Receptors with opposing functions are in postsynaptic microdomains under one presynaptic terminal

Fast excitatory synaptic transmission through vertebrate autonomic ganglia is mediated by postsynaptic nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). We demonstrate a unique postsynaptic receptor microheterogeneity on chick parasympathetic ciliary ganglion neurons-under one presynaptic terminal, nAChRs and glycine receptors formed separate but proximal clusters. Terminals were loaded with [3H]glycine via the glycine transporter-1 (GlyT-1), which localized to the cholinergic presynaptic terminal membrane; depolarization evoked [3H]glycine release that was calcium independent and blocked by the GlyT-1 inhibitor sarcosine. Ganglionic synaptic transmission mediated by nAChRs was attenuated by glycine. Coexistence of separate clusters of receptors with opposing functions under one terminal contradicts Dale's principle and provides a new mechanism for modulating synaptic activity in vivo.