ISSN:
1432-0878
Keywords:
Merkel cell
;
Sinus hair follicle
;
Rat skin
;
Enkephalin
;
Immunohistochemistry
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Medicine
Notes:
Summary The Merkel cells from sinus hair follicles of rats were investigated by immunohistochemistry using different antisera against neuropeptides and gastroenteropancreatic (GEP)-hormones. For the first time it has been demonstrated that Merkel cells exhibit an immunoreactivity towards metenkephalin (methionine-enkephalin). The met-enkephalin immunoreactivity was restricted to Merkel cells and was not found in associated nerve axons or terminals. Denervation of Merkel cells did not affect the met-enkephalin immunoreactivity. Antisera against leu-enkephalin (leucine-enkephalin) and other polypeptides did not produce an immunoreaction. The demonstration of met-enkephalin-like immunoreactivity supports the concept that the Merkel cell is a member of the paraneuronal system and a potential neuroreceptor cell.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00236994
