Abstract

Satellite glial cells (SGCs) surround the cell bodies of neurons of the peripheral nervous system, including those of the sensory ganglia. Their close apposition to the neuronal soma allows for bi-directional communication between neurons and SGCs, which are thought to regulate neuronal activity. After nerve injury, SGCs in the dorsal root ganglia contribute to neuropathic pain. Although the mechanisms are not fully understood, SGCs show increased coupling via gap junctions, and communicate with the neuron via bi-directional purinergic signaling after nerve injury. The increased coupling between SGCs and neurons may have implications for chronic pain following peripheral nerve injury. In vivo studies suggest that injury through the administration of capsaicin to the sensory nerve endings causes SGCs to be activated and proliferate. We have shown that capsaicin treatment in an in vitro co-culture of sensory neurons and SGCs increased the expression of the proliferation marker, Ki-67 in the glia. Here, we examine whether purinergic signaling plays a role in the promotion of SGC proliferation.

Thesis Completion

2017

Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Lambert, Stephen

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Medicine

Degree Program

Biomedical Sciences

Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus-only Access

3 years

Release Date

May 2020

Download

Included in

Cell Biology Commons

Share

COinS