A mechanistic model of a PDGFRα(+) cell.
A novel platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha-positive cell (PDGFRα(+)) has recently been identified as part of the purinergic inhibitory neural control mechanism in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The mechanism through which PDGFRα(+) cells mediate GI muscle relaxation has been found to be associated with the purine receptors P2Y1 and apamin-sensitive SK3 channels that are highly expressed in these cells. This study aims to develop a mechanistic model elucidating a proposed mechanism through which PDGFRα(+) cells contribute to purinergic inhibitory neuromuscular transmission. In accordance with recent experimental findings, the model describes how the binding of neurotransmitters, released from enteric neurons, triggers the release of Ca(2+) from the endoplasmic reticulum in the PDGFRα(+) cells, and how this subsequently leads to large amplitude transient outward currents, which in turn hyperpolarize the cell. The model has been validated against experimental recordings and good agreement was found under normal and pharmacologically-altered conditions. This model demonstrates the feasibility of the proposed mechanism and provides a basis for understanding the mechanism underlying purinergic control of colonic motility.
['Yeoh|Jing Wui|JW|', 'Corrias|Alberto|A|', 'Buist|Martin L|ML|']
D002118:Calcium D041981:Gastrointestinal Tract D006801:Humans D008954:Models, Biological D009126:Muscle Relaxation D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents D020796:Receptor, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor alpha D058472:Receptors, Purinergic P2Y1
SK3 channels Fibroblast-like cells Mathematical model P2Y(1) receptors Purinergic inhibitory neurotransmission