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SheikhBahaei S, Marina N, Rajani V, Kasparov S, Funk GD, Smith JC, Gourine AV. Contributions of carotid bodies, retrotrapezoid nucleus neurons and preBötzinger complex astrocytes to the CO 2 -sensitive drive for breathing. J Physiol 2024; 602:223-240. [PMID: 37742121 PMCID: PMC10841148 DOI: 10.1113/jp283534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Current models of respiratory CO2 chemosensitivity are centred around the function of a specific population of neurons residing in the medullary retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN). However, there is significant evidence suggesting that chemosensitive neurons exist in other brainstem areas, including the rhythm-generating region of the medulla oblongata - the preBötzinger complex (preBötC). There is also evidence that astrocytes, non-neuronal brain cells, contribute to central CO2 chemosensitivity. In this study, we reevaluated the relative contributions of the RTN neurons, the preBötC astrocytes, and the carotid body chemoreceptors in mediating the respiratory responses to CO2 in experimental animals (adult laboratory rats). To block astroglial signalling via exocytotic release of transmitters, preBötC astrocytes were targeted to express the tetanus toxin light chain (TeLC). Bilateral expression of TeLC in preBötC astrocytes was associated with ∼20% and ∼30% reduction of the respiratory response to CO2 in conscious and anaesthetized animals, respectively. Carotid body denervation reduced the CO2 respiratory response by ∼25%. Bilateral inhibition of RTN neurons transduced to express Gi-coupled designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drug (DREADDGi ) by application of clozapine-N-oxide reduced the CO2 response by ∼20% and ∼40% in conscious and anaesthetized rats, respectively. Combined blockade of astroglial signalling in the preBötC, inhibition of RTN neurons and carotid body denervation reduced the CO2 -induced respiratory response by ∼70%. These data further support the hypothesis that the CO2 -sensitive drive to breathe requires inputs from the peripheral chemoreceptors and several central chemoreceptor sites. At the preBötC level, astrocytes modulate the activity of the respiratory network in response to CO2 , either by relaying chemosensory information (i.e. they act as CO2 sensors) or by enhancing the preBötC network excitability to chemosensory inputs. KEY POINTS: This study reevaluated the roles played by the carotid bodies, neurons of the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) and astrocytes of the preBötC in mediating the CO2 -sensitive drive to breathe. The data obtained show that disruption of preBötC astroglial signalling, blockade of inputs from the peripheral chemoreceptors or inhibition of RTN neurons similarly reduce the respiratory response to hypercapnia. These data provide further support for the hypothesis that the CO2 -sensitive drive to breathe is mediated by the inputs from the peripheral chemoreceptors and several central chemoreceptor sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahriar SheikhBahaei
- Centre for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Neuroscience, Research Department of Neuroscience Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
- Cellular and Systems Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, 20892 MD, USA
- present address: Neuron-Glia Signaling and Circuits Unit, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, 20892 MD, USA
| | - Nephtali Marina
- Centre for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Neuroscience, Research Department of Neuroscience Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Vishaal Rajani
- Department of Physiology, Neuroscience & Mental Health Institute, Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, T6G 2E1, Canada
- present address: Division of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL A1B 3V6, Canada
| | - Sergey Kasparov
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Gregory D. Funk
- Department of Physiology, Neuroscience & Mental Health Institute, Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, T6G 2E1, Canada
| | - Jeffrey C. Smith
- Cellular and Systems Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, 20892 MD, USA
| | - Alexander V. Gourine
- Centre for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Neuroscience, Research Department of Neuroscience Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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Gonye EC, Bayliss DA. Criteria for central respiratory chemoreceptors: experimental evidence supporting current candidate cell groups. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1241662. [PMID: 37719465 PMCID: PMC10502317 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1241662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
An interoceptive homeostatic system monitors levels of CO2/H+ and provides a proportionate drive to respiratory control networks that adjust lung ventilation to maintain physiologically appropriate levels of CO2 and rapidly regulate tissue acid-base balance. It has long been suspected that the sensory cells responsible for the major CNS contribution to this so-called respiratory CO2/H+ chemoreception are located in the brainstem-but there is still substantial debate in the field as to which specific cells subserve the sensory function. Indeed, at the present time, several cell types have been championed as potential respiratory chemoreceptors, including neurons and astrocytes. In this review, we advance a set of criteria that are necessary and sufficient for definitive acceptance of any cell type as a respiratory chemoreceptor. We examine the extant evidence supporting consideration of the different putative chemoreceptor candidate cell types in the context of these criteria and also note for each where the criteria have not yet been fulfilled. By enumerating these specific criteria we hope to provide a useful heuristic that can be employed both to evaluate the various existing respiratory chemoreceptor candidates, and also to focus effort on specific experimental tests that can satisfy the remaining requirements for definitive acceptance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth C. Gonye
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
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3
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Abstract
Brain PCO2 is sensed primarily via changes in [H+]. Small pH changes are detected in the medulla oblongata and trigger breathing adjustments that help maintain arterial PCO2 constant. Larger perturbations of brain CO2/H+, possibly also sensed elsewhere in the CNS, elicit arousal, dyspnea, and stress, and cause additional breathing modifications. The retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN), a rostral medullary cluster of glutamatergic neurons identified by coexpression of Phoxb and Nmb transcripts, is the lynchpin of the central respiratory chemoreflex. RTN regulates breathing frequency, inspiratory amplitude, and active expiration. It is exquisitely responsive to acidosis in vivo and maintains breathing autorhythmicity during quiet waking, slow-wave sleep, and anesthesia. The RTN response to [H+] is partly an intrinsic neuronal property mediated by proton sensors TASK-2 and GPR4 and partly a paracrine effect mediated by astrocytes and the vasculature. The RTN also receives myriad excitatory or inhibitory synaptic inputs including from [H+]-responsive neurons (e.g., serotonergic). RTN is silenced by moderate hypoxia. RTN inactivity (periodic or sustained) contributes to periodic breathing and, likely, to central sleep apnea. RTN development relies on transcription factors Egr2, Phox2b, Lbx1, and Atoh1. PHOX2B mutations cause congenital central hypoventilation syndrome; they impair RTN development and consequently the central respiratory chemoreflex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrice G Guyenet
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States.
| | - Douglas A Bayliss
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
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4
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Guyenet PG, Stornetta RL. Rostral ventrolateral medulla, retropontine region and autonomic regulations. Auton Neurosci 2021; 237:102922. [PMID: 34814098 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2021.102922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The rostral half of the ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) and adjacent ventrolateral retropontine region (henceforth RVLMRP) have been divided into various sectors by neuroscientists interested in breathing or autonomic regulations. The RVLMRP regulates respiration, glycemia, vigilance and inflammation, in addition to blood pressure. It contains interoceptors that respond to acidification, hypoxia and intracranial pressure and its rostral end contains the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) which is the main central respiratory chemoreceptor. Acid detection by the RTN is an intrinsic property of the principal neurons that is enhanced by paracrine influences from surrounding astrocytes and CO2-dependent vascular constriction. RTN mediates the hypercapnic ventilatory response via complex projections to the respiratory pattern generator (CPG). The RVLM contributes to autonomic response patterns via differential recruitment of several subtypes of adrenergic (C1) and non-adrenergic neurons that directly innervate sympathetic and parasympathetic preganglionic neurons. The RVLM also innervates many brainstem and hypothalamic nuclei that contribute, albeit less directly, to autonomic responses. All lower brainstem noradrenergic clusters including the locus coeruleus are among these targets. Sympathetic tone to the circulatory system is regulated by subsets of presympathetic RVLM neurons whose activity is continuously restrained by the baroreceptors and modulated by the respiratory CPG. The inhibitory input from baroreceptors and the excitatory input from the respiratory CPG originate from neurons located in or close to the rhythm generating region of the respiratory CPG (preBötzinger complex).
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrice G Guyenet
- University of Virginia School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, 1340 Jefferson Park Avenue, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0735, USA.
| | - Ruth L Stornetta
- University of Virginia School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, 1340 Jefferson Park Avenue, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0735, USA.
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Andrzejewski K, Budzińska K, Kaczyńska K. Effect of 6-OHDA on hypercapnic ventilatory response in the rat model of Parkinson's disease. Physiol Res 2019; 68:285-293. [PMID: 30628829 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.933949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Breathing impairments, such as an alteration in breathing pattern, dyspnoea, and sleep apnoea, are common health deficits recognised in Parkinson's disease (PD). The mechanism that underlies these disturbances, however, remains unclear. We investigated the effect of the unilateral damage to the rat nigrostriatal pathway on the central ventilatory response to hypercapnia, evoked by administering 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) into the right medial forebrain bundle (MFB). The respiratory experiments were carried out in conscious animals in the plethysmography chamber. The ventilatory parameters were studied in normocapnic and hyperoxic hypercapnia before and 14 days after the neurotoxin injection. Lesion with the 6-OHDA produced an increased tidal volume during normoxia. The magnified response of tidal volume and a decrease of breathing frequency to hypercapnia were observed in comparison to the pre-lesion and sham controls. Changes in both respiratory parameters resulted in an increase of minute ventilation of the response to CO(2) by 28% in comparison to the pre-lesion state at 60 s. Our results demonstrate that rats with implemented unilateral PD model presented an altered respiratory pattern most often during a ventilatory response to hypercapnia. Preserved noradrenaline and specific changes in dopamine and serotonin characteristic for this model could be responsible for the pattern of breathing observed during hypercapnia.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Andrzejewski
- Department of Respiration Physiology, Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland.
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6
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Lumb KJ, Schneider JM, Ibrahim T, Rigaux A, Hasan SU. Afferent neural feedback overrides the modulating effects of arousal, hypercapnia and hypoxaemia on neonatal cardiorespiratory control. J Physiol 2018; 596:6009-6019. [PMID: 29676798 PMCID: PMC6265552 DOI: 10.1113/jp275682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Evidence obtained at whole animal, organ-system, and cellular and molecular levels suggests that afferent volume feedback is critical for the establishment of adequate ventilation at birth. As a result of the irreversible nature of the vagal ablation studies performed to date, it was difficult to quantify the roles of afferent volume input, arousal and changes in blood gas tensions on neonatal respiratory control. During reversible perineural vagal block, profound apnoeas and hypoxaemia and hypercarbia were observed, necessitating the termination of perineural blockade. Respiratory depression and apnoeas were independent of sleep state. We demonstrate that profound apnoeas and life-threatening respiratory failure in vagally denervated animals do not result from a lack of arousal or hypoxaemia. A change in sleep state and concomitant respiratory depression result from a lack of afferent volume feedback, which appears to be critical for the maintenance of normal breathing patterns and adequate gas exchange during the early postnatal period. ABSTRACT Afferent volume feedback plays a vital role in neonatal respiratory control. Mechanisms for the profound respiratory depression and life-threatening apnoeas observed in vagally denervated neonatal animals remain unclear. We investigated the roles of sleep states, hypoxic-hypercapnia and afferent volume feedback on respiratory depression using reversible perineural vagal block during the early postnatal period. Seven lambs were instrumented during the first 48 h of life to record/analyse sleep states, diaphragmatic electromyograph, arterial blood gas tensions, systemic arterial blood pressure and rectal temperature. Perineural cuffs were placed around the vagi to attain reversible blockade. Postoperatively, during the awake state, both vagi were blocked using 2% xylocaine for up to 30 min. Compared to baseline values, pHa , P a o 2 and S a o 2 decreased and P ac o 2 increased during perineural blockade (P < 0.05). Four of seven animals exhibited apnoeas of ≥20 s requiring the immediate termination of perineural blockade. Breathing rates decreased from the baseline value of 53 ± 12 to 24 ± 20 breaths min-1 during blockade despite an increased P ac o 2 (P < 0.001). Following blockade, breathing patterns returned to baseline values despite marked hypocapnia ( P ac o 2 33 ± 3 torr; P = 0.03). Respiratory depression and apnoeas were independent of sleep states. The present study provides the much needed physiological evidence indicating that profound apnoeas and life-threatening respiratory failure in vagally denervated animals do not result from a lack of arousal or hypoxaemia. Rather, a change in sleep state and concomitant respiratory depression result from a lack of afferent volume feedback, which appears to be critical for the maintenance of normal breathing patterns and adequate gas exchange during the early postnatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen J. Lumb
- Department of PediatricsAlberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryAlbertaCanada
| | - Jennifer M. Schneider
- Department of PediatricsAlberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryAlbertaCanada
| | - Thowfique Ibrahim
- Department of PediatricsAlberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryAlbertaCanada
| | - Anita Rigaux
- Department of PediatricsAlberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryAlbertaCanada
| | - Shabih U. Hasan
- Department of PediatricsAlberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryAlbertaCanada
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7
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Bishop SA, Dech RT, Guzik P, Neary JP. Heart rate variability and implication for sport concussion. Clin Physiol Funct Imaging 2017; 38:733-742. [PMID: 29144026 DOI: 10.1111/cpf.12487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Finding sensitive and specific markers for sports-related concussion is both challenging and clinically important. Such biomarkers might be helpful in the management of patients with concussion (i.e. diagnosis, monitoring and risk prediction). Among many parameters, blood flow-pressure metrics and heart rate variability (HRV) have been used to gauge concussion outcomes. Reports on the relation between HRV and both acute and prolonged concussion recovery are conflicting. While some authors report on differences in the low-frequency (LF) component of HRV during postural manipulations and postexercise conditions, others observe no significant differences in various HRV measures. Despite the early success of using the HRV LF for concussion recovery, the interpretation of the LF is debated. Recent research suggests the LF power is a net effect of several intrinsic modulatory factors from both sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the autonomic nervous system, vagally mediated baroreflex and even some respiratory influences at lower respiratory rate. There are only a few well-controlled concussion studies that specifically examine the contribution of the autonomic nervous system branches with HRV for concussion management. This study reviews the most recent HRV- concussion literature and the underlying HRV physiology. It also highlights cerebral blood flow studies related to concussion and the importance of multimodal assessment of various biological signals. It is hoped that a better understanding of the physiology behind HRV might generate cost-effective, repeatable and reliable protocols, all of which will improve the interpretation of HRV throughout concussion recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott A Bishop
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Ryan T Dech
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Przemyslaw Guzik
- Department of Cardiology-Intensive Care Therapy & Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - J Patrick Neary
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
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8
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Oliveira LM, Tuppy M, Moreira TS, Takakura AC. Role of the locus coeruleus catecholaminergic neurons in the chemosensory control of breathing in a Parkinson's disease model. Exp Neurol 2017; 293:172-180. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2017.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Revised: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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9
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Bishop S, Dech R, Baker T, Butz M, Aravinthan K, Neary JP. Parasympathetic baroreflexes and heart rate variability during acute stage of sport concussion recovery. Brain Inj 2017; 31:247-259. [DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2016.1226385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Scott Bishop
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Ryan Dech
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Taylor Baker
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Matthew Butz
- College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Kaishan Aravinthan
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - J. Patrick Neary
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
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10
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Ramirez JM, Doi A, Garcia AJ, Elsen FP, Koch H, Wei AD. The cellular building blocks of breathing. Compr Physiol 2013; 2:2683-731. [PMID: 23720262 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c110033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Respiratory brainstem neurons fulfill critical roles in controlling breathing: they generate the activity patterns for breathing and contribute to various sensory responses including changes in O2 and CO2. These complex sensorimotor tasks depend on the dynamic interplay between numerous cellular building blocks that consist of voltage-, calcium-, and ATP-dependent ionic conductances, various ionotropic and metabotropic synaptic mechanisms, as well as neuromodulators acting on G-protein coupled receptors and second messenger systems. As described in this review, the sensorimotor responses of the respiratory network emerge through the state-dependent integration of all these building blocks. There is no known respiratory function that involves only a small number of intrinsic, synaptic, or modulatory properties. Because of the complex integration of numerous intrinsic, synaptic, and modulatory mechanisms, the respiratory network is capable of continuously adapting to changes in the external and internal environment, which makes breathing one of the most integrated behaviors. Not surprisingly, inspiration is critical not only in the control of ventilation, but also in the context of "inspiring behaviors" such as arousal of the mind and even creativity. Far-reaching implications apply also to the underlying network mechanisms, as lessons learned from the respiratory network apply to network functions in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Ramirez
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institut, Seattle, Washington, USA.
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11
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Manno C, Figueroa L, Fitts R, Ríos E. Confocal imaging of transmembrane voltage by SEER of di-8-ANEPPS. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 141:371-87. [PMID: 23440278 PMCID: PMC3581694 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201210936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Imaging, optical mapping, and optical multisite recording of transmembrane potential (Vm) are essential for studying excitable cells and systems. The naphthylstyryl voltage-sensitive dyes, including di-8-ANEPPS, shift both their fluorescence excitation and emission spectra upon changes in Vm. Accordingly, they have been used for monitoring Vm in nonratioing and both emission and excitation ratioing modes. Their changes in fluorescence are usually much less than 10% per 100 mV. Conventional ratioing increases sensitivity to between 3 and 15% per 100 mV. Low sensitivity limits the value of these dyes, especially when imaged with low light systems like confocal scanners. Here we demonstrate the improvement afforded by shifted excitation and emission ratioing (SEER) as applied to imaging membrane potential in flexor digitorum brevis muscle fibers of adult mice. SEER—the ratioing of two images of fluorescence, obtained with different excitation wavelengths in different emission bands—was implemented in two commercial confocal systems. A conventional pinhole scanner, affording optimal setting of emission bands but less than ideal excitation wavelengths, achieved a sensitivity of up to 27% per 100 mV, nearly doubling the value found by conventional ratioing of the same data. A better pair of excitation lights should increase the sensitivity further, to 35% per 100 mV. The maximum acquisition rate with this system was 1 kHz. A fast “slit scanner” increased the effective rate to 8 kHz, but sensitivity was lower. In its high-sensitivity implementation, the technique demonstrated progressive deterioration of action potentials upon fatiguing tetani induced by stimulation patterns at >40 Hz, thereby identifying action potential decay as a contributor to fatigue onset. Using the fast implementation, we could image for the first time an action potential simultaneously at multiple locations along the t-tubule system. These images resolved the radially varying lag associated with propagation at a finite velocity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Manno
- Section of Cellular Signaling, Department of Molecular Biophysics and Physiology, Rush University, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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12
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Jin X, Cui N, Zhong W, Jin XT, Jiang C. GABAergic synaptic inputs of locus coeruleus neurons in wild-type and Mecp2-null mice. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2013; 304:C844-57. [PMID: 23392116 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00399.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Rett syndrome is an autism spectrum disorder resulting from defects in the gene encoding the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2). Deficiency of the Mecp2 gene causes abnormalities in several systems in the brain, especially the norepinephrinergic and GABAergic systems. The norepinephrinergic neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC) modulate a variety of neurons and play an important role in multiple functions in the central nervous system. In Mecp2(-/Y) mice, defects in the intrinsic membrane properties of LC neurons have been identified, while how their synaptic inputs are affected remains unclear. Therefore, we performed these brain slice studies to demonstrate how LC neurons are regulated by GABAergic inputs and how such synaptic inputs are affected by Mecp2 knockout. In whole cell current clamp, the firing activity of LC neurons was strongly inhibited by the GABAA receptor agonist muscimol, accompanied by hyperpolarization and a decrease in input resistance. Such a postsynaptic inhibition was significantly reduced (by ~30%) in Mecp2(-/Y) mice. Post- and presynaptic GABABergic inputs were found in LC neurons, which were likely mediated by the G protein-coupled, Ba(2+)-sensitive K(+) channels. The postsynaptic GABABergic inhibition was deficient by ~50% in Mecp2 knockout mice. Although the presynaptic GABABergic modulation appeared normal, both frequency and amplitude of the GABAAergic mIPSCs were drastically decreased (by 30-40%) in Mecp2-null mice. These results suggest that the Mecp2 disruption causes defects in both post- and presynaptic GABAergic systems in LC neurons, impairing GABAAergic and GABABergic postsynaptic inhibition and decreasing the GABA release from presynaptic terminals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Jin
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30302-4010, USA
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Wilkinson KA, Fu Z, Powell FL. Ventilatory effects of substance P-saporin lesions in the nucleus tractus solitarii of chronically hypoxic rats. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2011; 301:R343-50. [PMID: 21593425 PMCID: PMC3154706 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00375.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2010] [Accepted: 05/16/2011] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
During ventilatory acclimatization to hypoxia (VAH), time-dependent increases in ventilation lower Pco(2) levels, and this persists on return to normoxia. We hypothesized that plasticity in the caudal nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) contributes to VAH, as the NTS receives the first synapse from the carotid body chemoreceptor afferents and also contains CO(2)-sensitive neurons. We lesioned cells in the caudal NTS containing the neurokinin-1 receptor by microinjecting the neurotoxin saporin conjugated to substance P and measured ventilatory responses in awake, unrestrained rats 18 days later. Lesions did not affect hypoxic or hypercapnic ventilatory responses in normoxic control rats, in contrast to published reports for similar lesions in other central chemosensitive areas. Also, lesions did not affect the hypercapnic ventilatory response in chronically hypoxic rats (inspired Po(2) = 90 Torr for 7 days). These results suggest functional differences between central chemoreceptor sites. However, lesions significantly increased ventilation in normoxia or acute hypoxia in chronically hypoxic rats. Hence, chronic hypoxia increases an inhibitory effect of neurokinin-1 receptor neurons in the NTS on ventilatory drive, indicating that these neurons contribute to plasticity during chronic hypoxia, although such plasticity does not explain VAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A Wilkinson
- Division of Physiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, USA.
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Cui N, Zhang X, Tadepalli JS, Yu L, Gai H, Petit J, Pamulapati RT, Jin X, Jiang C. Involvement of TRP channels in the CO₂ chemosensitivity of locus coeruleus neurons. J Neurophysiol 2011; 105:2791-801. [PMID: 21430274 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00759.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Catecholaminergic neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC) play a role in the ventilatory response to hypercapnia. Here, we show evidence for the involvement of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels. We found that the input resistance was reduced during an exposure to 8% CO(2) in ~35% LC neurons in mouse brain slices, accompanied by depolarization and higher firing activity. The neuronal responses suggest the opening of Na(+) or nonselective cationic channels instead of the closure of K(+) channels. As a major group of cationic channels, the TRP channels are expressed in the brain, some of which are activated by acidic pH. We therefore screened all representative TRP channels using the quantitative real-time PCR analysis. High levels of mRNA expression of TRPC5, TRPM2, and TRPM7 were found in the LC tissue. Of them, the TRPC5 transcript was the most abundant. The TRPC5 channel was activated by extracellular acidification when expressed in human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells. The TRPC5 currents started to be activated at pH 7.4 with pKa 6.9. The TRPC5 currents were also activated by isohydric hypercapnic and intracellular acidosis in a Ca(2+)-dependent manner. Consistently, the LC neurons were stimulated by both extra- and intracellular acidosis. The stimulatory effect of hypercapnia on LC neurons was eliminated by selective TRPC inhibitor SKF-96365 with and without the blockade of synaptic transmission. Single-cell PCR analysis indicated that TRPC5 mRNAs existed in the LC neurons. Thus these results strongly suggest that the TRP channels are likely to play a role in the CO(2) chemosensitivity of LC neurons, especially TRPC5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningren Cui
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30302, USA
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Hodges MR, Richerson GB. Medullary serotonin neurons and their roles in central respiratory chemoreception. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2010; 173:256-63. [PMID: 20226279 PMCID: PMC4554718 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2010.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2010] [Revised: 03/03/2010] [Accepted: 03/04/2010] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Much progress has been made in our understanding of central chemoreception since the seminal experiments of Fencl, Loeschcke, Mitchell and others, including identification of new brainstem regions and specific neuron types that may serve as central "sensors" of CO(2)/pH. In this review, we discuss key attributes, or minimal requirements a neuron/cell must possess to be defined as a central respiratory chemoreceptor, and summarize how well each of the various candidates fulfill these minimal criteria-especially the presence of intrinsic chemosensitivity. We then discuss some of the in vitro and in vivo evidence in support of the conclusion that medullary serotonin (5-HT) neurons are central chemoreceptors. We also provide an additional hypothesis that chemosensitive medullary 5-HT neurons are poised to integrate multiple synaptic inputs from various other sources thought to influence ventilation. Finally, we discuss open questions and future studies that may aid in continuing our advances in understanding central chemoreception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew R Hodges
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
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16
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Kuwaki T, Li A, Nattie E. State-dependent central chemoreception: a role of orexin. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2010; 173:223-9. [PMID: 20170755 PMCID: PMC2975519 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2010.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2010] [Revised: 02/08/2010] [Accepted: 02/10/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Sites involved in central chemoreception (CCR) are widely distributed in the brain. One possible explanation for the existence of multiple central chemoreceptor sites is the vigilance state-dependent hypothesis, that some sites are of greater importance in wakefulness others in sleep. We briefly summarize the evidence for a distributed network of central chemoreceptor sites and a vigilance state-dependent differentiation among them. We then discuss the role of orexin in vigilance state-dependent CCR based on our recent studies using orexin knockout mice and focal microdialysis of an orexin receptor antagonist at the retrotrapezoid nucleus and medullary raphe in rats. Orexin affects CCR in a vigilance state-dependent manner that varies with circadian time. Orexin also contributes to emotional stress- and other state-dependent related regulation of ventilation, e.g., the defense response. Diversity in central chemoreception including orexin neurons and the synaptic control of respiratory and cardiovascular output neurons appears to be necessary for animals to adapt themselves to constantly changing situations and behavioral states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoyuki Kuwaki
- Department of Physiology, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences
| | - Aihua Li
- Department of Physiology, Dartmouth Medical School
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Voituron N, Shvarev Y, Menuet C, Bevengut M, Fasano C, Vigneault E, Mestikawy SE, Hilaire G. Fluoxetine treatment abolishes the in vitro respiratory response to acidosis in neonatal mice. PLoS One 2010; 5:e13644. [PMID: 21048979 PMCID: PMC2964329 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0013644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2010] [Accepted: 09/24/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To secure pH homeostasis, the central respiratory network must permanently adapt its rhythmic motor drive to environment and behaviour. In neonates, it is commonly admitted that the retrotrapezoid/parafacial respiratory group of neurons of the ventral medulla plays the primary role in the respiratory response to acidosis, although the serotonergic system may also contribute to this response. Methodology/Principal Findings Using en bloc medullary preparations from neonatal mice, we have shown for the first time that the respiratory response to acidosis is abolished after pre-treatment with the serotonin-transporter blocker fluoxetine (25–50 µM, 20 min), a commonly used antidepressant. Using mRNA in situ hybridization and immunohistology, we have also shown the expression of the serotonin transporter mRNA and serotonin-containing neurons in the vicinity of the RTN/pFRG of neonatal mice. Conclusions These results reveal that the serotonergic system plays a pivotal role in pH homeostasis. Although obtained in vitro in neonatal mice, they suggest that drugs targeting the serotonergic system should be used with caution in infants, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Voituron
- Maturation, Plasticité, Physiologie et Pathologie de la Respiration, Unité Mixte de Recherche 6231, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique - Université de la Méditerranée - Université Paul Cézanne, Marseille, France
| | - Yuri Shvarev
- Maturation, Plasticité, Physiologie et Pathologie de la Respiration, Unité Mixte de Recherche 6231, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique - Université de la Méditerranée - Université Paul Cézanne, Marseille, France
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Division of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Clément Menuet
- Maturation, Plasticité, Physiologie et Pathologie de la Respiration, Unité Mixte de Recherche 6231, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique - Université de la Méditerranée - Université Paul Cézanne, Marseille, France
| | - Michelle Bevengut
- Maturation, Plasticité, Physiologie et Pathologie de la Respiration, Unité Mixte de Recherche 6231, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique - Université de la Méditerranée - Université Paul Cézanne, Marseille, France
| | - Caroline Fasano
- Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Hospital Research Center, McGill University, Québec, Canada
| | - Erika Vigneault
- Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Hospital Research Center, McGill University, Québec, Canada
| | - Salah El Mestikawy
- Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Hospital Research Center, McGill University, Québec, Canada
- Unité 952, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Paris, France
- Unité Mixte de Recherche 7224, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Paris, France
- Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris, France
| | - Gérard Hilaire
- Maturation, Plasticité, Physiologie et Pathologie de la Respiration, Unité Mixte de Recherche 6231, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique - Université de la Méditerranée - Université Paul Cézanne, Marseille, France
- * E-mail:
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18
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Abstract
By definition central respiratory chemoreceptors (CRCs) are cells that are sensitive to changes in brain PCO(2) or pH and contribute to the stimulation of breathing elicited by hypercapnia or metabolic acidosis. CO(2) most likely works by lowering pH. The pertinent proton receptors have not been identified and may be ion channels. CRCs are probably neurons but may also include acid-sensitive glia and vascular cells that communicate with neurons via paracrine mechanisms. Retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) neurons are the most completely characterized CRCs. Their high sensitivity to CO(2) in vivo presumably relies on their intrinsic acid sensitivity, excitatory inputs from the carotid bodies and brain regions such as raphe and hypothalamus, and facilitating influences from neighboring astrocytes. RTN neurons are necessary for the respiratory network to respond to CO(2) during the perinatal period and under anesthesia. In conscious adults, RTN neurons contribute to an unknown degree to the pH-dependent regulation of breathing rate, inspiratory, and expiratory activity. The abnormal prenatal development of RTN neurons probably contributes to the congenital central hypoventilation syndrome. Other CRCs presumably exist, but the supportive evidence is less complete. The proposed locations of these CRCs are the medullary raphe, the nucleus tractus solitarius, the ventrolateral medulla, the fastigial nucleus, and the hypothalamus. Several wake-promoting systems (serotonergic and catecholaminergic neurons, orexinergic neurons) are also putative CRCs. Their contribution to central respiratory chemoreception may be behavior dependent or vary according to the state of vigilance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrice G Guyenet
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908, USA.
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19
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Dean JB, Putnam RW. The caudal solitary complex is a site of central CO(2) chemoreception and integration of multiple systems that regulate expired CO(2). Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2010; 173:274-87. [PMID: 20670695 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2010.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2010] [Revised: 06/30/2010] [Accepted: 07/01/2010] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The solitary complex is comprised of the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS, sensory) and dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV, motor), which functions as an integrative center for neural control of multiple systems including the respiratory, cardiovascular and gastroesophageal systems. The caudal NTS-DMV is one of the several sites of central CO(2) chemoreception in the brain stem. CO(2) chemosensitive neurons are fully responsive to CO(2) at birth and their responsiveness seems to depend on pH-sensitive K(+) channels. In addition, chemosensitive neurons are highly sensitive to conditions such as hypoxia (e.g., neural plasticity) and hyperoxia (e.g., stimulation), suggesting they employ redox and nitrosative signaling mechanisms. Here we review the cellular and systems physiological evidence supporting our hypothesis that the caudal NTS-DMV is a site for integration of respiratory, cardiovascular and gastroesophageal systems that work together to eliminate CO(2) during acute and chronic respiratory acidosis to restore pH homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay B Dean
- Dept. of Molecular Pharmacology & Physiology, Hyperbaric Biomedical Research Laboratory, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
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20
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The locus coeruleus and central chemosensitivity. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2010; 173:264-73. [PMID: 20435170 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2010.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2010] [Revised: 04/23/2010] [Accepted: 04/24/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The locus coeruleus (LC) lies in the dorsal pons and supplies noradrenergic (NA) input to many regions of the brain, including respiratory control areas. The LC may provide tonic input for basal respiratory drive and is involved in central chemosensitivity since focal acidosis of the region stimulates ventilation and ablation reduces CO(2)-induced increased ventilation. The output of LC is modulated by both serotonergic and glutamatergic inputs. A large percentage of LC neurons are intrinsically activated by hypercapnia. This percentage and the magnitude of their response are highest in young neonates and decrease dramatically after postnatal day P10. The cellular bases for intrinsic chemosensitivity of LC neurons are comprised of multiple factors, primary among them being reduced extracellular and intracellular pH, which inhibit inwardly rectifying and voltage-gated K(+) channels, and activate L-type Ca(2+) channels. Activation of K(Ca) channels in LC neurons may limit their ultimate response to hypercapnia. Finally, the LC mediates central chemosensitivity and contains pH-sensitive neurons in amphibians, suggesting that the LC has a long-standing phylogenetic role in respiratory control.
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21
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Nattie E, Li A. Central chemoreception in wakefulness and sleep: evidence for a distributed network and a role for orexin. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2010; 108:1417-24. [PMID: 20133433 PMCID: PMC2867536 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.01261.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2009] [Accepted: 01/28/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This minireview examines data showing the locations of central chemoreceptor sites as identified by the presence of ventilatory responses to focal, mild acidification produced in unanesthetized animals in vivo, how the site-specific responses vary by arousal state, and what the emerging role of orexin might be in this state-dependent central chemoreceptor system. We comment on the organization of this distributed central chemoreceptor system and suggest that interactions among sites are synergistic and not additive, which is an important aspect of its normal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene Nattie
- Department of Physiology, Dartmouth Medical School, Lebanon, NH 03756-0001, USA.
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22
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Chernov MM, Erlichman JS, Leiter JC. Ionic mechanisms of central CO(2) chemosensitivity. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2010; 173:298-304. [PMID: 20380898 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2010.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2010] [Revised: 03/17/2010] [Accepted: 03/26/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A comparative analysis of chemosensory systems in invertebrates and vertebrates reveals that different animals use similar strategies when sensing CO(2) to control respiration. A variety of animals possess neurons that respond to changes in pH. These respiratory chemoreceptor neurons seem to rely largely on pH-dependent inhibition of potassium channels, but the channels do not appear to be uniquely adapted to detect pH. The 'chemosensory' potassium channels identified thus far are widely distributed, common potassium channels. The pH-sensitivity is a common feature of the channels whether the channels are in chemosensory neurons or not. Thus, the pattern of synaptic connectivity and the mix of potassium channels expressed seem to determine whether a neuron is chemosensory or not, rather than any special adaptation of a channel for pH-sensitivity. Moreover, there are often multiple pH-sensitive channels in each chemosensory neuron. These ionic mechanisms may, however, be only part of the chemosensory process, and pH-dependent modulation of synaptic activity seems to contribute to central chemosensitivity as well. In addition, the exploration of the mechanisms of pH-dependent modulation of ion channel activity in chemosensory cells is incomplete: additional mechanisms of pH modulation of channel activity may be found, and addition conductances, other than potassium channels, may participate in the chemosensory process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mykyta M Chernov
- Department of Physiology, Dartmouth Medical School, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
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23
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Erlichman JS, Leiter JC. Glia modulation of the extracellular milieu as a factor in central CO2 chemosensitivity and respiratory control. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2010; 108:1803-11. [PMID: 20110540 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.01321.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
We discuss the influence of astrocytes on respiratory function, particularly central CO2 chemosensitivity. Fluorocitrate (FC) poisons astrocytes, and studies in intact animals using FC provide strong evidence that disrupting astrocytic function can influence CO2 chemosensitivity and ventilation. Gap junctions interconnect astrocytes and contribute to K+ homeostasis in the extracellular fluid (ECF). Blocking gap junctions alters respiratory control, but proof that this is truly an astrocytic effect is lacking. Intracellular pH regulation of astrocytes has reciprocal effects on extracellular pH. Electrogenic sodium-bicarbonate transport (NBCe) is present in astrocytes. The activity of NBCe alkalinizes intracellular pH and acidifies extracellular pH when activated by depolarization (and a subset of astrocytes are depolarized by hypercapnia). Thus, to the extent that astrocytic intracellular pH regulation during hypercapnia lowers extracellular pH, astrocytes will amplify the hypercapnic stimulus and may influence central chemosensitivity. However, the data so far provide only inferential support for this hypothesis. A lactate shuttle from astrocytes to neurons seems to be active in the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) and important in setting the chemosensory stimulus in the RTN (and possibly other chemosensory nuclei). Thus astrocytic processes, so vital in controlling the constituents of the ECF in the central nervous system, may profoundly influence central CO2 chemosensitivity and respiratory control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph S Erlichman
- Department of Biology, St. Lawrence University, Canton, NY 13617-1475, USA.
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24
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Guyenet PG, Stornetta RL, Abbott SBG, Depuy SD, Fortuna MG, Kanbar R. Central CO2 chemoreception and integrated neural mechanisms of cardiovascular and respiratory control. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2010; 108:995-1002. [PMID: 20075262 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00712.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In this review, we examine why blood pressure (BP) and sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) increase during a rise in central nervous system (CNS) P(CO(2)) (central chemoreceptor stimulation). CNS acidification modifies SNA by two classes of mechanisms. The first one depends on the activation of the central respiratory controller (CRG) and causes the much-emphasized respiratory modulation of the SNA. The CRG probably modulates SNA at several brain stem or spinal locations, but the most important site of interaction seems to be the caudal ventrolateral medulla (CVLM), where unidentified components of the CRG periodically gate the baroreflex. CNS P(CO(2)) also influences sympathetic tone in a CRG-independent manner, and we propose that this process operates differently according to the level of CNS P(CO(2)). In normocapnia and indeed even below the ventilatory recruitment threshold, CNS P(CO(2)) exerts a tonic concentration-dependent excitatory effect on SNA that is plausibly mediated by specialized brain stem chemoreceptors such as the retrotrapezoid nucleus. Abnormally high levels of P(CO(2)) cause an aversive interoceptive awareness in awake individuals and trigger arousal from sleep. These alerting responses presumably activate wake-promoting and/or stress-related pathways such as the orexinergic, noradrenergic, and serotonergic neurons. These neuronal groups, which may also be directly activated by brain acidification, have brainwide projections that contribute to the CO(2)-induced rise in breathing and SNA by facilitating neuronal activity at innumerable CNS locations. In the case of SNA, these sites include the nucleus of the solitary tract, the ventrolateral medulla, and the preganglionic neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrice G Guyenet
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908-0735, USA.
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