The development of neuromodulatory systems and the maturation of motor patterns in amphibian tadpoles

David L. McLean, Simon D. Merrywest, Keith T. Sillar*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

48 Scopus citations

Abstract

The relative simplicity of the amphibian tadpole nervous system has been utilised as a model for the mechanisms underlying the generation and development of vertebrate locomotion. In this paper, we review evidence on the role of descending brainstem projections in the maturation and intrinsic modulation of tadpole spinal motor networks. Three transmitter systems that have been investigated utilise the biogenic amines serotonin (5HT) and noradrenaline (NA) and the inhibitory amino acid γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The distribution, development and spinal targets of these systems will be reviewed. More recent data on the role of nitric oxide (NO) will also be discussed. This ubiquitous gaseous signalling molecule is known to play a crucial role in the developing nervous system, but until recently, had not been directly implicated in the brain regions involved in motor control. NO appears to be produced by three homologous brainstem clusters in the developing motor networks of two closely related amphibian species, Xenopus laevis and Rana temporaria but, surprisingly, it plays contrasting roles in these species. Given the presumed co-localisation and interaction of nitric oxide with conventional neurotransmitters, we discuss the potential relationship of nitrergic neurons with 5HT, NA and GABA in these amphibian models.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)595-603
Number of pages9
JournalBrain Research Bulletin
Volume53
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 15 2000

Funding

Our work is currently supported by the Wellcome Trust and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC). D.L.M and S.D.M are BBSRC research students.

Keywords

  • Amines
  • Brainstem
  • GABA
  • Locomotion
  • Modulation
  • Nitric oxide

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Neuroscience

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'The development of neuromodulatory systems and the maturation of motor patterns in amphibian tadpoles'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this