CCK-like peptides in the neural complex of a protochordate.
The neural complex of the ascidian Styela plicata has been investigated by means of cytochemical and immunocytochemical methods. In the cerebral ganglion, using a mammalian antibody to synthetic CCK-8, immunoreactive neurons and nerve fibers have been localized; at the same time immunofluorescent cells are scattered in some glandular lobules of the neural gland. The possible functions of a CCK-8-like peptide in ascidians is suggested and discussed.
D000818:Animals; D002766:Cholecystokinin / Q000378:metabolism*; D002816:Chordata, Nonvertebrate / Q000378:metabolism*; D005724:Ganglia / Q000378:metabolism; D007158:Immunologic Techniques; D009474:Neurons / Q000378:metabolism*
D002766:Cholecystokinin