TRPC5-CaV3 complex mediates Leptin-induced excitability in hypothalamic neurons

Leptin regulates hypothalamic POMC+ (pro-opiomelanocortin) neurons by inducing TRPC (Transient Receptor Potential Cation) channel-mediate membrane depolarization. Here we assessed the role of T-type channels on POMC neuron excitability and leptin-induced depolarization in vitro. We demonstrate T-type currents are indispensable for both processes, as treatment with NNC-55-0396 prevented the membrane depolarization and rheobase changes induced by leptin in cultured mouse POMC neurons. Furthermore, we demonstrate TRPC1/C5 channels and CaV3.1 and CaV3.2 channels co-exist in complex. The functional relevance of this complex was corroborated using intracellular Ca2+ chelators; intracellular BAPTA (but not EGTA) application was sufficient to preclude POMC neuron excitability by preventing leptin-induced calcium influx through TRPC channels and T-type channel function. We conclude T-type channels are integral in POMC neuron excitability. Leptin activation of TRPC channels existing in a macromolecular complex with T-type channels recruits the latter by locally-induced membrane depolarization, further depolarizing POMC neurons, triggering action potentials and excitability.