Synaptic activity mediates death of hypoxic neurons

Science. 1983 Apr 29;220(4596):536-7. doi: 10.1126/science.6836300.

Abstract

Cultured hippocampal neurons, when exposed to cyanide or an anoxic atmosphere in the early stages of differentiation, were not visibly affected. However, neurons in the mature cultures died when exposed to cyanide or anoxia. Cell death could be prevented by treatment with magnesium, which eliminates synaptic activity. These observations suggest that damage in hypoxic neurons is mediated by synaptic activity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Action Potentials / drug effects
  • Animals
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Hippocampus / cytology
  • Hypoxia / metabolism*
  • Hypoxia / physiopathology
  • Magnesium / pharmacology
  • Magnesium Chloride
  • Membrane Potentials / drug effects
  • Neurons / metabolism
  • Neurons / physiology*
  • Rats
  • Sodium Cyanide / pharmacology
  • Synapses / drug effects
  • Synapses / physiology*

Substances

  • Magnesium Chloride
  • Magnesium
  • Sodium Cyanide