Abstract
Here we present some of the key important discoveries made with the opener neuromuscular (NMJ) preparation of crustaceans and illustrate that there is still much to learn from this model preparation. In understanding the history one can appreciate why even today this NMJ still offers a rich playground to address questions regarding pre- and post-synaptic function and plasticity. The viability and ease of access to the terminal for intracellular as well as extracellular electrophysiology and imaging are significant advantages. The mechanisms behind the modulation of vesicular kinetics and fusion within the high- and low-output terminals are begging for investigation. The preparation also offers a testable model system for computational assessments and manipulations to examine key variables in theoretical models of synaptic function, for example calcium dynamics during short-term facilitation. The synaptic complexity of active zone and statistical nature of quantal release is also an open area for future investigation both experimentally and computationally.
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
11-9-2009
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
http://dx.doi.org/10.3791/1595
Repository Citation
Cooper, Ann S. and Cooper, Robin L., "Historical View and Physiology Demonstration at the NMJ of the Crayfish Opener Muscle" (2009). Biology Faculty Publications. 78.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/biology_facpub/78
Notes/Citation Information
Published in Journal of Visualized Experiments, v. 33, e1595, p. 1-13.
Copyright © 2009 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial License.