Distribution of alpha CDCP-immunoreactive neurons in the central nervous system of the snail Helix aspersa.

The modulatory effects of orexin B on the calcium channels activity in neuronal cells of Helix aspersa (garden snail)

Introduction: The functional effects of orexin-B on the calcium spikes and excitability of the neuronal soma membrane of garden snail, Helix aspersa were studied. Methods: Conventional intracellular recording, under the current clamp conditions was performed to examine the effects of orexin-B on the configuration and electrophysiological properties of calcium spikes. Results: Application o...

Electrophysiology and ionic movements in the central nervous system of the snail, Helix aspersa.

Characterization by immunocytochemistry of ionic channels in Helix aspersa suboesophageal brain ganglia neurons.

The aim of this work was to characterize several ionic channels in nervous cells of the suboesophageal visceral, left and right parietal, and left and right pleural brain ganglia complex of the snail Helix aspersa by immunocytochemistry. We have studied the immunostaining reaction for a wide panel of eleven polyclonal antibodies raised against mammal antigens as follows: voltage-gated-Na+ chann...

Electrophysiological investigation of the cellular effect of anethole, the chief constitute of anise, on F1 neuronal excitability in garden snail

Introduction: Anethole is the main constituent of Pimpinella anisum L. (anise), a herbaceous annual plant which has several therapeutic effects. In the folk medicine, anise is employed as an antiepileptic drug. Specifically, this study was focused on the cellular effect of anethole, an aromatic compound in essential oils from anise and camphor. Anethole has various physiological effects on t...

Neuroprotective effect of minocycline on PTZ-induced epileptiform activity and alterations of the shape of action potentials in snail neurons assessed by using intracellular recordings

Introduction: Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects 1-2% of the world population and about 30% of patients are resistant to antiepileptic drug therapy. Therefore, new treatment alternatives are needed. In the present study, the possible neuroprotective effect of minocycline against epileptiform activity induced by pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) was assessed. Methods: Conventional intra...