A "receptor" for protons in small neurons of trigeminal ganglia: possible role in nociception

Neurosci Lett. 1981 Jul 17;24(3):243-6. doi: 10.1016/0304-3940(81)90164-6.

Abstract

Neurons of the rat's trigeminal ganglion were enzymatically isolated and investigated under the conditions of intracellular perfusion and voltage clamp. Recently discovered proton-activated sodium conductance was found in about half of the neurons. The majority of these proton-sensitive neurons (74%) were less than 26 micrometer in diameter, whereas most of the proton-insensitive cells (75%) were larger than 26 micrometer in diameter. The possibility is discussed that the small proton-sensitive neurons may participate in nociception.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Kinetics
  • Neurons / physiology*
  • Nociceptors / physiology*
  • Protons*
  • Rats
  • Sodium / metabolism
  • Trigeminal Ganglion / physiology*
  • Trigeminal Nerve / physiology*

Substances

  • Protons
  • Sodium