The Effect Manipulating AMPK Activity has on Ouabain-Induced Spreading Depression in Fed and Starved Locusta Migratoria.
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Authors
Mangulins, Rebecca
Date
2015-10-03
Type
thesis
Language
eng
Keyword
Biology , Neurophysiology
Alternative Title
Abstract
Neurons, though highly metabolically active, have a poor capacity for nutrient storage and are sensitive to energy fluctuations. One mechanism for maintaining energetic homeostasis involves activation of the heterotrimeric AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a cell- autonomous sensor to energetic changes regulated by ATP to AMP ratios. Starvation, which reduces nutrient availability, has been shown to decrease susceptibility to spreading depression (SD) in Locusta migratoria. Although AMPK activation is thought to be involved in this phenomenon, its presence has not yet been confirmed in the locust. In my thesis I established that AMPK is present in locust neural tissue, and that starvation increases its activation. I also investigated the effects of manipulating AMPK activity, via pharmacological agents and RNA interference (RNAi), on ouabain-induced SD in fed and starved locusts. Application of 5x10-5 M A-769662, a potent AMPK activator, did not have an effect on susceptibility to or recovery from ouabain-induced SD, in either fed or starved animals. Increasing the concentration of A-769662 to 10-4 M also yielded no significance. However, injecting AMPK dsRNA reduced the number of preparations that displayed SD-like events. This suggests that RNAi-mediated downregulation of AMPK decreased susceptibility to SD. Overall, I provide evidence of AMPK’s involvement in potassium ion homeostasis, which may further our understanding of SD and its effects within the nervous system.
Description
Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2015-09-26 20:09:47.045
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This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.
ProQuest PhD and Master's Theses International Dissemination Agreement
Intellectual Property Guidelines at Queen's University
Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
Creative Commons - Attribution - CC BY
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.