Modulating Mechanosensory Afferent Excitability by an Atypical mGluR

The study explored the modulation of mechanosensory afferent excitability via an atypical metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) in muscle spindles and hair follicle lanceolate endings. It was found that these afferents release glutamate from synaptic-like vesicles (SLVs), activating the mGluR to modulate activity. Novel kainate derivatives, especially ZCZ90, were effective in enhancing stretch-induced afferent firing, with ZCZ90's action being blocked by PCCG-13, indicating its specific receptor affinity. The research highlighted the potential for targeting these receptors in treating mechanosensory diseases and hypertension, noting differences between mechanosensory endings that suggest opportunities for selective modulation.