Abstract
In the present paper we consider a new type of mechanism by which neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) regulates the properties of peripheral nerve fibers myelin. Our data show the importance of the relationship between the changes in the number of Schwann cell (SC) acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) and the axon excitation (different intervals between action potentials (APs)). Using Raman spectroscopy, an effect of activation of SC AChRs on the myelin membrane fluidity was investigated. It was found, that ACh stimulates an increase in lipid ordering degree of the myelin lipids, thus providing evidence for specific role of the “axon-SC” interactions at the axon excitation. It was proposed, that during the axon excitation, the SC membrane K+- depolarization and the Ca2+—influx led to phospholipase activation or exocytosis of intracellular membrane vesicles and myelin structure reorganization.
Highlights
It is known, that myelin sheath of peripheral nerve fibers consists of multiple layers of Schwann cell (SC) membranes, wrapped around the axon [1, 2]
The Schwann cell 3H- bungarotoxin and 3H- acetylcholine binding during axon stimulation with different number and interval between the conducting action potentials series along the axon
We have found that non myelin nerve fibers 3H- bungarotoxin binding could be specific—from five to ten minutes and for myelin nerve fibers—up to hour [6,7,8]
Summary
That myelin sheath of peripheral nerve fibers consists of multiple layers of Schwann cell (SC) membranes, wrapped around the axon [1, 2]. Emerging data suggests that specific interactions between axon and SC govern neuronal function [1]. Villegas with colleagues was the first who investigated this type of signaling on nerve fibers of invertebrates [4]. They demonstrated the presence of acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) on SC membrane, exposed especially to intercellular space between axon and the surrounding SC [5]. The number of AChRs was shown to change during the nerve fibers function [7]. This study continued an investigation of the changes of SC AChRs number in regulation of the myelin membrane fluidity
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