Expression of the γ2-subunit distinguishes synaptic and extrasynaptic GABA(A) receptors in NG2 cells of the hippocampus.

ABSTRACT: NG2 cells are equipped with transmitter receptors and receive direct synaptic input from glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons. The functional impact of these neuron-glia synapses is still unclear. Here, we combined functional and molecular techniques to analyze properties of GABA(A) receptors in NG2 cells of the juvenile mouse hippocampus. GABA activated slowly desensitizing responses in NG2 cells, which were mimicked by muscimol and inhibited by bicuculline. To elucidate the subunit composition of the receptors we tested its pharmacological properties. Coapplication of pentobarbital, benzodiazepines, and zolpidem all significantly increased the GABA-evoked responses. The presence of small tonic currents indicated the presence of extrasynaptic GABA(A) receptors. To further analyze the subun

SUBMITTER: Passlick S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6794062 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature