GABAB receptors in Schwann cells influence proliferation and myelin protein expression

Valerio Magnaghi, Marinella Ballabio, Ilaria T R Cavarretta, Wolfgang Froestl, Jeremy J. Lambert, Ileana Zucchi, Roberto C. Melcangi

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    76 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    The location and the role of γ-aminobutyric acid type B (GABA B) receptors in the central nervous system have recently received considerable attention, whilst relatively little is known regarding the peripheral nervous system. In this regard, here we demonstrate for the first time that GABAB receptor isoforms [i.e. GABAB(1) and GABAB(2)] are specifically localized in the rat Schwann cell population of the sciatic nerve. Using the selective GABAB agonist [i.e. (-)-baclofen] and the antagonists (i.e. CGP 62349, CGP 56999 A, CGP 55845 A), such receptors are shown to be functionally active and negatively coupled to the adenylate cyclase system. Furthermore, exposure of cultured Schwann cells to (-)-baclofen inhibits their proliferation and reduces the synthesis of specific myelin proteins (i.e. glycoprotein Po, peripheral myelin protein 22, myelin-associated glycoprotein, connexin 32), providing evidence for a physiological role of GABAB receptors in the glial cells of the peripheral nervous system.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)2641-2649
    Number of pages9
    JournalEuropean Journal of Neuroscience
    Volume19
    Issue number10
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - May 2004

    Keywords

    • GABAB receptors
    • Myelin
    • Peripheral glia
    • Rat
    • Sciatic nerve

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • General Neuroscience

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'GABAB receptors in Schwann cells influence proliferation and myelin protein expression'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this