Neurotransmission in the brain by diffusion through the extracellular fluid: a review.
Synaptic or 'hard wired' neurotransmission in the brain, subject to modulation by a class of substances called modulators, has been the dominant model of brain function. However, increasing evidence for alternate non-synaptic neurotransmission mechanisms is forcing consideration of a more inclusive model. Evidence is presented for such neurotransmitter systems that require diffusion through the extracellular fluid. Old and new findings have been interpreted within a conceptual framework that is not centered on the synaptic model, but instead considers a continuum of neurotransmitter actions.
Bach-y-Rita
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Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison 53706.
D000818:Animals; D001921:Brain / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism; D004058:Diffusion; D005110:Extracellular Space / Q000378:metabolism*; D009473:Neuronal Plasticity / Q000502:physiology; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000378:metabolism*; D013569:Synapses / Q000378:metabolism; D009435:Synaptic Transmission / Q000502:physiology*; D014785:Vision, Ocular / Q000502:physiology
D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents