Using this system, we have demonstrated that, in the presence of NGF, stimulation of a neuron leads to a greater postsynaptic response of a connected myocyte. We have demonstrated that NGF acts presynaptically to mediate the level of synaptic transmission between the neuron and its target. The finding that NGF acutely and reversibly modulates synaptic transmission between sympathetic neurons and myocytes raises the question of how synaptic activity, NGF and NGF receptors interact to lead to long term changes in synaptic function. Ongoing investigations in the laboratory are also addressing the developmental role of NGF in the establishment of peripheral synaptic connections. We have found that NGF acts as one signal in a series of interactions between neurons and myocytes resulting in the development of sympathetic presynaptic machinery.
Sympathetic neuroblasts undergo a developmental switch in trophic dependence.
MAH cells and the development of rat sympathetic neurons. Nerve growth factor modulates synaptic transmission between sympathetic neurons and cardiac myocytes. Restriction of developmental potential during divergence of the enteric and sympathetic neuronal lineages. Nerve growth factor collaborates with myocyte-derived factors to promote development of presynaptic sites in cultured sympathetic neurons. Developmental regulation of GDNF response and receptor expression in the enteric nervous system.