Mechanism of the Spinal Oxygen Sensors

Hypoxia (deprivation of adequate oxygen supply to the body) associated with cardiorespiratory crisis initiates vigorous respiratory and sympathetic “fight/flight” responses. The carotid bodies (CB) are the main respiratory oxygen sensors but without their influence sympathetic responses persist, suggesting a cardiovascular-specific oxygen chemoreceptor. Recently we discovered that neurons within the thoracic region of the spinal cord (the preganglionic sympathetic neurons – intermediolateral nucleus – IML) are highly responsive to oxygen. Therefore we named those neurons: Spinal Oxygen Sensors (SOS)
However, the cellular mechanisms of oxygen sensing used by the SOS are unknown. Therefore, the purpose of this project is to investigate the cellular signaling cascade that gives rise to their oxygen sensitivity. TO BE CONT’D

Faculty Supervisor:

Richard Wilson

Student:

Partner:

Murayama Medical Center;Showa University

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

University of Calgary

Program: