Neurotransmitter Synthesis by Neuroblastoma Clones

TLDR

Neuroblastoma clones were characterized for enzymes involved in acetylcholine and catechol synthesis (choline acetyltransferase, tyrosine hydroxylase, acetylcholinesterase) and for neurite formation. The study identified three neurotransmitter phenotypes among neuroblastoma clones—cholinergic, adrenergic, and non‑synthesizing—while all clones expressed acetylcholinesterase, and demonstrated that neurotransmitter‑determining genes are active in dividing cells, inherited from parents, and can be programmed to influence intercellular communication.

Abstract

Neuroblastoma clones were examined for choline acetyltransferase (EC 2.3.1.6), tyrosine hydroxylase (EC 1.14.3.a), acetylcholinesterase (EC 3.1.1.7), and also for neurite formation. One clone does not form axons or dendrites. Three types of clones were found with respect to neurotransmitter synthesis: cholinergic, adrenergic, and clones that do not synthesize acetylcholine or catechols. All clones contain acetylcholinesterase. These results show that genes determining neurotransmitter species can be expressed in dividing cells, that the parental programs of gene expression are inherited, and that dividing cells can be programmed with respect to their ability to communicate with other cells.