We have previously shown that VEGF has specific effects on the physiology of hippocampal neurons, particularly under certain pathophysiological conditions (McCloskey et al., SFN 2004: 567.21). Given the evidence that brainstem motoneurons are also sensitive to VEGF signaling, we examined the effects of VEGF on intrinsic and synaptic properties of hypoglossal motoneurons in brainstem slices using intracellular recording techniques. Acute brainstem slices (400 µm) were made at the level of the obex in young adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (~ 31 days old) and maintained at 31-32°C. Morphologically-identified hypoglossal motoneurons were recorded with sharp microelectrodes. Recombinant human VEGF 165 (generously provided by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals) was applied directly to the slice, at a concentration shown to depress hippocampal synaptic transmission [260 ng/ml]. Intrinsic properties of hypoglossal neurons were compared before and after exposure to VEGF. The resting potential, action potential properties, an...