Thebromine Targets Adenosine Receptors to Control Hippocampal Neuronal Function and Damage.

Theobromine is a caffeine metabolite most abundant in dark chocolate, of which consumption is linked with a lower risk of cognitive decline. However, the mechanisms through which theobromine affects neuronal function remain ill-defined. Using electrophysiological recordings in mouse hippocampal synapses, we now characterized the impact of a realistic concentration of theobromine on synaptic transmission and plasticity.

Adenosine A receptors control synaptic remodeling in the adult brain.

The molecular mechanisms underlying circuit re-wiring in the mature brain remains ill-defined. An eloquent example of adult circuit remodelling is the hippocampal mossy fiber (MF) sprouting found in diseases such as temporal lobe epilepsy. The molecular determinants underlying this retrograde re-wiring remain unclear.

Adenosine A2A Receptors Contribute to the Radial Migration of Cortical Projection Neurons through the Regulation of Neuronal Polarization and Axon Formation.

Cortical interneurons born in the subpallium reach the cortex through tangential migration, whereas pyramidal cells reach their final position by radial migration. Purinergic signaling via P2Y1 receptors controls the migration of intermediate precursor cells from the ventricular zone to the subventricular zone. It was also reported that the blockade of A2A receptors (A2AR) controls the tangential migration of somatostatin+ interneurons.

Anterior positioning of sex chromosomes on the head of human sperm sorted using visible wavelengths.

The human ejaculate contains subpopulations of sperm with distinct properties. Human X- and Y-bearing sperm were separated with fluorescence activated cell sorting. To avoid the use of UV light the quantitative DNA dyes DRAQ5® and Dyecycle™ Vybrant® Violet were used.