Activation of phospholipase-Cγ and protein kinase C signal pathways helps the survival of spinal motoneurons injured by root avulsion.

The signaling transduction processes involved in avulsion-induced motoneuron (MN) death have not been elucidated. Using the brachial plexus root avulsion rat model, we showed that avulsion-activated phosphorylation of phospholipase-Cγ (PLCγ) and protein kinase C (PKC) occurred in injured spinal MNs within 72 h of injury. Moreover, some MNs positive for PLCγ and PKC are also positive for avulsion-induced neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS).