Power Spectral Density Analysis of Purkinje Cell Tonic and Burst Firing Patterns From a Rat Model of Ataxia and Riluzole Treated

摘要

Introduction:Purkinje Cell (PC) output displays a complex firing pattern consisting of high frequency sodium spikes and low frequency calcium spikes, and disruption in this firing behavior may contribute to cerebellar ataxia. Riluzole, neuroprotective agent, has been demonstrated to have neuroprotective effects in cerebellar ataxia. Here, the spectral analysis of PCs firing in control, 3-acetylpyridine (3-AP), neurotoxin agent, treated alone and riluzole plus 3-AP treated were investigated to determine changes in the firing properties. Difference in the power spectra of tonic and burst firing was assessed. Furthermore, the role of calcium-activated potassium channels in the power spectra was evaluated.