SK channel inhibition mediates the initiation and amplitude modulation of synchronized burst firing in the spinal cord.

ABSTRACT: Burst firing in motoneurons represents the basis for generating meaningful movements. Neuromodulators and inhibitory receptor blocker cocktails have been used for years to induce burst firing in vitro; however, the ionic mechanisms in the motoneuron membrane that contribute to burst initiation and amplitude modulation are not fully understood. Small conductance Ca²⁺-activated potassium (SK) channels regulate excitatory inputs and firing output of motoneurons and interneurons and therefore, are a candidate for mediating bursting behavior. The present study examines the role of SK channels in the generation of synchronized bursting using an in vitro spinal cord preparation from adult mice. Our results show that SK channel inhibition is required for both initiation and amplitude mo

SUBMITTER: Mahrous AA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5494358 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature