title: Ion channels and information processing in GnRH neuron dendrites.
abstract: Recent findings indicate that a majority of action potentials originate from dendrites of GnRH neurons. This localization of the dendrite as the principle site of action potential initiation has sparked considerable interest in the nature of ionic channels throughout GnRH neurons. This paper will review the ionic conductances described within GnRH neurons and their implications for physiological output, such as sensitivity to steroids and diurnal state. To date, a majority of information regarding ionic conductances in GnRH neurons pertains to somata and the first 50-100 µm of dendrite length. Thus, unraveling the tapestry created by the nature and distribution of dendritic conductances in GnRH neurons lies at the forefront of understanding the control of reproductive hormone secretion.
authors.affiliation: Department of Biology, University of Texas San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.
authors.forename: Rachael
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Norberg
authors.forename: Rebecca
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Campbell
authors.forename: Kelly J
authors.initials: KJ
authors.lastname: Suter
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D003712:Dendrites / Q000378:metabolism*; D007987:Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D007473:Ion Channels / Q000378:metabolism*
chemical_list: D007473:Ion Channels; D007987:Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone
keywords: GnRH neurons; conductance; dendrites; estradiol; hypothalamus; modeling; morphology; puberty