The effects of activation and blockade of central P2X receptors on body temperature

The aim of the present work was to identify the role of ATP acting on specific P2X receptors in the central mechanisms of thermoregulation. Immunohistochemical studies demonstrated that brainstem structures involved in controlling body temperature contained large number of nerve cells bearing P2X ATP receptors. Experiments on conscious rats involving intracerebroventricular administration of an ATP analog and P2X antagonists showed that both activation and blockade of central P2X receptors produced marked changes in body temperature. Analysis of the effects of these substances provided grounds for suggesting that ATP acting on P2X receptors fulfils an important function in the mechanisms of transmitting afferent information from peripheral thermal receptors to thermoregulatory centers in the brainstem with responsibility for heat loss, while in pyrogen-induced fever ATP acting on these receptors may be involved in the activity of the endogenous antipyretic system.

Localisation of p2x2 receptor subunit immunoreactivity on nitric oxide synthase expressing neurones in the brain stem and hypothalamus of the rat: a fluorescence immunohistochemical study

A large body of evidence suggests that nitric oxide (NO) and ATP act as neurotransmitters in the regulatory mechanisms concerning several autonomic functions at the level of both the hypothalamus and the brain stem. In the present study, we investigated whether neuronal NO synthase containing neurones also express P2X(2) receptor subunit of the ATP-gated ion channel via double-labelling fluorescence immunohistochemistry. Our data demonstrate that a high percentage of neuronal NO synthase-immunoreactive neurones are also P2X(2)-immunoreactive in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (98%) and supraoptic nucleus of the hypothalamus (92%). Significant numbers of neuronal NO synthase-immunoreactive neurones are also P2X(2)-immunoreactive in the subpostremal (48%) and commissural (65%) subdivisions of the nucleus tractus solitarius. In the caudal ventrolateral medulla and raphe obscurus, 96% and 89%, respectively, of neuronal NO synthase containing neurones also express P2X(2) receptor subunit. In contrast to the supraoptic nucleus, there was a lower percentage of co-localisation between NO synthase and P2X(2) receptor subunit in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus. In summary, this study demonstrates for the first time that there is a widespread co-localisation of neuronal NO synthase and P2X(2) receptor subunit in the hypothalamus and brain stem of the rat. Further studies are required to elucidate whether NO and ATP functionally interact within the hypothalamus and the brain stem.

A5 region modulation of the cardiorespiratory responses evoked from parabrachial cell bodies in the anaesthetised rat

We have examined the importance of the A5 region modulating cardiorespiratory responses evoked from the parabrachial complex (PB) in spontaneously breathing rats. Cardiorespiratory changes were analyzed in response to electrical stimulation and glutamate microinjections into the PB (10-20 nl, 1-2 nmol) before and after ipsilateral microinjection of muscimol (50 nl, 0.25 nmol) or lidocaine (50 nl, 0.5 nmol) within the A5 region. Stimulation of medial parabrachial and Kölliker-Fuse nuclei (mPB-KF) evoked a decrease in respiratory rate (P<0.001) with a rise in blood pressure (P<0.001) and heart rate (P<0.05). After muscimol or lidocaine microinjections within the A5 region, the pressor and heart rate responses to mPB-KF stimulation were reduced (P<0.05, both cases). Muscimol within the A5 region altered the respiratory response to glutamate stimulation of mPB-KF, evoking an increase in respiratory rate (P<0.05). Lidocaine abolished the respiratory response to mPB-KF stimulation. Stimulation of the lateral parabrachial nuclei (lPB) caused an increase in respiratory rate (P<0.001) with a rise in blood pressure (P<0.001) and heart rate (P<0.05). Muscimol or lidocaine microinjections within A5 region decreased heart rate (P<0.05) and pressor responses (P<0.05) evoked from lPB. The increase of respiratory rate persisted unchanged. To confirm functional interactions between A5 and PB, extracellular recordings of putative A5 neurones were obtained during PB stimulation. Eighty-three A5 cells were recorded, 35 were activated from the mPB-KF (42%). The results indicate that neurones of the A5 region participate in the cardiorespiratory response evoked from the different regions of the PB complex. The possible mechanisms involved in these interactions are discussed.

[Effect of activation and blockade of central P2X receptors on body temperature]

The aim of the present study was to elucidate the role of extracellular ATP acting on specific P2X receptors in the central mechanisms of thermoregulation. Using immunohistochemistry methods, it was found that the brainstem structures involved in the body temperature regulation contain a large number of nerve cells which possess P2X receptors for ATP. Experiments with intracerebroventricular application of a stable ATP analogue and P2X receptor antagonists to conscious rats showed that both activation and blockade of central P2X receptors resulted in marked changes in body temperature. Analysis of the effects of these agents suggests that ATP by acting on P2X receptors performs an important function in the mechanisms of transmission of afferent information coming from peripheral thermoreceptors to the brainstem thermoregulatory centres responsible for heat loss, and during pyrogen-induced fever can be involved in the action of the endogenous antipyretic system.

Laryngeal effects of stimulation of rostral and ventral pons in the anaesthetized rat

In order to study the importance of two pontine regions modulating laryngeal resistance, electrical current or microinjections of glutamate (10-30 nl, 1-3 nmol) were made into the pontine parabrachial complex and the A5 region in spontaneously breathing anaesthetized rats. Two distinct patterns of laryngeal and respiratory responses were elicited. An increase of subglottal pressure was accompanied with an expiratory facilitatory response consisted of a decrease in both respiratory rate and phrenic nerve activity. A decrease of subglottal pressure was accompanied with an inspiratory facilitatory response consisted of an increase in both respiratory rate and phrenic nerve activity. The modification of laryngeal calibre occurred during both respiratory phases in most cases. The concomitant cardiovascular changes of these responses were also analyzed. Controls using guanethidine to block autonomic responses which might interact with respiratory control were also made. Histological analysis of stimulation sites showed a topographical organization of these responses: laryngeal constriction was evoked from Kölliker-Fuse, medial parabrachial nuclei and A5 region, whilst the laryngeal dilation was evoked from the lateral parabrachial nucleus.

Evidence for the involvement of purinergic signalling in the control of respiration

The ventrolateral medulla has a critical role in the generation and patterning of respiration via an extensive network of respiratory neurones. We have investigated the effects of activating purinergic P2 receptors within the ventrolateral medulla of the anaesthetised rat on the overall pattern of respiratory activity. In addition, using immunohistochemical techniques, we have identified the subtypes of P2X receptors in the ventrolateral medulla. Unilateral microinjection of ATP into the ventrolateral medulla reduced in a dose-dependent manner, or abolished, resting phrenic nerve discharge recorded as an indication of central inspiratory drive. ATP also elicited increases in blood pressure and variable changes in heart rate. These effects were mimicked by microinjection of the P2X receptor agonist alpha,beta-methylene ATP into the ventrolateral medulla. Whilst microinjection of suramin, a P2 receptor antagonist, had no effect on resting cardiorespiratory variables it blocked the respiratory and cardiovascular effects of ATP microinjected into the ventrolateral medulla. Immunohistochemical staining using IgG antibodies showed that P2X1, P2X2, P2X5 and P2X6, but not P2X3, P2X4 or receptor subunits were localised in the rostral ventrolateral medulla.Our results indicate that several P2X receptor subtypes are localised within areas of the ventrolateral medulla that are important for cardiorespiratory control (including the pre-Bötzinger and Bötzinger complexes), and that activation of these receptors can have profound effects on both the cardiovascular and the respiratory networks. Our pharmacological data suggest that different P2X subunits in this region may co-assemble to form hetero-oligomeric assemblies as well as homomultimers within this region.

Chemosensitivity of medullary inspiratory neurones: a role for GABA(A) receptors?

This study tested the hypothesis that during hypercapnia partial removal of a tonic GABA-mediated inhibition contributes to the increase in activity of the ventrolateral medulla (VLM) inspiratory neurones. Extracellular recordings were taken from 22 inspiratory neurones in the VLM of rats anaesthetised with pentobarbitone and artificially ventilated. It was found that during hypercapnia, changes in the discharge pattern (i.e. an increase in the discharge frequency during the neurone's normally active phase) and firing frequency of the VLM inspiratory neurones were similar to those evoked by GABA(A) receptor antagonist bicuculline methiodide (BMI, 10 mM, 20 nA), applied ionophoretically in conditions of normocapnia. During hypercapnia BMI (20 nA) failed to evoke a further increase in firing of these neurones. This suggests that CO2-evoked activation of VLM inspiratory neurones may involve a withdrawal in part of a tonic GABA(A) receptor-mediated inhibition. This disinhibition may play a role in the hypercapnia-induced increase in ventilatory activity.

Studying rhythmogenesis of breathing: comparison of in vivo and in vitro models

In all mammalian species, breathing is controlled by a neuronal network within the lower brainstem. A component known as the ventral respiratory group produces rhythmic activity, which is transmitted to spinal motoneurons to produce a periodic contraction of respiratory muscles. A dispute about the mechanisms of 'normal' respiratory rhythm generation arose from the differences between experimental preparations that have been used to dissect the process. It is, therefore, essential to compare the various experimental approaches and to discuss the differences between experimental data. We conclude that the various preparations all have great value, but that they define different operational conditions of the network, including maturation of neurons and synaptic processes. We have taken note of these in formulating a 'maturational network-burster model' for rhythm generation that includes most features of the existing models of respiratory rhythm generation.

A functional study of uncrossed and crossed pulmonary afferent fibres in the cervical vagus nerves of the cat

The functional distribution of uncrossed and crossed pulmonary afferent fibres in the cervical vagus nerves has been studied in the anaesthetized cat using acute and chronic unilateral pneumonectomized preparations. The heart and lungs were sympathectomized routinely. The vagal afferent pathways of three pulmonary reflexes were investigated: the Hering-Breuer respiratory reflex, the lung inflation cardio-accelerator reflex, and the pulmonary chemoreflex. Inflation of the remaining lung caused temporary inhibition of inspiration. It also resulted in acceleration of the heart, but only when the background cardiac vagal tone was augmented. These respiratory and cardiac responses were abolished in most animals by ipsilateral cervical vagotomy; however, in some, a small response persisted and this was abolished by contralateral vagotomy. Stimulation of pulmonary C-fibre endings with right atrial injections of phenylbiguanide caused a reduction in respiration, bradycardia and systemic hypotension, responses which occurred with a latency of 2.9 +/- 0.15 s. They were mostly abolished by ipsilateral cervical vagotomy, but reduced responses persisted in a few animals. The residual responses were abolished by contralateral cervical vagotomy and by selective denervation of the lung. These results indicate that most afferent fibres subserving the three pulmonary reflexes studied run in the ipsilateral cervical vagus, representing the uncrossed pathway. Some afferent fibres, however, cross to the contralateral cervical vagus. Degenerative changes in cells of the contralateral nodose ganglion in chronic unilateral pneumonectomized animals support these findings.

Effect on urinary bladder function and arterial blood pressure of the activation of putative purine receptors in brainstem areas

The effect on bladder function and arterial blood pressure of adenosine-5'-triphosphate (ATP) and its synthetic analogue, alpha,beta-methylene ATP (alpha,beta-meATP) applied by microinjection to brainstem areas was assessed in the anaesthetised, paralysed and artificially ventilated female rat. Recordings of bladder pressure, changes in the pelvic nerve activity, arterial blood pressure and heart rate were evaluated. The purinergic drugs were microinjected into two brainstem areas the periaqueductal grey matter (PAG) and the area of the Barrington nucleus/locus coeruleus (LC) - only after electrical stimulation (50 Hz, 1 ms, 30-50 microA; n(PAG) = 17; n(LC) = 18) and the microinjection of glutamate (2 mM, pH 7.4+/-0.1; n(PAG) = 16; n(LC) = 16) had shown increases of bladder pressure and/or rate of bladder contractions and/or pelvic nerve activity at specific sites. Electrical and glutamate activation of PAG evoked an increase of arterial blood pressure. Microinjections of ATP (20 mM, pH 7.4+/-0.1; n(PAG) = 11; n(LC) = 11) and alpha,beta-meATP (2 mM, pH 7.4+/-0.1; n(PAG) = 10; n(LC) = 9) both evoked consistent increases of bladder pressure and/or pelvic nerve activity. Stimulation with ATP elicited a biphasic change of arterial blood pressure characterised by an increase followed by a decrease which was accompanied by a rise of heart rate. Microinjection of alpha,beta-meATP into PAG did not elicit a consistent response: a decrease of arterial blood pressure was evoked in five rats, while in two other rats an increase occurred. Electrical stimulation and glutamate activation of Barrington's nucleus/LC evoked an increase of arterial blood pressure, but a decrease was observed after microinjection of both ATP and alpha,beta-meATP. At some sites (n = 8) the effect of alpha,beta-meATP after a pre-injection at the same site of the P2 purino receptor antagonist, suramin (20 mM, pH 7.4+/-0.1) was smaller than the control. At three sites within PAG and two within LC located more medially to sites where an excitatory response had been observed, electrical stimulation evoked a small decrease or no change in bladder pressure. Following the stimulus, a rise in bladder pressure was preceded by an increase of pelvic nerve activity. A similar effect of glutamate was observed in one case. These data suggest that activation of P2 purine receptors in both PAG and Barrington's nucleus/LC is implicated in the neuronal mechanisms that generate patterns of activity in the parasympathetic innervation of the bladder and that purines also act at this level to modify sympathetic outflow to the cardiovascular system.

Respiratory effects of stimulation of cell bodies of the A5 region in the anaesthetised rat

To assess the importance of the pontine A5 region in modulating respiratory activity, electric current or microinjections of glutamate (10-30 nl, 1-3 nmol) were used to stimulate discrete zones within this region in the spontaneously breathing, anaesthetised rat. These stimuli evoked an expiratory facilitatory response, consisting of a decrease in respiratory rate (P < 0.01 electrical, P < 0.001 chemical) due to an increase of expiratory time (P < 0.01 in both cases) as measured from recordings of phrenic nerve activity. No changes were observed in inspiratory time. To avoid changes in PCO2, which could modulate the respiratory response, stimulation was also made during artificial ventilation. Under these conditions the expiratory facilitatory response elicited by glutamate was still present (P < 0.05), although its duration was reduced (P < 0.05), as was the magnitude of the phrenic burst (P < 0.05). At all the sites at which electrical stimulation and glutamate injection had evoked a respiratory response, electrical stimulation evoked a concomitant increase in both blood pressure and heart rate. Glutamate injection evoked a pressor response in 21 out of 30 animals. In eight animals the rise in blood pressure was followed by a fall in blood pressure and in one animal, a depressor response was observed. In all cases glutamate evoked an increase in heart rate. The expiratory facilitatory response was not evoked as a consequence of the increase of blood pressure since it was still present after the administration of guanethidine, which abolished the blood pressure changes. As glutamate is believed to excite perikarya rather than axons of passage these data indicate that expiratory facilitatory responses and the accompanying cardiovascular changes are the consequence of activating neurones located within the A5 region. The possible interactions between the A5 region and the medullary respiratory complex in eliciting these changes are discussed.

Interaction of the Bezold-Jarisch reflex with the urinary bladder function

OBJECTIVES

The Bezold-Jarisch reflex involves a marked increase in vagal (parasympathetic) efferent discharge to the heart. During micturition, there is a marked increase in parasympathetic activity to the bladder (pelvic nerve activity) and this coincides with periods of phasic bladder contractions. In recent studies, we have shown that regions of the CNS that modulate pelvic nerve activity also affect cardiovascular variables. Recent anatomical studies have shown neuronal connections between the areas of the CNS that modulate both reflexes. Accordingly, in the present study we investigate if during the Bezold-Jarisch reflex there are simultaneous changes in pelvic nerve activity.

METHODS

Experiments were performed in Wistar female rats, anaesthetised with alpha-chloradose i.p. (80 micrograms/Kg) supplemented i.v. as required. Arterial blood pressure, ECG heart rate, urinary bladder pressure and pelvic nerve activity were recorded.

RESULTS

Stimulation of cardiac chemosensitive nerve endings with veratridine evoked a decrease in arterial blood pressure from 88.6 +/- 1.72 to 66.1 +/- 2.50 mmHg (n = 30; p < 0.0001) and of heart rate from 420.3 +/- 5.56 to 248.8 +/- 17.58 bpm (n = 13; p < 0.0001) There were simultaneous changes of pelvic nerve activity that preceded an increase in urinary bladder pressure from 10.2 +/- 0.28 to 26.3 +/- 1.52 cmH2O (n = 30; p < 0.0001) and bladder contractions. We believe that the reflex changes resulted from activation of cardiac chemosensory nerve endings, as equivalent injections of warm saline into the left ventricle produced no changes in either cardiovascular variables or pelvic nerve activity.

CONCLUSIONS

These observations suggest a significant role for cardiac afferents in modulating bladder contractions. The integration and functional significance of these inputs remain to be elucidated. The clinical importance of this physiological result may contribute to a better understanding of the mechanism of some semiologic findings, notably the association of urgency to micturate with myocardial ischemia and myocardial infarction.

Somatosympathetic reflex in a working heart-brainstem preparation of the rat

The purpose of the present study was to examine the cardiorespiratory responses (CR) evoked by a somatosympathetic reflex (SSR) in the working heart-brainstem preparation (WHBP). Sprague-Dawley rats (75-100 g) were anesthetized with halothane, bisected sub-diaphramatically and decerebrated pre-collicularly (n = 15). The preparation was transferred to a recording chamber and perfused via the thoracic aorta with Ringer's solution containing an oncotic agent (Ficoll, 1.25%). SSR was activated by electrical stimulation (5 s) of the brachial nerve (0.5-40 Hz, 1-20 V, 0.1 ms) or the forelimb (0.5-40 Hz, 5-60 V, 2 ms). Stimulation at 40 Hz significantly increased heart rate (HR, 366 +/- 10 to 374 +/- 9 beats/min), systemic perfusion pressure (PP, 83 +/- 5 to 89 +/- 6 mmHg) and phrenic nerve discharge (PND, 0.4 +/- 0.1 to 1.4 +/- 0.3 Hz). Ganglionic blockade with hexamethonium (300 microM) eliminated the tachycardia and pressor response but did not alter the tachypnea to forelimb stimulation (n = 3). Transection of the brachial nerve plexus abolished the increase in PP and PND (n = 4). This indicates that a neural reflex mediated these responses. Spinal transection (C1-C2) completely abolished all responses indicating that they were mediated via a supraspinal pathway (n = 2). Based upon these findings, we conclude that activation of somatosensory afferent fibers in the WHBP evokes a programmed pattern of autonomic responses altering the activity-state of both the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. The WHBP provides a unique opportunity to investigate the medullary circuits and neuronal mechanisms that may be involved in coupling cardiorespiratory and somatomotor activity during locomotion/exercise.

A role for adenosine in modulating cardio-respiratory responses: a mini-review

Evidence is provided that purine nucleotides play a major role in modulating cardio-respiratory control through actions at specific sites in the central nervous system (CNS). The accumulation of adenosine in the extracellular space of the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) on hypothalamic defence area stimulation is described, and is shown to result from the extracellular breakdown of neurally released adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The actions of adenosine in modulating synaptic actions in the NTS are discussed in relation to the potential presynaptic action of adenosine in modulating transmitter release. Actions of adenosine and ATP at other sites in the medulla concerned with cardio-respiratory control are discussed. The inter-relationships between ATP and adenosine are mentioned.

Dorsal column nuclei neurons recorded in a brain stem-spinal cord preparation: characteristics and their responses to dorsal root stimulation

Recordings were obtained from dorsal column nucleus (DCN) neurons in a neonatal rat brain stem-spinal cord preparation to study their basic electrophysiological properties and responses to stimulation of a dorsal root. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings were made from 21 neurons that responded to dorsal root stimulation with a fast excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP). These neurons were located lateral to, but at the level of, the area postrema at depths of 100-268 microm below the dorsal surface of the brain. The neurons could be divided into groups according to the shape of their action potentials or voltage responses to hyperpolarizing current steps; however, the response profiles of the groups of neurons to dorsal root stimulation were not significantly different and all neurons were considered together. Dorsal root stimulation elicited excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) in all neurons with a very low variability in onset latency and an ability to follow 100-Hz stimulation, indicating that they were mediated by activation of a monosynaptic pathway. The peak amplitude of the EPSP increased with membrane hyperpolarization, and applications of the non-NMDA receptor antagonists 6-nitro-7-sulfamoylbenzo[f]quinoxaline-2, 3-dione (NBQX) and 6,7-dinitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (DNQX) decreased the amplitude of the EPSP to 14.2% of the control response (n = 6). The descending phase of the EPSP decreased with membrane hyperpolarization and was reduced by the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist AP-5 (n = 2). The EPSPs were also reduced in amplitude by applications of the gamma-aminobutyric acid-B (GABA(B)) receptor agonist baclofen, which had no effect on membrane potential or input resistance. These results show that fast EPSPs in DCN neurons elicited by dorsal root stimulation are mediated by an excitatory amino acid acting at both non-NMDA and, to a lesser extent, NMDA receptors. In addition, GABA acting at presynaptic GABA(B) receptors can inhibit these responses.

Inhibition of the carotid baroreflex by urinary bladder distension

OBJECTIVE

The cardiovascular responses to urinary bladder distension include a rise in arterial blood pressure, an increase in vascular resistance and heart rate, which are abolished by sectioning the pelvic and hypogastric nerves. There are indications in the literature that inputs from the arterial baroreceptors and urinary bladder converge at the same autonomic efferent pathways. Recent data provided evidence of a partial inhibitory action of the carotid baroreflex on the reflex cardiovascular responses evoked by bladder distension. In this study, we investigate the influence of urinary bladder distention upon cardiovascular responses elicited by carotid baroreceptor stimulation.

METHODS

Wistar Rats were anaesthetised with alpha-choloralose (80 mg/kg, i.p.) supplemented as necessary. The carotid sinus was stimulated randomly with different volumes of saline (0.5-2.0 ml). The ureters were ligated and the bladder was cannulated. Arterial blood pressure (BP), ECG, heart rate (HR), and bladder pressure (BLP) were monitored. Baroreceptor stimulation was undertaken on two levels of BLP (2 and 20 cmH2O). The cardiovascular response to baroreceptor activation was assessed as the maximal variation of BP, HR and R-R interval for different volumes of saline injected.

RESULTS

Our results showed that in all tests baroreceptor stimulation evoked a decrease in BP and HR but the magnitude of these responses was significantly different for each volume of saline and for two levels of BLP. The effectiveness and reproducibility of responses to these stimuli were confirmed by injecting a fixed volume of saline into the carotid sinus of two animals at two levels of BLP. In five animals, the variation in BP increased as the magnitude of the stimulus to the baroreceptor increased. However, the response was reduced with increased BLP. The fitted regression line was calculated for all the tests (n = 82; s = 8.2; Yint = 0.62 for BLP = 2 cmH2O; s = 9.5; Yint = 2.9; r = 0.69 for BLP = 20 cmH2O). Similar effects were observed and similar patterns of regression lines were obtained with regard to HR changes (n = 48; s = 13.3; Yint = 2.7; r = 0.82 for BLP = 2 cmH2O; s = 15.8; Yint = 0.89; r = 0.76 for BLP = 20 cmH2O) and interval changes (n = 48; s = 7.1; Yint = 4.3; r = 0.78 for BLP = 2 cmH2O; s = 8.5; Yint = 0.2; r = 0.76 for BLP = 20 cm H2O).

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that the cardiovascular responses evoked by carotid baroreceptor stimulation are significantly different when the urinary bladder is empty or full with the response diminishing as the urinary bladder is distended.

In vivo modulation of nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) neurones by activation of 5-hydroxytryptamine(2) receptors in rats

In in vivo experiments, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and (+/-)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine HCl (DOI), a 5-HT(2) receptor agonist, were applied by ionophoresis to rat nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) neurones identified by their vagal and cardiopulmonary afferent inputs to test whether the response of NTS cells to 5-HT(2) receptor activation was related to whether they received mono- or polysynaptic vagal inputs and their presumed function as defined by their afferent input. Cells were classified on the basis of the variability of the latency of the vagal-evoked spikes: this varied by less than 3 ms for Group 1, from 3 to 5 ms for Group 2, and more than 5 ms for Group 3. Both 5-HT and DOI inhibited most Group 1 cells (16/18) and inactive (without ongoing activity) cells (8/13) in Group 2. Cells inhibited by DOI were also inhibited by cardiopulmonary afferent stimulation, evoked by atrial phenylbiguanide administration. By contrast, application of 5-HT and DOI excited the majority of Group 3 cells (14/19) and Group 2 with ongoing activity (7/9). Cells excited by DOI were also activated by cardiopulmonary stimulation. Both actions of DOI were reversed by application of ketanserin (n=15). In conclusion, these data demonstrate that activation of 5-HT(2) receptors in the NTS produces different effects dependent on whether the neurones received mono- or polysynaptic vagal input and their response to cardiopulmonary afferent stimulation.

Sensing arterial CO(2) levels: a role for medullary P2X receptors

ATP has been shown to act as an excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. In this review, evidence is presented to indicate that when ATP is micro-injected into the ventrolateral medulla (VLM) of the rat, changes in respiratory activity are elicited. These effects, and accompanying changes in heart rate and blood pressure are mediated by P2X purinoreceptors. Immunocytochemistry indicates a prevalence of P2X(2) and P2X(6) purinoreceptors in this region of the medulla. The P2 purinoceptor antagonists, suramin and PPADS blunt the respiratory responses to changes in arterial CO(2) levels when micro-injected into the VLM. This effect is shown electrophysiologically to be mediated by purinoreceptors located primarily on respiratory neurones of the VLM including the Bötzinger complex. As the effects of agonist activation of P2X(2) purinoceptors expressed in HEK293 cells and Xenopus oocytes are potentiated by lowering pH, these data imply that the central respiratory response to CO(2) depends in part on the pH sensitivity of purinoreceptors located on inspiratory neurones. The implications for respiratory activity and control are discussed.

Coexpression of rat P2X2 and P2X6 subunits in Xenopus oocytes

Transcripts for P2X(2) and P2X(6) subunits are present in rat CNS and frequently colocalize in the same brainstem nuclei. When rat P2X(2) (rP2X(2)) and rat P2X(6) (rP2X(6)) receptors were expressed individually in Xenopus oocytes and studied under voltage-clamp conditions, only homomeric rP2X(2) receptors were fully functional and gave rise to large inward currents (2-3 microA) to extracellular ATP. Coexpression of rP2X(2) and rP2X(6) subunits in Xenopus oocytes resulted in a heteromeric rP2X(2/6) receptor, which showed a significantly different phenotype from the wild-type rP2X(2) receptor. Differences included reduction in agonist potencies and, in some cases (e.g., Ap(4)A), significant loss of agonist activity. ATP-evoked inward currents were biphasic at the heteromeric rP2X(2/6) receptor, particularly when Zn(2+) ions were present or extracellular pH was lowered. The pH range was narrower for H(+) enhancement of ATP responses at the heteromeric rP2X(2/6) receptor. Also, H(+) ions inhibited ATP responses at low pH levels (<pH 6.3). The pH-dependent blocking activity of suramin was changed at this heteromeric receptor, although the potentiating effect of Zn(2+) on ATP responses was unchanged. Thus, the rP2X(2/6) receptor is a functionally modified P2X(2)-like receptor with a distinct pattern of pH modulation of ATP activation and suramin blockade. Although homomeric P2X(6) receptors function poorly, the P2X(6) subunit can contribute to functional heteromeric P2X channels and may influence the phenotype of native P2X receptors in those cells in which it is expressed.

Inhibition of rat nucleus tractus solitarius neurones by activation of 5-HT2C receptors

In vivo, nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) neurones receiving monosynaptic vagal input and inactive intermediate neurones were inhibited by both DOI and a selective 5-HT2C receptor agonist, MK-212. Cells receiving a more polysynaptic input were excited by DOI and although MK-212 also excited a few of these cells, the majority of cells in these groups were unaffected by MK-212. The inhibitory, but not the excitatory actions of both MK-212 and DOI were prevented by a selective 5-HT2C receptor antagonist, RS-102221. In contrast, most dorsal vagal preganglionic neurones were unaffected by application of either DOI or MK-212, the few remaining cells being excited by both agonists. These data demonstrate that DOI-evoked inhibition of NTS cells activated by vagal afferent input and DOI-evoked excitation of vagal preganglionic neurones is mediated by 5-HT2C receptors.

P2X purinoceptor-mediated excitation of trigeminal lingual nerve terminals in an in vitro intra-arterially perfused rat tongue preparation

A novel in vitro intra-arterially perfused adult rat tongue-nerve preparation was used to explore the possible actions of P2X purinoceptor agonists (ATP and alpha,beta-methylene ATP (alpha, beta-meATP)) on sensory nerve terminals innervating the rat tongue. We made whole-nerve recordings of the trigeminal branch of the lingual nerve (LN), which conducts general sensory information (pain, temperature, touch, etc.), and the chorda tympani (CT), which conducts taste information. Changes in LN and CT activity following intra-arterial application of P2X agonists were compared. In seven preparations, bolus close-arterial injection of ATP (30-3000 microM, 0.1 ml) or alpha,beta-meATP (10-300 microM, 0.1 ml) induced a rapid (< 1 s after injection), dose-related increase in LN activity that decayed within a few seconds. The minimal concentration of ATP (100 microM) required to elicit a response was about 10-fold higher than that of alpha,beta-meATP (10 microM). Bolus injection of ATP or alpha,beta-meATP induced a moderate decrease in firing frequency in three of seven CT preparations. LN responses to P2X agonists showed signs of rapid desensitisation with the peak frequency of discharge being smaller when the agonists were applied at short intervals. Suramin (200 microM) or PPADS (200 microM) applied by intra-arterial perfusion each antagonised the rapid increase in LN activity following application of alpha,beta-meATP (100 microM). Capsaicin (10 microM, 0.1 ml, n = 5 preparations) was injected intra-arterially to desensitise nociceptive fibres. This was found to block (n = 2) or greatly reduce (n = 3) the excitatory effects of alpha,beta-meATP (100 microM, 0.1 ml) on LN activity, implying that only capsaicin-sensitive nociceptive fibres in LN were responsive to P2X agonists. In contrast to the consistent excitatory responses in LN activity following fast application of P2X agonists as bolus, a variable and moderate change in discharge rate of LN and no change in CT activity (n = 5) was observed after applying ATP (100-300 microM, n = 21) or alpha,beta-meATP (100-300 microM, n = 14) by intra-arterial perfusion. The variable responses in LN activity to slow perfusion in contrast to close-arterial bolus injection are consistent with activation of the rapidly desensitising P2X3 receptors. In summary, ATP and alpha,beta-meATP preferentially activate general sensory afferent fibres (LN) but not taste fibres (CT). We suggest that the increase in whole-nerve activity of LN following application of P2X agonists represents activation of nociceptive fibres which possess P2X3 receptors. Our data indicate that ATP and P2X3 receptors may play a role in nociception, rather than taste sensation in the tongue.

Localization and action of adenosine A2a receptors in regions of the brainstem important in cardiovascular control

In vitro autoradiography and central microinjections of a P1 adenosine A2a receptor antagonist have been employed to investigate a possible role for centrally located adenosine A2a receptors in modulation of the baroreceptor reflex. In vitro autoradiography using [125I]4-(2-[7-amino-2-[2-furyl][3,2,4]triazolol[2,3-a][1,3,5]tr iazin-5-yl-amino]ethyl)phenol ([125I]ZM241385), the high-affinity adenosine A2a receptor antagonist, revealed a heterogeneous distribution of adenosine A2a binding sites within the lower brainstem of the rat. Image analysis showed high levels of binding in rostral regions of both the nucleus tractus solitarius and the ventrolateral medulla. Intermediate levels of binding were observed in the commissural nucleus tractus solitarius and the dorsal vagal motor nucleus, with low levels of binding in caudal regions of the nucleus tractus solitarius and the ventrolateral medulla, and the hypoglossal nucleus. Unilateral microinjections of unlabelled ZM241385 into the nucleus tractus solitarius had no effect on baseline levels of arterial pressure, heart rate and phrenic nerve activity recorded in anaesthetized, artificially ventilated rats. However, microinjections of ZM241385 reduced the bradycardia evoked by stimulation of the ipsilateral aortic nerve. In contrast, ZM241385 had no effect on the depressor response or the reduction in phrenic nerve activity evoked by aortic nerve stimulation. Our results indicate that adenosine A2a binding sites are located in a number of brainstem regions involved in autonomic function, consistent with the idea that adenosine acts as a neuromodulator of a variety of cardiorespiratory reflexes. Specifically, the data support the hypothesis that adenosine A2a receptors located within the nucleus tractus solitarius are activated during baroreceptor stimulation and have an important modulatory role in the pattern of cardiovascular changes associated with this reflex.

ATP as a mediator of mammalian central CO2 chemoreception

1. A role for P2 purinoceptors in the chemosensory response of respiratory neurones localised in the ventrolateral medulla to changes in arterial CO2 levels was investigated in the anaesthetised rat. Extracellular recordings were made from different classes of respiratory neurone and the effects of P2 receptor blockade on CO2-evoked changes in activity investigated. 2. Increasing inspired CO2 excited 85 % of inspiratory neurones in the pre-Botzinger complex. In all cases, CO2-evoked excitation was blocked by ionophoretic application of the P2 receptor antagonists suramin (0.02 M) and pyridoxal-phosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulphonic acid (PPADS; 100 microM), but not the adenosine receptor antagonist 8-phenyltheophylline (8-PT; 100 microM). Suramin and PPADS often reduced ongoing activity, and blocked the excitatory effects of ATP. Inspiratory neurones were also excited by the P2X receptor agonist alphabeta-methyleneATP, suggesting a specific role for P2X receptors. 3. Sixty-six per cent of pre-inspiratory neurones were also excited by CO2. This effect was reduced or abolished by prior application of P2 receptor antagonists. Although post-inspiratory and expiratory neurones were excited by increasing levels of CO2, and also by ionophoretically applied ATP, the CO2-evoked effects were unaffected by P2 receptor blockade. 4. We suggest that ATP, possibly acting via P2X purinoceptors localised within the ventral respiratory group, is involved in central chemoreception. Specifically, these distinctive CO2-P2X-mediated actions were observed only in inspiratory neurones (incrementing inspiratory neurones and pre-inspiratory neurones), which appear to have purinoceptors with pH sensitivity that can account for the actions of CO2 in modifying ventilatory activity.

Characterization of P2 receptors modulating neural activity in rat rostral ventrolateral medulla

This study investigated the effects of ATP, and related compounds, on the activity of neurons within the rostral ventrolateral medulla, an area of fundamental importance in reflex control of the cardiovascular system. Extracellular recordings were made from single neurons in anaesthetized, paralysed and artificially ventilated rats. Ionophoretic application of alpha,beta-methylene-ATP, adenosine 5'-O-(2-thiodiphosphate), UTP, 2-methylthio-ATP and ATP altered the ongoing activity in the majority of neurons (>74% of neurons), generally causing increases in the firing rate. Nine of 11 cells with presumed spinal projection were excited by ATP and/or the P2X-selective agonist alpha,beta-methylene-ATP. Desensitization of the excitatory responses to alpha,beta-methylene-ATP was observed in four of 20 rostral ventrolateral medulla neurons. For the remainder of the rostral ventrolateral medulla neurons, the increase in firing rate evoked by alpha,beta-methylene-ATP, and by the other purine compounds tested, did not undergo desensitization. Suramin, a P2 receptor antagonist, blocked excitatory responses to adenosine 5'-O-(2-thiodiphosphate) or alpha,beta-methylene-ATP in five of 16 neurons. These results indicate that ATP can modulate the activity of neurons in the rostral ventrolateral medulla via actions at P2 purine receptors. The data suggest that both P2X and P2Y receptors are involved, and that the functional expression of these receptors within the rostral ventrolateral medulla is not uniform.

Vagal modulation of responses elicited by stimulation of the aortic depressor nerve in neurons of the rostral ventrolateral medulla oblongata in the rat

Stimulation of cervical vagal afferents inhibits central sympathetic outflows in part by inhibiting the ongoing activity of putative baroreceptive neurons in the rostral ventrolateral medulla oblongata. The aim of the present study was to examine the electrophysiological characteristics of vagal responses and their interactions with responses elicited by stimulation of the aortic nerve in neurons there. The study focused on the role of the long-lasting, late-onset vagal inhibition, which is likely to play an important role in the tonic inhibitory effects of vagal afferent stimulation. In vivo intracellular recordings were obtained from 33 neurons that received convergent inputs from aortic and vagal afferents. Sixty-four percent of these neurons exhibited a late inhibition following electrical stimulation of myelinated vagal afferents (mean onset latency of 100+/-5 ms). The average duration of late inhibition (294+/-19 ms) exceeded the duration of the cardiac cycle. As a consequence of this, sustained vagal stimulation diminished the effect of rhythmic baroreceptor inputs in neurons that exhibited late vagal inhibition. Simultaneous activation of aortic and vagal afferents significantly increased the magnitude of late inhibition, even in those neurons where stimulation of the aortic nerve alone did not elicit a response (n = 15). This suggested that the convergence between vagal and aortic afferent inputs occurred in inhibitory inteneurons antecedent to the recorded rostral ventrolateral medulla oblongata neurons. Focal stimulation of the caudal part of the nucleus of the solitary tract also elicited a late-onset inhibition in 73% of the neurons that responded to stimulation of the aortic nerve. This inhibition appeared to be similar to the late vagal inhibition, except for its shorter average onset latency (64+/-7 ms). Based on this observation, it is proposed that inhibitory inteneurons that mediate late inhibition to rostral ventrolateral medulla oblongata neurons may lie within the caudal part of the nucleus of the solitary tract. The present study established that activation of myelinated vagal afferents exerts a complex modulation over the ongoing and evoked activity of neurons that respond to stimulation of the aortic nerve. The complex interaction that occurs between aortic and vagal inputs in neurons of the rostral ventrolateral medulla may be implicated in long-term modulation of sympathetic outflows in response to changes in the activation of visceral receptors supplied by vagus afferents. The modulation elicited by late vagal inhibition may help to adjust cardiovascular outflows according to requirements set by the thoraco-abdominal visceral environment.

Late vagal inhibition in neurons of the ventrolateral medulla oblongata in the rat

Stimulation of cervical vagal afferents elicits long-lasting inhibitory effects in a variety of neuronal populations, although little is known concerning the cellular mechanisms that are involved in these effects. In the present study, the electrophysiological characteristics of responses elicited by cumulative activation of vagal afferents were examined in neurons of the rostral ventrolateral medulla oblongata, which play an important role in the coordination of cardiovascular and other visceral activities. The study has focused on the late-onset, slow inhibitory component of vagal responses, which is likely to affect the temporal modulation of postsynaptic effects. Vagal stimulation elicited four distinct response patterns in intracellularly penetrated neurons (n = 78): excitation, inhibition, excitation-inhibition and inhibition-inhibition. The late inhibitory component was encountered in 43 (55%) of the cells, including five putative medullospinal neurons. It was due to a postsynaptic hyperpolarization which reversed at potentials more negative than -83 mV. The voltage dependency, as well as the average onset latency (93+/-3.0 ms), duration (270+/-16.5 ms) and amplitude (1.3+/-0.2 mV as measured at resting membrane potentials), of late inhibition were clearly different from those of the short-latency inhibitory response. The differences in the voltage dependency and time-course of the short-latency responses and the late inhibition indicate that they are mediated by different central relays. In the majority of neurons, late inhibition could be elicited by stimulating only myelinated vagal afferents. The magnitude of the response was, however, significantly enhanced in 63% of the examined cells when the intensity of stimulation was raised to recruit further myelinated and non-myelinated fibres. This indicates that late vagal inhibition is often elicited by a cumulative activation of convergent afferent inputs. The intracellularly labelled vagally responsive neurons were present at all rostrocaudal levels of the rostral ventrolateral medulla, with an accumulation in the region of the lateral paragigantocellular nucleus. Neurons that exhibited late vagal inhibition were dominant in the juxtafacial region of this nucleus. Due to its slow time-course, late vagal inhibition may contribute to a tonic modulation of the activity of neurons in the rostral ventrolateral medulla oblongata. It is proposed that late vagal inhibition plays an important role in the temporal integration of sensory inputs in neurons of the rostral ventrolateral medulla oblongata. The time-course and strength of this modulatory effect are related to the level of activity in those visceral sensory inputs that converge onto the inhibitory interneurons that mediate late inhibition to rostral ventrolateral medulla oblongata neurons.

Central CO2 chemoreception: a mechanism involving P2 purinoceptors localized in the ventrolateral medulla of the anaesthetized rat

1. The involvement of P2 purinoceptors in chemosensory function in the ventrolateral regions of the medulla oblongata was investigated in the anaesthetized rat. We have investigated the effect of antagonizing, or desensitizing, P2 receptors in the retrofacial area of the ventrolateral medulla on factors modifying respiratory activity. 2. Bilateral microinjection of suramin (50 nl, 0.02 M), a P2 purinoceptor antagonist, into the retrofacial area in the artificially ventilated rat reduced resting phrenic nerve discharge. It also markedly affected the response of the phrenic nerve to increases in arterial CO2. Under conditions of hyperoxic, hypocapnic apnoea, the mean threshold for inducing phrenic nerve activity was raised significantly (from an end-tidal CO2 of 2.5 % to 4.5 %, n = 9). 3. In addition, the slope of the respiratory response curve to increases in CO2 was reduced after suramin. A similar effect was observed after desensitization of certain P2X receptors with alphabeta-methyleneATP. As arterial levels of O2 were greater than 100 mmHg, and an equivalent pattern of response was observed in sino-aortically denervated and vagotomized animals, we believe any contribution of the peripheral chemoreceptors to be minimal. 4. Our data suggest that respiratory neurones within the retrofacial area (Botzinger complex) represent part of the central site of action of CO2 on respiration. Moreover, our observations lead us to suggest that CO2-evoked changes in respiration are mediated at least in part by P2X purinoceptors.

A novel influence of adenosine on ongoing activity in rat rostral ventrolateral medulla

We have investigated whether exogenously applied adenosine modulates neuronal activity in a region of the central nervous system crucial for cardiovascular regulation. Extracellular recordings were made from neurons in the rostral ventrolateral medulla of the anaesthetized rat. Ionophoretic application of adenosine altered ongoing activity in 91% of neurons, evoking either a long-lasting depression or a short-lasting increase in firing rate. Both responses were blocked by application of the broad spectrum adenosine receptor antagonist 8-sulphophenyltheophylline, indicating that the responses were mediated by specific cell surface receptors. The adenosine A1 receptor antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dimethylxanthine blocked the increase, and partially blocked the decrease in firing rate in response to adenosine. The GABA(A) receptor antagonist bicuculline also blocked the increase in firing rate in response to adenosine, suggesting that adenosine may inhibit release of GABA from axon terminals in this region. The adenosine A2a receptor agonist CGS 21680 produced a long-lasting depression of ongoing activity. These results suggest that A1 receptors mediate an increase in firing rate, whilst A1 and A2a receptors mediate decreases in firing rate in some rostral ventrolateral medulla neurons. Thus, adenosine has been shown to modulate the ongoing activity of neurons in the rostral ventrolateral medulla by acting at both A1 and A2a receptors. Accordingly, we suggest, and provide some evidence to support the idea, that adenosine acts as an important neuromodulator in this region of the central nervous system, possibly by modulating the presynaptic release of neurotransmitters such as GABA.

Convergence properties of solitary tract neurons responsive to cardiac receptor stimulation in the anesthetized cat

The convergence pattern of cardiac receptors, pulmonary C-fibers, carotid chemoreceptor, and baroreceptor afferents onto neurons within the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) was studied in the anesthetized (pentobarbitone sodium, 40 mg/kg,) paralyzed and artificially ventilated cat. Extra- and intracellular recordings were made from NTS neurons while stimulating both cardiac receptors by aortic root injections of veratridine (1-3 micrograms/kg) and pulmonary C-fibers by a right atrial injection of phenylbiguanide (10-20 micrograms/kg). The ipsilateral carotid body was stimulated by using arterial injection of CO2-saturated bicarbonate solution, whereas inflation of the ipsilateral carotid sinus was used to activate baroreceptors. The ipsilateral cardiac vagal branch, cervical vagus, and carotid sinus nerves were stimulated electrically (1 Hz, 0.2-1 ms, 1-35 V). In 78 NTS neurons recorded either extracellularly (n = 47) or intracellularly (n = 31), electrical stimulation of the cardiac branch of the vagus nerve evoked synaptic potentials (spikes and/or excitatory postsynaptic potentials) with an onset latency between 4 and 220 ms. Some neurons displayed both short and long latency inputs(15.5 +/- 1.8 and 160.0 +/- 8.5 ms; n = 14). Of these 78 neurons, 24 responded to veratridine stimulation of cardiac receptors (i.e., cardioreceptive neurons) by exhibiting an augmenting-decrementing discharge of 37 +/- 4 s in duration with a peak frequency of 30 +/- 5 Hz. Convergence from other cardiorespiratory receptors was noted involving either carotid chemoreceptors (n = 7) or pulmonary C-fibers (n = 4) or from both carotid chemoreceptors and pulmonary C-fibers (n = 6). In contrast, only one cardioreceptive NTS neuron was activated by distension of the carotid sinus. Recording sites recovered were confined to the medial NTS at the level of the area postrema and extended caudally into the commissural subnucleus. Our results indicate a convergence of carotid chemoreceptor and pulmonary C-fiber afferent inputs to cardioreceptive NTS neurons. With the paucity of baroreceptor inputs to these neurons it is suggested that sensory integration within the NTS may reflect regulatory versus defensive or protective reflex control.

Hypoxic response of hypoglossal motoneurones in the in vivo cat

1. In current and voltage clamp, the effects of hypoxia were studied on resting and synaptic properties of hypoglossal motoneurones in barbiturate-anaesthetized adult cats. 2. Twenty-nine hypoglossal motoneurones with a mean membrane potential of -55 mV responded rapidly to acute hypoxia with a persistent membrane depolarization of about +17 mV. This depolarization correlated with the development of a persistent inward current of 0.3 nA at holding potentials close to resting membrane potential. 3. Superior laryngeal nerve (SLN) stimulation-evoked EPSPs were reduced in amplitude by, on average, 46% while IPSP amplitude was reduced by 31% SLN stimulation-evoked EPSCs were reduced by 50-70%. 4. Extracellular application of adenosine (10 mM) hyperpolarized hypoglossal motoneurones by, on average, 5.6 mV, from a control value of -62 mV. SLN stimulation-evoked EPSPs decreased by 18% and IPSPs decreased by 46% during adenosine application. 5. Extracellular application of the KATP channel blocker glibenclamide led to a blockade of a persistent outward current and a significant increase of SLN stimulation-evoked EPSCs. 6. We conclude that hypoglossal motoneurones have a very low tolerance to hypoxia. They appear to be under metabolic stress even in normoxia and their capacity to activate protective potassium currents is limited when compared with other brainstem neurones. This may help to explain the rapid disturbance of hypoglossal function during energy depletion.

Central nervous system control of cardiovascular function: neural mechanisms and novel modulators

1. Studies are described that indicate that hypothalamic stimulation, at sites eliciting the defence reaction, results in an increase in adenosine levels in both the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) and rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) of the rat. 2. Adenosine receptor antagonists applied to these sites attenuate the pressor response elicited by hypothalamic stimulation. Adenosine appears to be produced extracellularly from ATP, which is released from axon terminals in both the NTS and RVLM. 3. The implications of these observations for the pharmacology of hypothalamic actions on reflex inputs that modify cardiorespiratory function are discussed.

Demonstration of glutamate immunoreactivity in vagal sensory afferents in the nucleus tractus solitarius of the rat

To investigate whether glutamate is a neurotransmitter in vagus nerve sensory afferents terminating in the nucleus tractus solitarius, these terminals were identified by the anterograde transport and their glutamate content examined using the post-embedding immunogold technique. After injection of horseradish peroxidase into the nodose ganglion anterogradely labelled axonal boutons were visualized throughout the nucleus of the solitary tract (nTS), the dorsal motonucleus of the vagus nerve (DVN), predominantly ipsilateral to the injection, and to a lesser extent in the area postrema. Electron microscopic analysis of 47 anterogradely labelled boutons in the nTS following post-embedding immunocytochemistry for glutamate revealed that 43 of these boutons (> 91%) contained a level of glutamate immunoreactivity significantly greater (P < 0.001%) than that observed in the surrounding tissue. The observed enrichment of glutamate immunoreactivity in boutons identified as vagus nerve sensory afferents indicate that glutamate may be a transmitter in these neurones.

Stimulation within the rostral ventrolateral medulla can evoke monosynaptic GABAergic IPSPs in sympathetic preganglionic neurons in vitro

The inhibitory responses of identified sympathetic preganglionic neurons (SPNs) to stimulation within the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) were studied to determine their nature and pharmacology. Whole cell patch-clamp recordings were made from 36 SPNs in the upper thoracic segments of the spinal cord in a neonatal rat brain stem-spinal cord preparation. Neurons were identified as SPNs on the basis of their antidromic activation after stimulation of the ipsilateral segmental ventral root and their morphology and location in the intermediolateral cell column and intercalated nucleus. In all SPNs, electrical stimulation of the RVLM evoked fast excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) that were mediated by non-N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) and NMDA receptors. These excitatory responses were the most prominent response in control artificial cerebrospinal fluid and have been studied previously. In 22 of the SPNs, RVLM stimulation also elicited fast inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (IPSPs), which increased in amplitude as the membrane was depolarized. Five of these neurons were not studied further as they responded occasionally with IPSPs that had highly variable onset latencies indicating the involvement of a polysynaptic pathway. In the remaining SPNs (n = 17), the evoked IPSPs persisted in the presence of the excitatory amino acid antagonists 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3,-dione and D,L-2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoic acid. In eight of these SPNs, it was necessary to block the EPSPs to reveal the IPSPs. In the 7 SPNs tested, the onset latencies of the IPSPs were not significantly different from the onset latencies of the fast EPSPs. The low sweep-to-sweep fluctuations in onset latency of individual IPSPs (absolute average deviation: 0.4 ms) indicated that the IPSPs were elicited by activation of a monosynaptic pathway. The amplitudes of the IPSPs decreased in amplitude as the membrane was hyperpolarized and reversed in polarity at -70.3 +/- 1.7 mV (mean +/- SD), which was close to the equilibrium potential for chloride ions. In addition, in seven SPNs, bath applications of 5 microM bicuculline, a gamma-aminobuturic acid-A (GABAA) antagonist, abolished or reduced the evoked IPSPs. Five SPNs also were studied that displayed ongoing IPSPs. The amplitudes of these IPSPs increased with membrane depolarization and were blocked by bath applications of 5 microM bicuculline, suggesting that they also were mediated by activation of GABAA receptors. These results demonstrate the existence of a bulbospinal GABAergic pathway impinging directly onto SPNs. This pathway may be tonically active in the neonatal rat brain stem-spinal cord preparation.

A source of adenosine involved in cardiovascular responses to defense area stimulation

We have investigated the source of central adenosine important in modulating the cardiovascular response to hypothalamic defense area (HDA) stimulation in alpha-chloralose-anesthetized rats. Microinjections of an ecto-5'-nucleotidase inhibitor, alpha,beta-methylene ADP (alpha,beta-meADP), were made into caudal nucleus of the solitary tract (cNTS) and rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM), and its effects on HDA-evoked responses were observed. Stimulation of HDA evoked an increase in arterial pressure and a secondary rise in arterial pressure after stimulation ceased. There was also an increase in heart rate and hindlimb blood flow. alpha,beta-meADP had no effect on resting levels of arterial pressure, heart rate, and hindlimb blood flow when injected into the cNTS or RVLM. alpha,beta-meADP also had no effect on the HDA-evoked tachycardia and increase in muscle blood flow. However, alpha,beta-meADP reduced the primary increase in arterial pressure evoked by HDA stimulation when microinjected into the cNTS. In contrast, alpha,beta-meADP reduced the secondary increase in arterial pressure when microinjected into the RVLM. From these results, we suggest that at least part of the adenosine released centrally during HDA stimulation is derived extracellularly from ATP metabolism.

Stimulation of aortic nerve evokes three different response patterns in neurons of rostral VLM of the rat

Because the aortic nerve of the rat is believed to contain only barosensory fibers in a functionally significant number, stimulation of this nerve provides a convenient means to identify barosensitive neurons in the central nervous system. The aim of the present study was to describe the characteristics of responses to stimulation of the aortic nerve in the neurons of the ventrolateral medulla oblongata (VLM) from in vivo intracellular recordings. Data were obtained from 25 neurons that were either spontaneously active and exhibited pulse-synchronous discharge or were silent. Cells that showed a regular increase in their discharge rate during diastole responded with either an inhibitory postsynaptic potential (IPSP, group 1; n = 3) or a biphasic excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP)-IPSP (group 2; n = 10) to aortic nerve stimulation. Parameters of the inhibitory response were similar in both groups (27 +/- 2 and 31 +/- 2 ms for onset latency and 55 +/- 10 and 67 +/- 7 ms in duration, respectively). In group 2 cells, the inhibition was, however, preceded by a brief excitation (14 +/- 2 ms for onset latency and 13 +/- 1 ms in duration). Group 3 neurons, which showed a regular increase in their discharge rate during or before systole (n = 7), responded with an EPSP (20 +/- 2 ms for onset latency and 44 +/- 5 ms in average duration). Group 1 and 3 responses were also encountered in quiescent neurons (n = 5). Intracellular labeling revealed that neurons of all three types were localized within the rostral VLM. The functional significance of these findings is discussed.

The effect of 5-HT and selective 5-HT receptor agonists and antagonists on rat dorsal vagal preganglionic neurones in vitro

1. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings were made from 142 visually identified rat dorsal vagal preganglionic neurones (DVMs). Applications of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT, 20 microM, 2 min) elicited a slow depolarization (8.2 +/- 0.5 mV, n = 59) in 95% of the cells tested, accompanied by an increase in excitability. In (68%) of DVMs the depolarization was associated with an increase in apparent membrane resistance (Rmt 22.7 +/- 2.2%). These depolarizations and increases in Rm (14.3 +/- 2.6%, n = 8) were maintained in a medium which blocked synaptic transmission. 2. The response to 5-HT was associated with a reversal potential (Erev) of -91 +/- 1 mV at an extracellular K+ concentration (LK+]o) of 4.2 mM. This correlated well with the K+ equilibrium potential (Ek = -89 mV). 3. The depolarizing effect of 5-HT was attenuated by the 5-HT2A/2C receptor antagonists, ketanserin (1 microM), LY 53,857 (1 microM) and the 5-HT1A/2A receptor antagonist, spiperone (1 microM). The 5-HT1A receptor antagonist, pindobind 5-HT1A (5 microM), had no effect on the depolarizing response to 5-HT. 4. The effect of 5-HT was mimicked by the 5-HT2A/2C receptor agonist, alpha-methyl-5-HT (50 microM), the 5-HT1 receptor agonist, 5-carboxamidotryptamine (20 microM) and the putative 5-HT4 agonist, 5-methyoxytryptamine (5 microM). The selective 5-HT4 receptor antagonist, GR113808, had no effect on the depolarizing effect of 5-HT or 5-MEOT on DVMs. 5. The 5-HT3 antagonists, MDL 72222 (10 microM) and ICS-205-930 (1 and 10 microM), partially reduced the effect of 5-HT. The 5-HT3 receptor agonist, 2-methyl-5-HT (100-300 microM), excited a proportion of neurones tested (56%) by evoking a depolarizing and/or an increase in postsynaptic potentials (p.s.ps). 6. These results are consistent with direct, postsynaptic actions of 5-HT on DVMs via 5-HT2A receptors, being mediated, in part, by the reduction of K+ conductance.

The role of adenosine receptors in the rostral ventrolateral medulla in the cardiovascular response to defence area stimulation in the rat

The effects of microinjections of adenosine and an adenosine receptor antagonist into the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) on the cardiovascular changes associated with the defence reaction were investigated in anaesthetized rats. Responses to electrical and chemical stimulation in RVLM were determined in alpha-chloralose-anaesthetized, paralysed and artificially ventilated rats. Microinjections of adenosine (10 nM) and the adenosine receptor antagonist 8-sulphophenyl-theophylline (8-SPT; 0.12 microM) were made into the RVLM and their effects on arterial pressure (ABP), heart rate (HR) and skeletal muscle blood flow determined. Microinjections of adenosine into the RVLM evoked either an increase or a decrease in ABP, with variable effects on HR. These actions of adenosine were blocked by prior injection of 8-SPT at the same site. Histological analysis showed that adenosine evoked an increase in arterial pressure when injected into rostral areas of the RVLM, and a depressor response when injected into caudal regions. Furthermore, microinjections of adenosine into the RVLM augmented the increase in ABP evoked by electrical stimulation of the hypothalamic defence area (HDA). Whilst microinjection of 8-SPT into RVLM had no effect on the baseline levels of the variables measured, it reduced the HDA-evoked increase in ABP. From these results we propose that adenosine modulates the cardiovascular changes evoked upon stimulation of the HDA via an action on sympatho-excitatory neurones within the rostral ventrolateral medulla.

Role of brainstem adenosine A1 receptors in the cardiovascular response to hypothalamic defence area stimulation in the anaesthetized rat

1. The role of centrally located adenosine A1 receptors in the cardiovascular changes associated with the hypothalamic defence response has been investigated by in vitro autoradiography and the intraventricular application of an A1 receptor antagonist. 2. 8-Cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX), a highly selective adenosine A1 antagonist and its vehicle, ethanol, were administered directly into the posterior portion of the fourth ventricle of alpha-chloralose anaesthetized, paralysed and artificially ventilated rats. 3. DPCPX (0.01 to 0.3 mg kg-1) caused a dose-dependent decrease in the magnitude of the evoked pressor response (from -13 to -23 mmHg) elicited on hypothalamic defence area stimulation at a dose 10 fold lower than that required to produce an equivalent effect following systemic administration whilst ethanol, the vehicle, had no effect. 4. In vitro autoradiography revealed a heterogeneous distribution of adenosine A1 binding sites in the lower brainstem of rats. Image analysis showed the ventrolateral medulla to have the highest density of A1 receptors. Intermediate levels of binding were seen in caudal regions of the nucleus tractus solitarii and the hypoglossal nucleus. 5. These data imply that a proportion of the cardiovascular response to hypothalamic defence area stimulation are produced by the activation of adenosine A1 receptors localized close to the surface of, or adjacent to, the fourth ventricle in the immediate vicinity of the injection site.

Hypothalamic modulation of laryngeal reflexes in the anaesthetized cat: role of the nucleus tractus solitarii

1. This investigation was initiated because activation of laryngeal afferents, either by electrical stimulation of the superior laryngeal nerve (SLN) or by natural stimulation of receptors in the laryngeal mucosa, results in a cardiorespiratory response comprising bradycardia, hypotension and apnoea (phrenic nerve activity was suppressed). This pattern of response is qualitatively equivalent to the response that is evoked on activation of the arterial baroreceptors. 2. Preliminary studies indicated that the effects of activating the SLN were suppressed during stimulation in the hypothalamic defence area (HDA) at points that also blocked the effects of baroreceptor stimulation. 3. Recordings were taken from seventy-two neurones localized within the ipsilateral nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) whose activity was modified by SLN stimulation. Sixty neurones responded with an EPSP on SLN stimulation; nine of these had an inspiratory firing pattern. Five neurones were seen to receive an IPSP on SLN stimulation. 4. Five respiratory SLN-activated neurones were unresponsive to stimulation of the other nerve inputs, whilst four received convergent EPSP inputs on sinus nerve (SN) stimulation. One cell of these four also received inputs from the aortic and the vagus nerves. Sixty-one non-respiratory SLN-activated neurones also received convergent inputs from the sinus nerve. Of these, fifty displayed an EPSP, four an IPSP and seven an EPSP-IPSP. Fifteen neurones also received inputs from the aortic nerve and seventeen from the vagus. 5. From the population of neurones affected by SLN stimulation, twenty-four of seventy were also influenced by HDA stimulation (3 were respiratory cells). Sixteen of these responses consisted of an EPSP (2 respiratory cells), five of an IPSP (1 respiratory cell) and three of an EPSP-IPSP. 6. In neurones receiving an IPSP on HDA stimulation, the SLN-evoked excitatory response was reduced throughout the period of HDA-evoked inhibition. These neurones were all shown to receive excitatory inputs from the arterial baroreceptors and laryngeal mechanoreceptors. 7. Additionally, in the thirty-seven neurones that were excited by SLN stimulation but received no direct synaptic input on HDA stimulation, a conditioning stimulus to the HDA evoked a block of SLN-evoked responses without an accompanying change in membrane potential. Several of these neurones were also affected by both baroreceptor and laryngeal mechanoreceptor stimulation. 8. These observations are discussed in the context of the role of the NTS in cardiorespiratory control. The potential importance of these interactions in respiratory distress are highlighted and the implications for the organization of central pathways for the control of autonomic and respiratory function are discussed.

Hypothalamic modulation of the arterial chemoreceptor reflex in the anaesthetized cat: role of the nucleus tractus solitarii

1. There is evidence in the literature of a mutual facilitatory interaction between the arterial chemoreceptor reflex and the alerting stage of the defence reaction, particularly in relation to the patterning of cardiorespiratory activity. The present study has been designed to test the hypothesis that a portion of this interaction involves synaptic interactions within the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS). 2. The study has involved an analysis of the effective interactions between the stimulation of the arterial chemoreceptors and the hypothalamic defence area (HDA) on the activity of NTS neurones recorded in anaesthetized, paralysed and artificially ventilated cats. 3. A group of eighteen NTS neurones was classified as chemosensitive, on the basis of displaying EPSPs on sinus nerve stimulation (SN) and their failure to show an excitatory response to baroreceptor stimulation. Thirteen of these neurones displayed pronounced excitatory responses to chemoreceptor stimulation. In sixteen of these neurones HDA stimulation elicited an EPSP; in four of these sixteen neurones this early EPSP was followed by an IPSP. In the remaining two (of 18) neurones HDA stimulation provoked no obvious synaptic response but facilitated the efficacy of both chemoreceptor inputs and SN stimulation. 4. Neurones shown to receive convergent inputs from the arterial chemoreceptors (and SN stimulation) and HDA, often displayed excitatory responses to stimulation of other peripheral inputs. Vagally evoked EPSPs were observed in nine neurones, SLN-evoked responses in seven neurones and aortic nerve-evoked EPSPs in three neurones. 5. The organization of these synaptic interactions is discussed and these data are used to explain the pattern of interaction between chemoreceptor, baroreceptor and HDA inputs within the NTS. Conclusions are drawn regarding the functional role of different classes of NTS neurone, based on the findings in this and the accompanying two papers.

The pattern of excitatory inputs to the nucleus tractus solitarii evoked on stimulation in the hypothalamic defence area in the cat

1. In anaesthetized, paralysed and artificially ventilated cats, recordings have been made in the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) to assess further the role of this nucleus in mediating the cardiorespiratory responses that are elicited on stimulation within the hypothalamic defence area (HDA). 2. The responses of NTS neurones to stimulation in the hypothalamus were assessed, as were their patterns of evoked response to electrical stimulation of the sinus (SN), aortic (AN), superior laryngeal (SLN) and vagus (VN) nerves. 3. Stimulation in the HDA affected the activity of 110 NTS neurones (85 studied in intracellular and 25 studied in extracellular recordings). The present study focused on those sixty-eight neurones that were excited by such stimulation (51 intracellular recordings and 17 extracellular recordings). 4. Of the sixty-eight neurones that were excited by HDA stimulation, seven revealed no changes in membrane potential or evoked discharge (2 neurones) but the stimulus facilitated the excitatory effects of stimulating either (or both) the SN and SLN. An additional group of neurones showed powerful excitatory responses to HDA stimulation (15 studied with extracellular and 35 with intracellular recording). Evoked EPSPs had onset latencies in the range of 1-30 ms. Of those thirty-five neurones displaying EPSPs, twenty-six were shown to receive convergent inputs on nerve stimulation. In nine neurones the early EPSP in response to HDA stimulation was followed by an IPSP. 5. In a further group of neurones HDA stimulation elicited a long-lasting IPSP, but this was not analysed further because its features have been described in detail in earlier studies from this laboratory. 6. The patterns of response of several neurones excited by stimulation in the HDA are consistent with them forming a group of NTS interneurones that mediate the hypothalamically evoked cardiovascular responses, including modulation of reflex function, which is a major feature of cardiorespiratory control. This possibility is discussed in the light of the present physiological observations and descriptions of an intrinsic NTS group of GABA-containing neurones that have been suggested to fulfil such a role.

Endothelins and rat carotid body: autoradiographic and functional pharmacological studies

The effects of ET-1 and ET-3 on ventilation and carotid chemosensory discharge have been studied in rats anaesthetised with pentotarbitone. Autoradiographic studies were also performed in vitro to investigate the binding of [125I]ET-1 to rat carotid body, nodose ganglion and brain stem. ET-1 caused a dose-related hyperventilation that was abolished by cutting both carotid sinus nerves. Recordings of chemosensory discharge from the carotid sinus nerve confirmed that ET-1 caused chemoexcitation. ET-3 had only slight effects. The hyperventilation evoked by ET-1 was antagonised by the ETA receptor antagonist FR139317, but responses to hypoxia (10% oxygen) and to cyanide were unaffected. [125I]ET-1 bound to the carotid body, the nodose ganglion and to the brain stem, particularly in the region of the nucleus tractus solitarii. ET-1 binding in the carotid body was displaceable by FR139317, which is consistent with the functional evidence for ETA receptors in the carotid body. The effects of ET-1 on ventilation, coupled with the presence of ET binding sites in areas involved in respiratory and cardiovascular regulation, is consistent with a physiological role for ET in the control of respiration, but our evidence suggests that ET is not crucial for chemotransduction in acute hypoxia.

A study of sympathetic preganglionic neuronal activity in a neonatal rat brainstem-spinal cord preparation

Extracellular recordings were made from 46 sympathetic preganglionic neurones (SPNs) in a neonatal rat brainstem-spinal cord preparation. Neurones were identified as SPNs as they were: (i) activated at constant latencies (2-10 ms) following stimulation of the ventral root, which indicated antidromic activation and (ii) recorded at sites located either in the intermediolateral cell column or the intercalated nucleus of the thoracic spinal cord. Over one-third of the neurones (n = 17) recorded displayed ongoing activity with firing frequencies of 0.3-5 Hz. Of the neurones analyzed only one showed a very obvious phasic firing pattern. Dorsal root stimulation evoked firing in 16 of 26 SPNs recorded from the same spinal segment (6 of 10 with ongoing activity). The types of responses observed varied between neurones. The excitation of all neurones was characterised by a response occurring at a latency of 6-50 ms. In addition, SPNs in 'spinalised' preparations (n = 2) responded with latencies of 10-40 ms, similar to those observed in the intact preparation. The latencies of responses in SPNs were longer and more variable than those observed in ventral horn motor neurones. This indicates that a spinal polysynaptic pathway was involved in mediating these responses. In 7 SPNs dorsal root stimulation also elicited longer latency responses which were observed up to 1000 ms after stimulation. These responses may involve activation of bulbospinal and/or propriospinal pathways. These results show that the neonatal rat brainstem-spinal cord preparation is viable for studying SPNs and that dorsal root-SPN reflexes are intact.

A potential role of central A1 adenosine receptors in the responses to hypothalamic stimulation in the anaesthetized cat

In pentobarbitone anaesthetized and paralysed cats the effects of the A1 adenosine antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX) have been observed on the pressor response to stimulation of the hypothalamic defence area (HDA) and on the effects of baroreceptor and chemoreceptor reflex activation on arterial blood pressure. The administration of DPCPX decreased the magnitude of the HDA pressor response and the chemoreceptor induced rise in blood pressure. The fall in blood pressure induced by baroreceptor activation was enhanced to a small yet significant extent. No changes were observed in the tachypnoea evoked by hypothalamic defence area (HDA) stimulation. These results suggest a possible role for central adenosine A1 receptors in mediating the cardiovascular changes evoked during HDA stimulation.

Action of adenosine receptor antagonists on the cardiovascular response to defence area stimulation in the rat

1. The action of adenosine in the mediation of the cardiovascular changes associated with the defence reaction has been investigated in the rat using two A1 receptor antagonists. 2. Cumulative doses of 1,3 dipropyl-cyclopentylxanthine (DPCPX) (0.3-3 mg kg-1) and ethanol (0.03-0.25 ml) and bolus doses of DPCPX (3 mg kg-1) and 8-sulphophenyltheophylline (8-SPT) (20 mg kg-1) were given into alpha-chloralose, paralysed and artificially ventilated rats. Recordings were made of arterial blood pressure and heart rate. 3. Ethanol, the vehicle for DPCPX, failed to modify the magnitude of the defence response; however, cumulative doses of DPCPX produced a dose-dependent decrease in the HDA (hypothalamic defence area)-evoked increase in arterial blood pressure, accompanied by a similar fall in the magnitude of the evoked heart rate response. 4. The evoked rise in arterial blood pressure was reduced significantly by intravenous injection of DPCPX (3 mg kg-1) but not 8-SPT (20 mg kg-1), a purely peripherally acting adenosine antagonist. 5. These results suggest that adenosine acting at A1 receptors located in the central nervous system, is involved in the HDA-evoked pressor response. Whilst the site of action of the A1 receptors is not known, possible locations are discussed.

Cardiovascular and respiratory effects of stimulation of cell bodies of the parabrachial nuclei in the anaesthetized rat

1. In order to assess the importance of the parabrachial nuclei in modulating cardiorespiratory activity, electric current or microinjections of glutamate were used to stimulate discrete regions of the parabrachial nuclei in anaesthetized rats. 2. Stimulation of cell bodies in the medial region of the parabrachial nuclei and in the Kölliker-Fuse nuclei, caused an expiratory facilitatory response. This consisted mainly of a decrease in respiratory rate as measured by observing phrenic nerve activity. 3. Stimulation of cell bodies in the lateral region of the parabrachial nuclei caused an inspiratory facilitatory response. This consisted mainly of an increase in respiratory rate. 4. At the majority of sites (16 out of 20) where changes in respiratory rate were elicited by glutamate injection or electrical stimulation an increase in blood pressure was observed. The coexistence of increases in blood pressure and heart rate indicates the presence of inhibition of the heart rate component of the baroreflex and/or an increase in cardiac sympathetic drive. 5. The expiratory facilitatory response was not evoked reflexly by the rise in blood pressure since it was still present after administration of guanethidine, which abolished the rise in blood pressure. 6. The interactions between the parabrachial nuclei and the medullary respiratory complex in eliciting these changes are discussed.

Responses of ventral respiratory neurones in the rat to vagus stimulation and the functional division of expiration

In anaesthetized rats, extracellular and intracellular recordings were taken from 106 respiratory neurones in the intermediate region of the nucleus ambiguus. We observed unprovoked shortening of expiratory time accompanied, in all classes of respiratory neurone, by the elimination of the changes in membrane potential that were characteristic of stage II expiration. The demonstration of the elimination of stage II expiration in both the rat and cat strongly supports the functional division of expiration into stage I expiration (post-inspiration) and stage II expiration. In order to identify the neurones in the rat that receive inputs from vagal afferents and modulate the central respiratory rhythm, we examined whether any respiratory neurones responded to stimulation of the vagus nerve. Some post-inspiratory and stage II expiratory neurones responded. The short latency (< 2 ms) of four of the responses indicates that some vagal afferents act on post-inspiratory neurones via a disynaptic pathway. While repetitive stimulation of the vagus nerve could inhibit the phrenic rhythm, it appears that most inspiratory neurones in the intermediate region of the nucleus ambiguous complex are not directly involved in integrating the information from vagal afferents with the central respiratory rhythm.