P2X(7) receptors in cerebral ischemia.

Abstract

Cerebral ischemia is one of the most common diseases resulting in death and disability in aged people. It leads immediately to rapid energy failure, ATP depletion, and ionic imbalance, which increase extracellular ATP levels and accordingly activate P2X7 receptors. These receptors are ATP-gated cation channels and widely distributed in nerve cells, especially in the immunocompetent cells of the brain. Currently, interest in the roles of P2X7 receptors in ischemic brain injury is growing. In this review, we discuss recent research progress on the actions of P2X7 receptors, their possible mechanisms in cerebral ischemia, and the potential therapeutic value of P2X7 receptor antagonists which may provide a new target both for clinical and for research purposes.

• Authors: Hui-Yu Bai, Ai-Ping Li
• Journal: Neuroscience bulletin (Neurosci Bull) Vol. 29 Issue 3 Pg. 390-8 (Jun 2013) ISSN: 1995-8218 [Electronic] Singapore
• PMID: 23640286 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)

Chemical References

• Receptors, Purinergic P2X7
• Adenosine Triphosphate
• Calcium

Topics

• Adenosine Triphosphate (metabolism)
• Animals
• Brain Ischemia (metabolism)
• Calcium (metabolism)
• Humans
• Neurons (metabolism, physiology)
• Receptors, Purinergic P2X7 (metabolism)