PubMed · 12746548
Do we need zinc to think?
Abstract
Chelatable Zn(2+), which is found in the synaptic vesicles of certain glutamatergic neurons in several regions of the forebrain, is released during neuronal activity. Zn(2+) exhibits numerous effects on ligand-gated and voltage-dependent ion channels, and released Zn(2+) is therefore likely able to modulate synaptic transmission. The physiologically relevant actions of Zn(2+), however, have remained unclear. Recent research exploiting improved Zn(2+)-sensitive optical probes has suggested some intriguing effects for synaptically released Zn(2+), including heterosynaptic regulation of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor function, and a novel role as a trans-synaptic second messenger that may enter postsynaptic neurons to modulate various signal transduction pathways.
Explore related subjects
Keep this discovery
Explore connections, maps & timelines
Yang V Li, Christopher J Hough, John M Sarvey. 2003-05-13. Do we need zinc to think?. https://doi.org/10.1126/stke.2003.182.pe19
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.