Peptidergic innervation of the rat Harderian gland.
The immunohistochemical localization of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), Neurotensin (NT), cholecystokinin (CCK), Neuropeptide Y (NPY), and calcitonin-gene-related peptide (CGRP) in rat Harderian glands was examined. Numerous VIP- and CCK-like immunoreactive nerves were found in close apposition to the acini. Sparse numbers of NT-, NPY-, and CGRP-like immunoreactive nerves were observed in close proximity to the acini and blood vessels. Some VIP-like immunoreactive nerves were shown to be co-localized with acetylcholinesterase-positive cholinergic nerves.
D000818:Animals; D015740:Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide; D002766:Cholecystokinin / Q000378:metabolism; D006243:Harderian Gland / Q000294:innervation*; D007765:Lacrimal Apparatus / Q000294:innervation*; D009478:Neuropeptide Y / Q000378:metabolism; D009479:Neuropeptides / Q000378:metabolism*; D009496:Neurotensin / Q000378:metabolism; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000378:metabolism*; D051381:Rats; D014660:Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide / Q000378:metabolism
D009478:Neuropeptide Y; D009479:Neuropeptides; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents; D014660:Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide; D009496:Neurotensin; D002766:Cholecystokinin; D015740:Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide