P2X7 receptors are members of the ATP-gated cationic channel family with a preferential
localization at the microglial cells, the resident macrophages of the brain. However,
these receptors are also present at neuroglia (astrocytes, oligodendrocytes) although
at a considerably lower density. They mediate necrosis/apoptosis by the release of
pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines, reactive oxygen species (ROS) as well as
the excitotoxic (glio)transmitters glutamate and ATP. Besides mediating cell damage
i.e., superimposed upon chronic neurodegenerative processes in Alzheimer’s Disease,
Parkinson’s Disease, multiple sclerosis, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, they may also
participate in neuroglial signaling to neurons under conditions of high ATP concentrations
during any other form of neuroinflammation/neurodegeneration. It is a pertinent open
question whether P2X7Rs are localized on neurons, or whether only neuroglia/microglia
possess this receptor-type causing indirect effects by releasing the above-mentioned
signaling molecules. We suggest as based on molecular biology and functional evidence
that neurons are devoid of P2X7Rs although the existence of neuronal P2X7Rs cannot
be excluded with absolute certainty.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:DRESDEN/oai:qucosa:de:qucosa:84351 |
| Date | 28 March 2023 |
| Creators | Zhao, Ya-Fei, Tang, Yong, Illes, Peter |
| Publisher | Frontiers Research Foundation |
| Source Sets | Hochschulschriftenserver (HSSS) der SLUB Dresden |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion, doc-type:article, info:eu-repo/semantics/article, doc-type:Text |
| Rights | info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess |
| Relation | 1662-5099, 641570 |
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