P2X2R purinergic receptor subunit mRNA and protein are expressed by all hypothalamic hypocretin/orexin neurons.

摘要: Neurophysiologic data suggest that orexin neurons are directly excited by ATP through purinergic receptors (P2XR). Anatomical studies, though reporting P2XR in the hypothalamus, did not describe it perifornical hypothalamic area, where orexinergic located. Here we report presence of P2X2R subunit rat hypothalamus and demonstrate express P2X2R. Double immunohistochemistry showed virtually all orexin-immunoreactive also immunoreactive, whereas 80% P2X2R-immunoreactive positive. Triple-labeling experiments, combining fluorescence situ hybridization for mRNA P2X2R/orexin double immunofluorescence, confirmed these findings. In addition, demonstrated is localized cellular processes neurons. The present support neurophysiologic findings on modulation function provide direct evidence entire population expresses a subtype, namely, Thus, transmission might intervene modulating key functions known to be controlled system, such as feeding behavior arousal. J. Comp. Neurol. 498:58–67, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.