Hi!
I've recorded from neurons in the hypothalamus with DNQX and Picrotoxin in my aCSF bath with the purpose of investigating signalling pathways (using HFS).
To get the most from one cell, I've also recorded Action Potentials in I clamp, using depolarizing steps. In this way, I've manipulated the membrane potential and triggered APs to fire.
Because these are not spontaneous or evoked inhibitory or excitatory currents, but are action potentials instead, can I pool cells that had been exposed to DNQX and Picrotoxin together for data analysis?
Any input is welcome.
Thank you,
Tenea
Hi Tenea Welsh ,
If I understood well and in my opinion, for the purpose of statistical analysis and publication, you should perform separate analysis for those neurons treated with picrotoxin (as the GABA antagonist) and those treated with DNQX (as the AMPA antagonist). Although APs seem somehow identical and seemingly inconsequential in some experiments, the mechanism of action and their role in generation and propagation of APs and then fEPSPs or IPSPs are rather different in terms of channel activity and resultant synaptic activity. In particular when you use two antagonists which act differently and on different receptors.
You may analyze the recording and stimulation response of both separately and then compare them against each other though the later depends mainly on your setup, hypothesis/goal and recording/stimulation parameters. This can provide a better and conclusive insight regarding your common goal for different types of receptors and treatments too.
NO. If the NT is opening a current whose reversal potential is similar to membrane potential you would see no EPSP or IPSP, but have significant changes in excitability of the cell because of the change in input resistance.
Regards
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