Evidence for angiotensin-like molecules in the central nervous system of the leech Theromyzon tessulatum (O.F.M.). A possible diuretic effect.
1. Cells in the central nervous system of the leech Theromyzon tessulatum were revealed with an antiserum against angiotensin II. Among these cells, a group of 4-5 pairs of neurons, called beta giant cells, and located in the posterior compartments of the supraesophageal ganglion was particularly investigated. 2. The amount of angiotensin II-like substance(s) in the brain increased notably in the days immediately following the third meal. 3. Injections of angiotensin II, fragments 1-4 or 5-8 or angiotensin II and of angiotensin III into stage 3 leeches showed that fragment 5-8 of angiotensin II was the most effective: it provokes a loss of mass of the leeches, which could express a diuretic effect.
Laboratoire de Biologie Animale, CNRS URA 148, Université de Lille I, Villeneuve d'Ascq, France.
M
M
Salzet
M
M
Verger-Bocquet
C
C
Wattez
J
J
Malecha
D000804:Angiotensin II / Q000032:analysis* / Q000138:chemical synthesis / Q000502:physiology; D000818:Animals; D002490:Central Nervous System / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D004231:Diuresis / Q000502:physiology*; D004797:Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D007865:Leeches; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D014882:Water-Electrolyte Balance / Q000502:physiology
D000804:Angiotensin II