beta-Alanine, a possible neurotransmitter in the visual system?
The chemically evoked efflux of endogenous amino acids from perfused rabbit superior colliculus (SC) slices was studied. Amino acids in the perfusates were determined fluorimetrically with a precolumn derivatisation method and subsequent separation on an HPLC column. Potassium-induced depolarisation caused a calcium-dependent release of beta-alanine, GABA, glutamate, and aspartate. Veratridine-evoked efflux was essentially similar in selectivity and could be blocked by tetrodotoxin (TTX). The results are indicative of a neurotransmitter role of beta-alanine, GABA, glutamate, and aspartate in the SC of the rabbit.
D000409:Alanine / Q000378:metabolism*; D000596:Amino Acids / Q000494:pharmacology; D000818:Animals; D002851:Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000302:isolation & purification / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000494:pharmacology; D011817:Rabbits; D013477:Superior Colliculi / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism*; D013654:Taurine / Q000378:metabolism; D014701:Veratridine / Q000494:pharmacology; D015091:beta-Alanine / Q000302:isolation & purification / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000494:pharmacology
D000596:Amino Acids; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents; D015091:beta-Alanine; D013654:Taurine; D014701:Veratridine; D000409:Alanine