Vasopressin- and oxytocin-like systems in the chameleon brain

J Hirnforsch. 1995;36(4):445-50.

Abstract

The distribution of vasopressin (VP)-like and oxytocin (OX)-like immunoreactivities was investigated in the chameleon brain with antisera specific for either peptide. VP-like and OX-like neurons are found only in two nuclei: in the supraoptic and in the paraventricular nuclei, whereas both peptidergic innervations are restricted to some ventral areas, especially to the hypothalamus. However, in these areas, OX-like innervation is less dense than the VP-like innervation. Even though, no sex differences were noted for the two systems, differences are present between the normal female and the preoviposit one concerning VP-like system. In the latter female, numerous VPergic-like cell bodies occurred in the ependymal layer, making likely direct contact with the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of the third ventricle. In addition, some VP-like nerve fibers seem to be in supraependymal position at the septal wall, probably also in contact with CSF.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain Chemistry / physiology*
  • Cell Size / physiology
  • Female
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Lizards / metabolism*
  • Male
  • Nerve Fibers / metabolism
  • Nerve Fibers / ultrastructure
  • Oviposition / physiology
  • Oxytocin / metabolism*
  • Pituitary Gland, Posterior / metabolism
  • Sex Characteristics
  • Supraoptic Nucleus / metabolism
  • Supraoptic Nucleus / ultrastructure
  • Vasopressins / metabolism*

Substances

  • Vasopressins
  • Oxytocin