XB-ART-21000
Eur J Morphol
1994 Aug 01;322-4:307-10.
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Central control of melanotrope cells of Xenopus laevis.
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Our research focusses on the role of brain and hypophysis in the control of background adaptation in the clawed toad, Xenopus laevis. This adaptation is regulated by alpha-melanophorestimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). Previously, it was shown that various neurotransmitters influence alpha-MSH release. Here we report about the origin of these factors. Using retrograde labelling techniques combined with immunocytochemistry, it was found that the inhibitory transmitters dopamine and neuropeptide Y coexist in neurons in the suprachiasmatic nucleus. These neurons project to the pars intermedia and synaptically contact the alpha-MSH-producing melanotrope cells. In the synapses also GABA is present. Tracing of the optic nerve indicated the presence of a direct retinosuprachiasmatic tract. Furthermore, locus coeruleus neurons project to the pars intermedia. They contain the inhibitory transmitter noradrenaline. The stimulatory factors corticotropin-releasing hormone and thyrotropin stimulating hormone originate from the magnocellular nucleus which send its processes to the neural lobe of the hypophysis.
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Species referenced: Xenopus laevis
Genes referenced: npy pomc