Messenger RNA from rat brain induces noradrenaline and dopamine receptors in Xenopus oocytes

Abstract
Xenopus oocytes were induced to acquire sensitivity to noradrenaline and dopamine, by injecting them with poly(A) + mRNA isolated from rat brain. In mRNA-injected oocytes, both neurotransmitters elicited a smooth inward membrane current on which was superimposed an oscil­latory inward current, which was carried mainly by chloride ions. This contrasts with the native responses that are sometimes seen in non-injected oocytes, where noradrenaline and dopamine both elicit smooth outward currents that are carried mainly by potassium ions. The serotonin antagonist methysergide blocked the induced responses to both nor­adrenaline and dopamine, and the noradrenaline response was blocked by propranolol.

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