The long-term objectives of this proposal are: a) to characterize the electrical membrane properties and morphology of lamina I neurons in the subnucleus caudalis of the trigeminal sensory nuclear complex, b) to determine the synaptic responses of these neurons to activation of trigeminal afferent inputs, c) to examine how selective interference with inhibitory neurotransmitter receptors alters the synaptic responses of lamina I neurons. To achieve these objectives, various intracellular recording and histochemical techniques will be used to study the membrane properties, synaptic responses and morphology of trigeminal neurons in the horizontal slice preparation of the guinea pig brainstem. Hypotheses to be tested include: 1) high frequency stimulation of trigeminal afferents produces slow, neuropeptide-mediated excitatory potentials in subnucleus caudalis lamina I neurons 2) the substance P-mediated slow excitatory potentials are evoked via the NK1 tachykinin receptor subtype 3) paroxysmal discharges may be evoked in lamina I neurons following blockade of the GABA(Beta)-receptor subtype. The proposed studies will serve as a basis for the in depth analysis of signal transmission in the trigeminal system. The obtained knowledge can subsequently be used to provide a scientific basis for the complete understanding and treatment of debilitating conditions such as myofacial pain and trigeminal neuralgia which are of major clinical significance in dentistry.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Dental & Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)
Type
Small Research Grants (R03)
Project #
5R03DE010271-02
Application #
2131199
Study Section
NIDCR Special Grants Review Committee (DSR)
Project Start
1993-02-15
Project End
1996-02-14
Budget Start
1994-02-15
Budget End
1996-02-14
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
1994
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of California Los Angeles
Department
Dentistry
Type
Schools of Dentistry
DUNS #
119132785
City
Los Angeles
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
90095
Szucs, P; Polgar, E; Spigelman, I et al. (1999) Neurokinin-1 receptor expression in dorsal root ganglion neurons of young rats. J Peripher Nerv Syst 4:270-8