Abnormal expression of SNS/PN3 sodium channel in cerebellar Purkinje cellsfollowing loss of myelin in the taiep rat

USING in situ hybridization and immunochemical methods, we have observed an increase in the expression of SNS/PN3 sodium channel mRNA and protein in c erebellar Purkinje cells of, the taiep rat. These changes are present in ta iep rats at 12 months of age, following loss of myelin, but not at one mont h, prior to loss of myelin. Increased SNS/PN3 expression is not associated with aging per se, because it was not observed in control rats at 12 months of age. These results suggest that altered sodium channel expression in Pu rkinje cells may contribute to the ataxia that occurs in taiep rats. NeuroR eport 10:913-918 (C) 1999 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.