What is the difference between NANC transmitter and co-transmitter?

In summary, co-transmitters are substances released alongside the main transmitter in neural communication. They are believed to have a modulating function and are released with low-frequency signaling. In dopaminergic neurons, glutamate has been observed as a co-transmitter. Their specific functions are still being researched and may vary depending on the type of neuron.
  • #1
jayadds
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Hi all,

I was just wondering, what is the difference between non-adrenergic non-cholinergic (NANC) transmitter and co-transmitter in the synaptic communication between neurons? In particular, what are their different functions?

Many thanks,
Jay
 
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  • #2
jayadds said:
Hi all,

I was just wondering, what is the difference between non-adrenergic non-cholinergic (NANC) transmitter and co-transmitter in the synaptic communication between neurons? In particular, what are their different functions?

Many thanks,
Jay

Co-transmitters are thought to have a modulating function on the neuron-specific transmitter. In some cases the co-transmitter only is released with low-frequency signaling. With higher frequency signaling the main transmitter is also released. I'm not sure why you exclude cholinergic and adrenergic neurons, but in dopaminergic neurons, glutamate has been observed as a co-transmitter. The actions of dopaminergic neurons terminating in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) are described in the linked article (see conclusion).

http://jgp.rupress.org/content/139/1/93.full
 
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1. What is a NANC transmitter?

A NANC (non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic) transmitter is a type of neurotransmitter that is neither adrenaline (adrenergic) nor acetylcholine (cholinergic). It is often found in the autonomic nervous system and is responsible for regulating functions such as digestion, heart rate, and blood pressure.

2. What is a co-transmitter?

A co-transmitter is a type of neurotransmitter that works alongside another neurotransmitter to send a signal between neurons. It can enhance or inhibit the effects of the primary neurotransmitter and help regulate the strength and duration of the signal.

3. What is the main difference between NANC transmitter and co-transmitter?

The main difference between a NANC transmitter and a co-transmitter is their function. NANC transmitters are a specific type of neurotransmitter that is not adrenaline or acetylcholine, while co-transmitters work alongside other neurotransmitters to regulate the strength and duration of a signal.

4. Can a neurotransmitter be both a NANC transmitter and a co-transmitter?

Yes, a neurotransmitter can have both NANC and co-transmitter functions. For example, nitric oxide can function as a NANC transmitter in the autonomic nervous system and as a co-transmitter in the central nervous system.

5. How do NANC transmitters and co-transmitters affect the body differently?

NANC transmitters primarily regulate autonomic functions such as digestion and heart rate, while co-transmitters work alongside other neurotransmitters to regulate the strength and duration of a signal. Therefore, their effects on the body may differ depending on the specific neurotransmitter and its function.

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