Anatomical Markers of Activity in Neuroendocrine Systems: Are we all ‘Fos-ed out’?

摘要: It has now been nearly 15 years since the immediate early gene, c-fos, and its protein product, Fos, were introduced as tools for determining activity changes within neurones of nervous system. In ensuing years, this approach was applied to neuroendocrine study with success. With it have come advances in our understanding which respond various stimuli how other central system components interact neurones. Use combined tract-tracing approaches, well double-labelling Fos transmitter markers, added characterization circuits. The delineation signal transduction cascades that induce expression led establishment relationship between neurone firing expression. Importantly, we can appreciate is often, but not always, associated increased neuronal vice versa. There are remaining gaps To date, knowledge what does after expressed still limited. transience stimulation (especially if stimulus persistent) complicates design experiments assess function makes little value a marker long-term activity. regard, alternative approaches must be sought. Useful employed date monitor include examination (i) intermediates (e.g. phosphorylated CREB); (ii) transcriptional/translational heteronuclear RNA, messenger RNA (mRNA), prohormones); (iii) receptor translocation. Another capitalizes on fact many systems show striking stimulus-transcription coupling regulation their or synthetic enzymes. Together, move into 21st Century, use multiple will further these important systems.