Background noise in neurotransmission helps keep nerve connections young
Neurons communicate through rapid electrical signals that regulate the release of neurotransmitters, the brain s chemical messengers. Once transmitted across a neuron, electrical signals cause the juncture with another neuron, known as a synapse, to release droplets filled with neurotransmitters that pass the information on to the next neuron. This type of neuron-to-neuron communication is known as evoked neurotransmission.
However, some neurotransmitter-packed droplets are released at the synapse even in the absence of electrical impulses. These miniature release events or minis have long been regarded as background noise.
Brian McCabe, Director of the Laboratory of Neural Genetics and Disease and a Professor in the EPFL Brain Mind Institute
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IMAGE: Neuronal cell line (mHypoE-N41) transfected with NPY-mCherry (in red) and stained with phalloidin to label the actin cytoskeleton (in green). In this cell TGR5 was activated by its selective agonist. view more
Credit: EPFL
Our brain is usually well protected from uncontrolled influx of molecules from the periphery thanks to the blood-brain barrier, a physical seal of cells lining the blood vessel walls. The hypothalamus, however, is a notable exception to this rule. Characterized by leaky blood vessels, this region, located at the base of the brain, is exposed to a variety of circulating bioactive molecules. This anatomical feature also determines its function as a rheostat involved in the coordination of energy sensing and feeding behavior.