The expression of α2A-adrenoceptors in the calcium-binding protein immunoreactive interneurons in rat prefrontal cortex

Sheng Li Xue Bao. 2014 Oct 25;66(5):537-44.

Abstract

The α2A adrenoceptors (α2A-ARs) are the most common adrenergic receptor subtype found in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). It is generally accepted that stimulation of postsynaptic α2A-ARs on pyramidal neurons are key to PFC functions, such as working memory. However, the expression of α2A-ARs in interneurons is largely unknown. In the present study using double-labeling immunofluorencence technique, we investigated the expression of α2A-ARs in major types of rat PFC interneurons expressing calcium-binding proteins parvalbumin (PV), calretinin (CR), and calbindin (CB). Our data demonstrated that α2A-ARs are highly expressed in calcium-binding protein immunoreactive interneurons of rat PFC, suggesting that stimulation of α2A-ARs may alter neural networks comprising pyramidal neurons and interneurons, thereby exerting a beneficial effect on PFC cognitive functions. The present study provides the morphological basis for a potential mechanism by which stimulation of α2A-ARs induces cognitive improvement.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calbindin 2 / metabolism*
  • Calbindins / metabolism*
  • Interneurons / metabolism*
  • Parvalbumins / metabolism*
  • Prefrontal Cortex / cytology*
  • Rats
  • Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha-2 / metabolism*

Substances

  • Calbindin 2
  • Calbindins
  • Parvalbumins
  • Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha-2