G-protein-gated inward rectifier K+ channel proteins (GIRK1) are present in the soma and dendrites as well as in nerve terminals of specific neurons in the brain

摘要: G-protein-gated inward rectifier potassium (GIRK) channels are coupled to numerous neurotransmitter receptors in the brain and can play important roles modulating neuronal function, depending on their localization a given neuron. Site-directed antibodies extreme C terminus of GIRK1 (or KGA1), recently cloned component GIRK channels, have been used determine relative expression levels distribution protein different regions rat by immunoblot immunohistochemical techniques. We report that is expressed prominently olfactory bulb, hippocampus, dentate gyrus, neocortex, thalamus, cerebellar cortex, several stem nuclei. In addition expected somas dendrites, where may mediate postsynaptic inhibition, proteins were also found axons terminal fields, suggesting modulate presynaptic events. Furthermore, either somatodendritic or axonal-terminal neurons varied regions, which would imply distinct functions these populations. Particularly prominent staining cortical barrels layer IV absence this with unilateral kainate lesions suggest thalamocortical nerve terminals actions mu opiate receptors.