neuromuscular junction.
The emergence of neuropeptides as a prominent neurotransmitter class raises fundamental new questions about modes of chemical signaling in the nervous system. These relate to the large number of peptides, their co-localization in neurons and to novel actions at innervated targets. Synaptic preparations in insects offer excellent experimental models for studies of multiple transmitters and their joint actions at uniquely identified nerve-muscle junctions. Peptidergic systems in insects are reviewed with particular reference to two identified neuromuscular preparations which demonstrate cotransmitter actions of peptides and "classical" neurotransmitter substances.
O'Shea
M
M
Adams
M E
ME
Bishop
C
C
Witten
J
J
Worden
M K
MK
D000818:Animals; D007301:Insect Hormones / Q000502:physiology*; D007313:Insecta / Q000502:physiology*; D008053:Lipid Mobilization; D009046:Motor Neurons / Q000502:physiology; D009419:Nerve Tissue Proteins / Q000502:physiology*; D009469:Neuromuscular Junction / Q000502:physiology*; D009479:Neuropeptides; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000502:physiology*; D009842:Oligopeptides / Q000502:physiology
D007301:Insect Hormones; D009419:Nerve Tissue Proteins; D009479:Neuropeptides; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents; D009842:Oligopeptides; C011536:proctolin