Comparison of ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus growth hormone-releasing hormone neuron counterregulatory neurochemical marker gene expression in young adult versus middle-aged male and female rats.

Rami Shrestha, Subash Sapkota, Karen P Briski

School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, United States.School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, United States. · pubmed

Paper

Abstract

Aging impairs glucose counterregulatory function by unknown mechanisms. Ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus/dorsomedial division (VMNdm) growth hormone-releasing hormone (Ghrh) neurons control counterregulation through Ghrh-modulated discharge of structurally diverse co-expressed neurochemicals. Current research used gene silencing and single-cell laser-catapult-microdissection/multiplex qPCR tools to investigate whether aging alters eu- and/or hypoglycemic patterns of co-produced counterregulatory-inhibiting (γ-aminobutyric acid) or -stimulating (Ghrh; glutamate; nitric oxide) neurotransmitter marker genes in this cell population. Data document basal Ghrh mRNA diminution in older, i.e., middle-aged rats of each sex and age-specific Ghrh transcriptional responses to hypoglycemia in females. Older rats showed Ghrh repression of glutamate decarboxylase

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Research summary

The paper investigates the effects of aging on gene expression related to glucose counterregulation in specific neurons. This research is relevant as it explores underlying mechanisms of aging that may contribute to metabolic dysfunction, which is a significant aspect of longevity research.

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