Control of Neurohormone Release at Nerve Endings

神经科学中的一个基本问题是对神经末梢神经递质和神经激素释放的控制机制的描述(S)。这些机制对神经细胞交流和健康、正常运作的神经系统至关重要。虽然钙在释放中的作用的重要性已经得到很好的证实，但其作用的细节却知之甚少。本研究旨在定量研究钙电流与细胞内钙离子浓度之间的关系。此外，还将直接评估受体对钙电流的调节及其对细胞内钙水平的影响。电生理技术结合显微荧光分光光度法对钙离子敏感，荧光指示剂将用于监测细胞内钙离子水平。将开发技术，以允许同时监测单一末端的神经激素释放。这项研究将有助于更好地理解调节脊椎动物神经末梢释放神经激素的分子成分的性质和作用。

A fundamental problem in the neurosciences is the characterization of the mechanism(s) controlling the release of neurotransmitters and neurohormones at nerve endings. These mechanisms are crucial to nerve cell communication and to a healthy, functioning nervous system. Although the importance of calcium's role in release has been well established, details in its action are poorly understood. This research project is designed to examine, quantitatively, the relationship between calcium currents and intracellular calcium concentrations. Moreover, receptor mediated regulation of the calcium current and its effect on intracellular calcium levels will be directly evaluated. Electrophysiological techniques combined with microspectrofluorometry of calcium sensitive, fluorescent indicators will be used to monitor intracellular calcium levels. Techniques will be developed to allow simultaneous monitoring of neurohormone release from single endings. This research will lead to a better understanding of the properties and actions of molecular components regulating neurohormone release from vertebrate nerve endings.