Coupling of neuronal function to oxygen and glucose metabolism through changes in neurotransmitter dynamics as revealed with aging, hypoglycemia, and hypoxia

Abstract

Normal brain function is tightly linked to adequate glucose and oxygen availability and to energy metabolism. This close coupling of metabolism to function is mediated, in part, through regulation of neurotransmitter dynamics. Metabolism may regulate neurotransmission by controlling synthesis and release of neurotransmitters or receptor interactions. Many of the effects of altered metabolism on neurotransmission are mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS) and calcium and are modified by lipids. The coupling is difficult to demonstrate under normal conditions. However, the importance of the tight link between metabolism neurotransmitter dynamics and neural function can be readily demonstrated with conditions that alter metabolism (e.g., hypoglycemia or hypoxia) or by normal aging. An understanding of these interactions will help our understanding of normal brain function as well as lead to the development of treatments for age-related neurodegenerative diseases. © 2007 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.