Immunocytochemical identification of some regulatory peptides (gastrin, gastrin-releasing peptide, neurotensin and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide) in the Harderian gland of the green frog, Rana esculenta

Cell Tissue Res. 1992 Dec;270(3):609-11. doi: 10.1007/BF00645065.

Abstract

The presence and distribution of gastrin-, gastrin-releasing peptide-, neurotensin- and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide-like immunoreactivity in the Harderian gland of Rana esculenta were studied at different times of the annual cycle. Gastrin-releasing peptide, neurotensin and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide-like substances were found either in the glandular cells, or in the nerve fibers surrounding the glandular acini. Gastrin-like immunoreactivity was confined to the glandular cells. The immunoreactivity varied during the annual cycle, with the greatest concentration being noted during the recovery phase of glandular secretory activity.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Gastrin-Releasing Peptide
  • Gastrins / metabolism*
  • Harderian Gland / metabolism*
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Neurotensin / metabolism*
  • Peptides / metabolism*
  • Rana esculenta
  • Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide / metabolism*

Substances

  • Gastrins
  • Peptides
  • Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide
  • Neurotensin
  • Gastrin-Releasing Peptide