Search results for " synapse"
showing 4 items of 44 documents
Modeling of neuron-astrocyte interaction : application to signal and image processing
2022
The introduction of the tripartite synapse and the discovery of calcium wave propagation motivated our research to explore the potential of astrocytes as active components in brain circuits. For decades, astrocytes have been considered passive cells whose primary function is metabolic and structural support to neurons; however, recent physiological measurements suggest that astrocytes modulate neural communication, strengthen synaptic efficacy, enhance synchronization, and promote homeostasis. Inspired by these biological functions, this research aimed to implement astrocytes in artificial spiking networks for deep learning applications. First, we modeled the biological interaction between …
Downregulation of the Astroglial Connexin Expression and Neurodegeneration after Pilocarpine-Induced Status Epilepticus
2022
Astrocytic networks and gap junctional communication mediated by connexins (Cxs) have been repeatedly implicated in seizures, epileptogenesis, and epilepsy. However, the effect of seizures on Cx expression is controversial. The present study focused on the response of Cxs to status epilepticus (SE), which is in turn an epileptogenic insult. The expression of neuronal Cx36 and astrocytic Cx30 and Cx43 mRNAs was investigated in the brain of rats in the first day after pilocarpine-induced SE. In situ hybridization revealed a progressive decrease in Cx43 and Cx30 mRNA levels, significantly marked 24 h after SE onset in neocortical areas and the hippocampus, and in most thalamic domains, whereas…
GLP-2 receptor expression in excitatory and inhibitory enteric neurons and its role in mouse duodenum contractility
2011
Background Glucagon-like peptide 2 (GLP-2), a nutrient-responsive hormone, exerts various actions in the gastrointestinal tract that are mediated by a G-protein coupled receptor called GLP-2R. A little information is available on GLP-2R expression in enteric neurons and nothing on the interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC). Methods We investigated presence and distribution of the GLP-2R in the mouse duodenum by immunohistochemistry and the potential motor effects of GLP-2 on the spontaneous and neurally evoked mechanical activity. Key Results The GLP-2R was expressed by the myenteric and submucosal neurons. Labelling was also present in nerve varicosities within the circular muscular layer an…
Distribution and Function of Gap Junction Coupling in Cortical GABAergic Neurons.
2013
Although gap junctions have been observed in GABAergic interneurons of several brain regions, this chapter focuses on the distribution and functions of gap junctions and connexins in inhibitory interneurons of the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. Evidence for interconnections mediated by electrical synapses is reported for at least eight cerebral cortex interneuron types, classified on the basis of morphology, electrophysiology and molecular markers. The main differences in the organization of these interneuronal networks are summarized in terms of homologous and heterologous electrical coupling and mutual chemical inhibition. The role of connexin36 (Cx36) in forming neuronal electrical syn…