Subcellular mechanisms of area postrema activation

1. The present paper reviews some of the recent studies regarding the cellular mechanims regulating area postrema (AP) neuronal activity. 2. The calcium currents involved in activation and regulation of AP neuronal activity most likely belong to the Q- and R-family of calcium channels. 3. Angiotensin II increases AP activity by facilitating inward calcium currents and inhibiting calcium-activated potassium currents. 4. The heterogeneity observed regarding responsiveness to glutamate and 5-hydroxytryptamine and peptides may reflect multiple populations of AP neurons, each with specific roles in the integration of afferent and peptidergic neurotransmission.