Genetic Architecture and Functional Implications of the CSF-Contacting Nucleus

We previously identified a unique nucleus, the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-contacting nucleus. This study aims to understand its gene architecture and preliminarily suggest its functions. The results showed that there were about 19,666 genes in this nucleus, of which 913 were distinct from the dorsal raphe nucleus (non-CSF contacting). The top 40 highly-expressed genes are mainly related to energy metabolism, protein synthesis, transport, secretion, and hydrolysis. The main neurotransmitter is 5-HT. The receptors of 5-HT and GABA are abundant. The channels for Cl-, Na+, K+, and Ca2+ are routinely expressed. The signaling molecules associated with the CaMK, JAK, and MAPK pathways were identified accurately. In particular, the channels of transient receptor potential associated with nociceptors and the solute carrier superfamily members associated with cell membrane transport were significantly expressed. The relationship between the main genes of the nucleus and life activities is preliminarily verified.

Automated summary

This study explores the gene architecture and potential functions of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-contacting nucleus. The results show that this nucleus contains 19,666 genes, with 913 genes distinct from the non-CSF-contacting dorsal raphe nucleus. The top 40 highly expressed genes are mainly involved in energy metabolism, protein synthesis, transport, secretion, and hydrolysis. The main neurotransmitter is 5-HT, and the receptors for 5-HT and GABA are abundant. Various ion channels and signaling molecules associated with specific pathways were identified. Additionally, important genes related to pain perception and cellular membrane transport were significantly expressed.