[PDF][PDF] A molecular component of the arterial baroreceptor mechanotransducer

HA Drummond, MP Price, MJ Welsh, FM Abboud - Neuron, 1998 - cell.com
HA Drummond, MP Price, MJ Welsh, FM Abboud
Neuron, 1998cell.com
Baroreceptor nerve endings detect acute fluctuations in arterial pressure. We tested the
hypothesis that members of the DEG/ENaC family of cation channels, which are responsible
for touch sensation in Caenorhabditis elegans, may be components of the baroreceptor
mechanosensor. We found the γ subunit of ENaC localized to the site of
mechanotransduction in baroreceptor nerve terminals innervating the aortic arch and carotid
sinus. A functional role for DEG/ENaC members was suggested by blockade of baroreceptor …
Abstract
Baroreceptor nerve endings detect acute fluctuations in arterial pressure. We tested the hypothesis that members of the DEG/ENaC family of cation channels, which are responsible for touch sensation in Caenorhabditis elegans, may be components of the baroreceptor mechanosensor. We found the γ subunit of ENaC localized to the site of mechanotransduction in baroreceptor nerve terminals innervating the aortic arch and carotid sinus. A functional role for DEG/ENaC members was suggested by blockade of baroreceptor nerve activity and baroreflex control of blood pressure by an amiloride analog that inhibits DEG/ENaC channels. These data suggest that ENaC subunits may be components of the baroreceptor mechanotransducer and pave the way to a better definition of mechanisms responsible for blood pressure regulation and hypertension.
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