Synaptic Transmission: Long-Lasting Potentiation by a Postsynaptic Mechanism

Abstract

Slow decreases of ionic conductance across neuronal cell membranes, which generate slow synaptic potentials, can increase the effectiveness of synaptic transmission. Slow conductance decreases sufficient magnitude increase the amplitude of monosynaptic fast excitatory postsynaptic potentials in B cells of the bullfrog sympathetic ganglion. By this postsynaptic mechanism, activation of one synaptic pathway can cause an increase in transmission, lasting several minutes, across another synapse. This may provide an important mechanism for synaptic integration and control of neuronal interaction.