Pharmacological Analysis of the Activation and Receptor Properties of the Tonic GABACR Current in Retinal Bipolar Cell Terminals
2011

Understanding GABAC Receptor Activation in Retinal Bipolar Cells

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Jones Stefanie M., Palmer Mary J.

Primary Institution: Keele University, Keele, United Kingdom

Hypothesis

The study investigates the role of anion channels in non-vesicular GABA release and the receptor properties of GABACRs in retinal bipolar cell terminals.

Conclusion

The tonic GABACR current in bipolar cell terminals is activated by GABA released via a DIDS-sensitive mechanism, with homomeric ρ1 receptors contributing to this current.

Supporting Evidence

  • The tonic GABACR current is not dependent on vesicular GABA release.
  • DIDS was found to inhibit the tonic GABACR current without directly affecting GABACRs.
  • Homomeric ρ1 receptors contribute to the tonic GABACR current.

Takeaway

This study looks at how certain receptors in the eye respond to a chemical called GABA, which helps control how signals are sent from the eye to the brain.

Methodology

The study used patch-clamp recordings from goldfish retinal slices to analyze the effects of various anion channel inhibitors on GABACR-mediated currents.

Limitations

The study does not identify the specific anion channel or exchanger mediating tonic GABA release in the retina.

Participant Demographics

Goldfish (Carassius auratus) were used for the experiments.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0024892

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