Computational simulations of dopaminergic varicosities suggest two sources of DOPAC rather than two populations of dopamine storage vesicles

• DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-8-s2-p112
• Publication Date: 2007-07-06T18:15:53Z
• Authors: Lane J Wallace; Rachel M Hughes
• Keywords: Compartment (ship); Vesicular monoamine transporter

Results from several different experimental paradigms have been interpreted as supporting the concept that two populations of dopamine storage vesicles exist in nerve terminals dopaminergic neurons. The goal this work is to develop a computer simulation model varicosity provides plausible quantitative description these and possible set rules for movement between vesicles. We first looked at how well one compartment accurate simulations published data. allocates among three compartments: vesicles, cytosol, extracellular. Dopamine moves extracellular (exocytosis), cytosol (dopamine transporter), (vesicular monoamine transporter). Synthesis new molecules occurs cytosolic compartment, with entering compartment. Metabolism also fraction being metabolized DOPAC. With appropriate values all rate constants, successfully explains data purportedly stimulate neurons rates much faster than physiological. However, does not explain other support concept. Models vesicle compartments were evaluated ability data; however, none successful. An alternate was developed but addition synthetic process has branch point where newly synthesized either secreted space or converted DOPAC, which deposited into This regarding specific activity metabolites after injection labeled tyrosine varicosity, metabolite kinetics inhibition synthesis, preferential secretion dopamine. Thus, our suggests varicosities sources likely associated mitochondria complex.