Neurotransmitter signaling between axons and Schwann cells in mammalian peripheral nerves.

• Applicant: Dr. Maria Kukley
• Subject Area: Molecular Biology and Physiology of Neurons and Glial Cells
• Term: from 2012 to 2015
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 222128866

Axons within the peripheral nerves are in intimate contact with Schwann cells, and evidence is accumulating that axonal signals play important role in the developmental program and function of Schwann cells. Research on this topic has given much attention to molecules involved in direct contact between axons and Schwann cells. Much less is known about neuron-glia signalling by diffusible substances and its possible functional role in the crosstalk between axons and Schwann cells in the peripheral nerves. Few studies so far have suggested that neurotransmitters glutamate and/or acetylcholine are possible candidates for this type of communication. In this project we explore glutamate and acetylcholine release from axons in the mammalian peripheral nerves in situ, and investigate role of Schwann cells during the release process. We established a new preparation of the live sciatic nerve slices where contact between Schwann cells and axons should be largely preserved. We use this preparation, patch-clamp technique, axonal stimulation and 2-photon imaging to study expression and activation of glutamate and acetylcholine receptors on Schwann cells at different stages of development. We investigate properties of neurotransmitter release from axons in the nerve, and neurotransmitter-mediated communication between axons and Schwann cell lineage.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants