The origin of the serotonergic (5-HT) innervation of the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) was studied by injecting fluorescent dyes or enzymes which are transported in a retrograde direction into the NTS. The dorsal raphe nucleus was also ablated with electrolytic lesions and the effects on 5-HT levels in the NTS and other brain areas were determined by HPLC. Finally, unilateral removal of the nodose ganglion was tested for its effects on NTS 5-HT levels. The results from these studies leave open the question of 5-HT innervation of the NTS since neither raphe lesions nor nodose ganglionectomy altered NTS 5-HT levels or its metabolism in any detectable fashion. Furthermore, fluorescent retrograde dyes could not be reliably traced from the NTS to any major 5-HT nuclei.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Type
Intramural Research (Z01)
Project #
1Z01HL003539-02
Application #
4694630
Study Section
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
Budget End
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
1985
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
U.S. National Heart Lung and Blood Inst
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
State
Country
United States
Zip Code