Dendritic spines as basic functional units of neuronal integration

Article Abstract:

Two-photon microscopy images of dendritic spines confirmed that the spines have calcium channels and therefore are likely neuronal integration basic functional units. The images recorded stochastic failure stemming from calcium accumulations by synaptic stimulation and spontaneous events in isolated dendritic spines as well as the individual detection of pre- and postsynaptic activity in temporal coincidence. These findings call into question recent results that challenge the existence of individual calcium compartments on dendritic spines.

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Cyclic-nucleotide-gated channels mediate synaptic feedback by nitric oxide

Article Abstract:

Cyclic-nucleotide-gated (CNG) channels in the outer parts of vertebrate photoreceptors generate electrical signals as a response to changes in cyclic GMP concentrations during phototransduction. CNG channels were studied to determine whether they reside on cone terminals and if they regulate neurotransmitter release. Endogenous nitric oxide was found to modulate synapses between cones and horizontal cells, and CNG channels were found to occur in clusters on isolated cones, and a indirectly activated byS-nitrosocysteine (SNC).

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Analysis of calcium channels in single spines using optical fluctuation analysis

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Research is presented describing the study of syanptic receptors and role played by submicrometre precision in regulating growth.

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