The h-current in the substantia Nigra pars compacta neurons: a re-examination.

ABSTRACT: The properties of the hyperpolarization-activated cation current (I(h)) were investigated in rat substantia nigra - pars compacta (SNc) principal neurons using patch-clamp recordings in thin slices. A reliable identification of single dopaminergic neurons was made possible by the use of a transgenic line of mice expressing eGFP under the tyrosine hydroxylase promoter. The effects of temperature and different protocols on the I(h) kinetics showed that, at 37°C and minimizing the disturbance of the intracellular milieu with perforated patch, this current actually activates at potentials more positive than what is generally indicated, with a half-activation potential of -77.05 mV and with a significant level of opening already at rest, thereby substantially contributing to the control of memb

SUBMITTER: Gambardella C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3528748 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature