Nonsynaptic communication through ATP release from volume-activated anion channels in axons.

ABSTRACT: The release of neuronal messengers outside synapses has broad biological implications, particularly with regard to communication between axons and glia. We identify a mechanism for nonsynaptic, nonvesicular release of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) from axons through volume-activated anion channels (VAACs) activated by microscopic axon swelling during action potential firing. We used a combination of single-photon imaging of ATP release, together with imaging for intrinsic optical signals, intracellular calcium ions (Ca(2+)), time-lapse video, and confocal microscopy, to investigate action potential-induced nonsynaptic release of this neurotransmitter. ATP release from cultured embryonic dorsal root ganglion axons persisted when bafilomycin or botulinum toxin was used to block vesicular rele

SUBMITTER: Fields RD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5023281 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature