title: beta-Alanine, a possible neurotransmitter in the visual system?
abstract: 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.
mesh_terms: 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
chemical_list: D000596:Amino Acids; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents; D015091:beta-Alanine; D013654:Taurine; D014701:Veratridine; D000409:Alanine