Effect of calcitonin gene-related peptide on synaptic transmission at the neuromuscular junction of the frog.

The effects of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) on synaptic mechanisms were studied at the frog neuromuscular junction by using classical electrophysiological techniques. CGRP reduced the quantal content of evoked neurotransmitter release, as well as the sensitivity of postsynaptic nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (AChRs). No effect on the frequency of the miniature end-plate potentials or on the desensitization of the AChRs could be observed. Both the measured effects may depend on the stimulation of the cyclic AMP second messenger system.