Metabolic channeling concept

Discussion of vulnerability of the axon and its terminal to toxicants must be based on an appreciation of specialized aspects of the metabolism of the neuron. This cell type has been discussed in the chapter dealing with the CNS. The concepts of chemically mediated neurotransmission, second messenger systems, specialized ion channels, and conduction of waves of depolarization with consequent high demand for energy to restore Na+ and K+ ion gradients are applicable to the PNS as well as the CNS. Of particular relevance is the fact that the neuromuscular junction is cholin-... 

From the present data, it is not possible to conclude whether or not critical thiols and/or the redox state of nicotinamide nucleotides are directly linked to voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels or related to close proteins. Nevertheless, if the concept is true, it is unique since pancreatic islets are the only tissue where Ca2+ uptake is predominantly regulated by glucose and its metabolism. However, it must be stated that the available evidence needs to be confirmed by further investigation. 

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