Na+,K(+)-ATPase activity in neurons and glial cells of the olfactory cortex of the rat brain during the development of long-term potentiation.

Na+,K(+)-ATPase and Mg(2+)-ATPase activities were studied in neurons and glial cells of the olfactory cortex of the rat by quantitative cytophotometry in conditions of long-term potentiation (LTP), and significant changes in direction and extent were found. Na+,K(+)-ATPase activity decreased in neurons in the first 15 min after LTP, with subsequent elevation by 30 min. Mg(2+)-ATPase activity remained unchanged in these conditions. Glial cells showed significant increases in Na+,K(+)-ATPase activity in the initial period after LTP, with return to control by 30 min. Again, there were no significant changes in Mg(2+)-ATPase activity. The formation and persistence of LTP in neurons and glial cells was accompanied by significant changes in Na+,K(+)-ATPase activity, which were reciprocal in nature.