A glial ClC Cl^- channel mediates nose touch responses in C. elegans.

ABSTRACT: In touch receptors, glia and accessory cells play a key role in mechanosensation. However, the mechanisms underlying such regulation are poorly understood. We show, for the first time, that the chloride channel CLH-1 is needed in glia of C. elegans nose touch receptors for touch responses and for regulation of excitability. Using in vivo Ca²⁺ and Cl^- imaging, behavioral assays, and combined genetic and pharmacological manipulations, we show that CLH-1 mediates Cl^- flux needed for glial GABA inhibition of ASH sensory neuron function and for regulation of cyclic AMP levels in ASH neurons. Finally, we show that the rat ClC-2 channel rescues the clh-1 nose-touch-insensitive phenotype, underscoring conservation of function across species. Our work identifies a g

SUBMITTER: Fernandez-Abascal J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8813913 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature