synchronization neuron brain seizure gap junction

Modification of the strength of electrical synapses was initially reported as a result of the action of neurotransmitter modulators, such as dopamine, which also modulates chemical synapses and neuronal excitability. Modifications of synaptic strength are thought to underlie important functional processes, including learning and memory.

Like chemical synapses, electrical synapses can vary their gain. Both gap junctions between neurons and electrical transmission have been identified in a still-increasing number of systems and brain areas, reinforcing the notion that electrical synapses contribute vitally to information processing across the brain. Electrical synapses in most mature mammalian neuronal systems are composed of connexin36 (Cx36) and connect, amongst many cell types, GABAergic neurons of similar biochemical subtype, which are widespread. These channels form a physical connection between cells, allowing ionic current to flow directly between coupled neurons. Electrical transmission is supported by gap junctions, structures that are formed by plaques of paired and docked connexin-formed hemichannel pores in apposed neuronal cell membranes. Conclusions These data suggest that mefloquine at low doses might be eliciting some anticonvulsant effects when is systemically administered to rats.The functions of electrical synapses have recently been of increasing interest within the neuroscience community. However, this gap junction blocker significantly decreased the duration of the tonic hindlimb extension induced by the acute electroshock. For the maximal electroshock model, mefloquine did not change the occurrence of tonic hindlimb extension. Besides, mefloquine significantly modified the total spectral power as well as the duration, amplitude and frequency of the epileptiform activity induced by pentylenetetrazole. In the control group, none of the rats survived after the generalized tonic-clonic seizures induced by pentylenetetrazole, but survival was improved by mefloquine. However, the incidence of seizures induced by pentylenetetrazole significantly decreased in the groups administered systematically with 40 and 80 mg/kg of mefloquine. Results All the control rats presented generalized tonic-clonic seizures after the administration of pentylenetetrazole. For this reason, the aim of this study was to analyze the effects of the systemic administration of mefloquine on tonic-clonic seizures induced by two acute models such as pentylenetetrazole and maximal electroshock.

Enhanced electrical coupling mediated by gap junctions is an underlying mechanism involved in the generation and maintenance of seizures. Background Mefloquine can cross the blood–brain barrier and block the gap junction intercellular communication in the brain.

Synchronization neuron brain seizure gap junction