The distribution of neurotensin receptors and acetylcholinesterase in the human caudate nucleus: evidence for the existence of a third neurochemical compartment.
The distribution of neurotensin receptors in the human caudate nucleus was studied using autoradiographic methods following in vitro labelling of cryostat sections with [3H]neurotensin, and the pattern of receptor labelling was compared to the distribution of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) staining in adjacent sections. A heterogeneous pattern of neurotensin receptors was found in the caudate nucleus. Patches of low receptor density aligned with the AChE-poor striosomes, regions of moderate receptor density corresponded with the AChE-rich matrix zone, and annular regions of high receptor density aligned with the AChE-negative border zone lying between the AChE-poor striosome and the AChE-rich matrix compartments. These results suggest the existence of 3 neurochemical compartments within the human caudate nucleus.
Faull
R L
RL
Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Auckland, New Zealand.
Dragunow
M
M
Villiger
J W
JW
D000110:Acetylcholinesterase / Q000378:metabolism*; D000328:Adult; D001345:Autoradiography; D002421:Caudate Nucleus / Q000378:metabolism*; D005260:Female; D006651:Histocytochemistry; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D018028:Receptors, Neurotensin; D017981:Receptors, Neurotransmitter / Q000378:metabolism*
D018028:Receptors, Neurotensin; D017981:Receptors, Neurotransmitter; D000110:Acetylcholinesterase