Calcitonin gene-related peptide alters the firing rates of hypothalamic temperature sensitive and insensitive neurons
2008
CGRP Affects Neuron Activity in the Hypothalamus
Sample size: 45
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Daniel C. Braasch, Erin M. Deegan, Eleanor R. Grimm, John D. Griffin
Primary Institution: College of William and Mary
Hypothesis
CGRP stimulates a hyperthermic response by altering the firing rates of warm sensitive and temperature insensitive neurons in the hypothalamus.
Conclusion
CGRP dependent changes in neuron firing rates can lead to hyperthermia.
Supporting Evidence
- CGRP decreased the firing rate of all warm sensitive neurons.
- The majority of temperature insensitive neurons increased their firing rate in response to CGRP.
- CGRP application resulted in a significant change in neuron activity.
Takeaway
This study found that a hormone called CGRP can change how certain brain cells fire, which might make the body warmer.
Methodology
The study recorded the activity of hypothalamic neurons in rat brain slices in response to temperature changes and CGRP exposure.
Participant Demographics
Adult male rats (100–150 g)
Statistical Information
P-Value
p ≤ 0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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