Journal of Neuroscience, Vol 8, 746-753, Copyright © 1988 by Society for Neuroscience
Development and survival of neurons in dissociated fetal mesencephalic serum-free cell cultures: II. Modulatory effects of gangliosides
A Leon, R Dal Toso, D Presti, D Benvegnu, L Facci, G Kirschner, G Tettamanti and G Toffano
Fidia Neurobiological Research Laboratories, Abano Terme, Italy.
This paper analyzes the effects of exogenously supplied GM1 on the
development, i.e., specific neurotransmitter uptake capability and
survival, of the dopaminergic neurons present in fetal mouse- dissociated
mesencephalic cells. Exogenous GM1, but not asialo-GM1, sialic acid, or the
oligosaccharide chain of GM1, enhances in a time- and
concentration-dependent manner the specific 3H-dopamine uptake (increase of
the apparent Vmax and decrease of the apparent Km value) and the long-term
survival of the dopaminergic neurons. The GM1 effects on the behavior of
the dopaminergic neurons require the presence of cell-derived
neuronotrophic influences present within the culture system and are
associated with an increase in the response of the cells to the trophic
influences. GM1 effects are not limited to dopaminergic neurons, and depend
on the stable association of the ganglioside molecule with the cells. It is
suggested that GM1 is not a trophic agent per se, but rather potentiates
neuronotrophic activities and/or exerts independent influences to which
neurons respond only if appropriately supported.