Possible nicotinic receptor-mediated modulation of synaptic transmission in nucleus of the solitary tract

Tissue slices of rat nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) were analyzed by whole cell patch-clamp techniques to determine the presence and kinetics of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR)-mediated signal transduction. Whole cell patch-clamp analysis of whole cell currents in rat medullary NTS slices indicated the presence of nAChRs that possessed similar properties to neuronal nAChR. Furthermore, nAChR-mediated signal transduction from afferent nerves to neurons in the NTS involved the diffusion of acetylcholine.