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Medrano M, Allaoui W, Van Bulck M, Thys S, Makrini-Maleville L, Seuntjens E, De Vos WH, Valjent E, Gaszner B, Van Eeckhaut A, Smolders I, De Bundel D. Neuroanatomical characterization of the Nmu-Cre knock-in mice reveals an interconnected network of unique neuropeptidergic cells. Open Biol 2023; 13:220353. [PMID: 37311538 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.220353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuromedin U (NMU) is an evolutionary conserved neuropeptide that has been implicated in multiple processes, such as circadian regulation, energy homeostasis, reward processing and stress coping. Although the central expression of NMU has been addressed previously, the lack of specific and sensitive tools has prevented a comprehensive characterization of NMU-expressing neurons in the brain. We have generated a knock-in mouse model constitutively expressing Cre recombinase under the Nmu promoter. We have validated the model using a multi-level approach based on quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reactions, in situ hybridization, a reporter mouse line and an adenoviral vector driving Cre-dependent expression of a fluorescent protein. Using the Nmu-Cre mouse, we performed a complete characterization of NMU expression in adult mouse brain, unveiling a potential midline NMU modulatory circuit with the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus (VMH) as a key node. Moreover, immunohistochemical analysis suggested that NMU neurons in the VMH mainly constitute a unique population of hypothalamic cells. Taken together, our results suggest that Cre expression in the Nmu-Cre mouse model largely reflects NMU expression in the adult mouse brain, without altering endogenous NMU expression. Thus, the Nmu-Cre mouse model is a powerful and sensitive tool to explore the role of NMU neurons in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mireia Medrano
- Center for Neurosciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Wissal Allaoui
- Center for Neurosciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mathias Van Bulck
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Oncology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sofie Thys
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology and Antwerp Centre for Advanced Microscopy (ACAM), University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Eve Seuntjens
- Department of Biology, Laboratory of Developmental Neurobiology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Winnok H De Vos
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology and Antwerp Centre for Advanced Microscopy (ACAM), University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
- μNEURO Research Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
- Antwerp Centre for Advanced Microscopy (ACAM), 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Emmanuel Valjent
- IGF, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, Inserm, 34094 Montpellier, France
| | - Bálazs Gaszner
- Medical School, Research Group for Mood Disorders, Department of Anatomy and Centre for Neuroscience, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Ann Van Eeckhaut
- Center for Neurosciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ilse Smolders
- Center for Neurosciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dimitri De Bundel
- Center for Neurosciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
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Yokogi K, Goto Y, Otsuka M, Ojima F, Kobayashi T, Tsuchiba Y, Takeuchi Y, Namba M, Kohno M, Tetsuka M, Takeuchi S, Matsuyama M, Aizawa S. Neuromedin U-deficient rats do not lose body weight or food intake. Sci Rep 2022; 12:17472. [PMID: 36302800 PMCID: PMC9614009 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-21764-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies in genetically modified mice establish that essential roles of endogenous neuromedin U (NMU) are anorexigenic function and metabolic regulation, indicating that NMU is expected to be a potential target for anti-obesity agents. However, in central administration experiments in rats, inconsistent results have been obtained, and the essential role of NMU energy metabolism in rats remain unclear. This study aims to elucidate the role of endogenous NMU in rats. We generated NMU knockout (KO) rats that unexpectedly showed no difference in body weight, adiposity, circulating metabolic markers, body temperature, locomotor activity, and food consumption in both normal and high fat chow feeding. Furthermore, unlike reported in mice, expressions of Nmu and NMU receptor type 2 (Nmur2) mRNA were hardly detectable in the rat hypothalamic nuclei regulating feeding and energy metabolism, including the arcuate nucleus and paraventricular nucleus, while Nmu was expressed in pars tuberalis and Nmur2 was expressed in the ependymal cell layer of the third ventricle. These results indicate that the species-specific expression pattern of Nmu and Nmur2 may allow NMU to have distinct functions across species, and that endogenous NMU does not function as an anorexigenic hormone in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyoka Yokogi
- grid.261356.50000 0001 1302 4472Department of Biology, Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8530 Japan
| | - Yuki Goto
- grid.261356.50000 0001 1302 4472Department of Biology, Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8530 Japan
| | - Mai Otsuka
- grid.261356.50000 0001 1302 4472Department of Biology, Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8530 Japan
| | - Fumiya Ojima
- grid.415086.e0000 0001 1014 2000Department of Natural Sciences and Biology, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama 701-0192 Japan
| | - Tomoe Kobayashi
- grid.415729.c0000 0004 0377 284XDivision of Molecular Genetics, Shigei Medical Research Institute, 2117 Yamada, Minami-ku, Okayama 701-0202 Japan
| | - Yukina Tsuchiba
- grid.261356.50000 0001 1302 4472Department of Biology, Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8530 Japan
| | - Yu Takeuchi
- grid.261356.50000 0001 1302 4472Department of Biology, Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8530 Japan
| | - Masumi Namba
- grid.415729.c0000 0004 0377 284XDivision of Molecular Genetics, Shigei Medical Research Institute, 2117 Yamada, Minami-ku, Okayama 701-0202 Japan
| | - Mayumi Kohno
- grid.415729.c0000 0004 0377 284XDivision of Molecular Genetics, Shigei Medical Research Institute, 2117 Yamada, Minami-ku, Okayama 701-0202 Japan
| | - Minami Tetsuka
- grid.261356.50000 0001 1302 4472Department of Biology, Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8530 Japan
| | - Sakae Takeuchi
- grid.261356.50000 0001 1302 4472Department of Biology, Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8530 Japan
| | - Makoto Matsuyama
- grid.415729.c0000 0004 0377 284XDivision of Molecular Genetics, Shigei Medical Research Institute, 2117 Yamada, Minami-ku, Okayama 701-0202 Japan
| | - Sayaka Aizawa
- grid.261356.50000 0001 1302 4472Department of Biology, Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8530 Japan
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3
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Ye Y, Liang Z, Xue L. Neuromedin U: potential roles in immunity and inflammation. Immunology 2020; 162:17-29. [PMID: 32888314 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the discovery of neuromedin U (NmU) from porcine spinal cord in 1985, this neuropeptide has been subsequently identified in many other species with multiple physiological and pathophysiological roles detected, ranging from smooth muscle contraction, feeding, energy balance to tumorigenesis. Intriguingly, NmU is also emerging to play pro-inflammatory roles involving immune cell activation and cytokine release in a neuron-dependent or neuron-independent manner. The NmU-mediated inflammatory responses have already been observed in worm infection, sepsis, autoimmune arthritis and allergic animal models. In this review, we focus on the roles of NmU in immunity and inflammation by highlighting the interactions between NmU and immune cells, summarizing the signalling mechanism involved in their reactions and discussing its potential contributions to inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Ye
- The Respiratory Medicine Unit, Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China School of Medicine and West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zongan Liang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China School of Medicine and West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Luzheng Xue
- The Respiratory Medicine Unit, Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Grippi C, Izzi B, Gianfagna F, Noro F, Falcinelli E, Di Pardo A, Amico E, Donati M, de Gaetano G, Iacoviello L, Hoylaerts M, Cerletti C. Neuromedin U potentiates ADP- and epinephrine-induced human platelet activation. Thromb Res 2017; 159:100-108. [DOI: 10.1016/j.thromres.2017.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Revised: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Gajjar S, Patel BM. Neuromedin: An insight into its types, receptors and therapeutic opportunities. Pharmacol Rep 2017; 69:438-447. [PMID: 31994106 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharep.2017.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 12/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Neuropeptides are small protein used by neurons in signal communications. Neuromedin U was the first neuropeptide discovered from the porcine spinal and showed its potent constricting activities on uterus hence was entitled with neuromedin U. Following neuromedin U another of its isoform was discovered neuromedin S which was observed in suprachiasmatic nucleus hence was entitled neuromedin S. Neuromedin K and neuromedin L are of kanassin class which belong to tachykinin family. Bombesin family consists of neuromedin B and neuromedin C. All these different neuromedins have various physiological roles like constrictive effects on the smooth muscles, control of blood pressure, pain sensations, hunger, bone metastasis and release and regulation of hormones. Over the years various newer physiological roles have been observed thus opening ways for various novel therapeutic treatments. This review aims to provide an overview of important different types of neuromedin, their receptors, signal transduction mechanism and implications for various diseases.
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Chiu CN, Rihel J, Lee DA, Singh C, Mosser EA, Chen S, Sapin V, Pham U, Engle J, Niles BJ, Montz CJ, Chakravarthy S, Zimmerman S, Salehi-Ashtiani K, Vidal M, Schier AF, Prober DA. A Zebrafish Genetic Screen Identifies Neuromedin U as a Regulator of Sleep/Wake States. Neuron 2016; 89:842-56. [PMID: 26889812 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2016.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2015] [Revised: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 12/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Neuromodulation of arousal states ensures that an animal appropriately responds to its environment and engages in behaviors necessary for survival. However, the molecular and circuit properties underlying neuromodulation of arousal states such as sleep and wakefulness remain unclear. To tackle this challenge in a systematic and unbiased manner, we performed a genetic overexpression screen to identify genes that affect larval zebrafish arousal. We found that the neuropeptide neuromedin U (Nmu) promotes hyperactivity and inhibits sleep in zebrafish larvae, whereas nmu mutant animals are hypoactive. We show that Nmu-induced arousal requires Nmu receptor 2 and signaling via corticotropin releasing hormone (Crh) receptor 1. In contrast to previously proposed models, we find that Nmu does not promote arousal via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, but rather probably acts via brainstem crh-expressing neurons. These results reveal an unexpected functional and anatomical interface between the Nmu system and brainstem arousal systems that represents a novel wake-promoting pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy N Chiu
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Jason Rihel
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT, UK; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Daniel A Lee
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Chanpreet Singh
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Eric A Mosser
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Shijia Chen
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Viveca Sapin
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Uyen Pham
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Jae Engle
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Brett J Niles
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Christin J Montz
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Sridhara Chakravarthy
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Steven Zimmerman
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Kourosh Salehi-Ashtiani
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology and Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Marc Vidal
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology and Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Alexander F Schier
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Center for Brain Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.
| | - David A Prober
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA.
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Röder PV, Wu B, Liu Y, Han W. Pancreatic regulation of glucose homeostasis. Exp Mol Med 2016; 48:e219. [PMID: 26964835 PMCID: PMC4892884 DOI: 10.1038/emm.2016.6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 423] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Revised: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to ensure normal body function, the human body is dependent on a tight control of its blood glucose levels. This is accomplished by a highly sophisticated network of various hormones and neuropeptides released mainly from the brain, pancreas, liver, intestine as well as adipose and muscle tissue. Within this network, the pancreas represents a key player by secreting the blood sugar-lowering hormone insulin and its opponent glucagon. However, disturbances in the interplay of the hormones and peptides involved may lead to metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) whose prevalence, comorbidities and medical costs take on a dramatic scale. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to uncover and understand the mechanisms underlying the various interactions to improve existing anti-diabetic therapies and drugs on the one hand and to develop new therapeutic approaches on the other. This review summarizes the interplay of the pancreas with various other organs and tissues that maintain glucose homeostasis. Furthermore, anti-diabetic drugs and their impact on signaling pathways underlying the network will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia V Röder
- Metabolism in Human Diseases Unit, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
- Metabolism in Human Diseases Unit, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138673, Singapore. E-mail: or
| | - Bingbing Wu
- Laboratory of Metabolic Medicine, Singapore Bioimaging Consortium, A*STAR, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yixian Liu
- Laboratory of Metabolic Medicine, Singapore Bioimaging Consortium, A*STAR, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Weiping Han
- Metabolism in Human Diseases Unit, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
- Laboratory of Metabolic Medicine, Singapore Bioimaging Consortium, A*STAR, Singapore, Singapore
- Metabolism in Human Diseases Unit, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138673, Singapore. E-mail: or
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Dalbøge LS, Pedersen SL, Secher T, Holst B, Vrang N, Jelsing J. Neuromedin U inhibits food intake partly by inhibiting gastric emptying. Peptides 2015; 69:56-65. [PMID: 25895852 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2015.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2015] [Revised: 03/31/2015] [Accepted: 04/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Neuromedin U (NMU) is a gut-brain peptide, implicated in energy and glucose homeostasis via the peripherally expressed NMU receptor 1 (NMUR1) and the central NMUR2. We investigated the effects of a lipidated NMU analog on gastric emptying (GE), glucose homeostasis and food intake to evaluate the use of a NMU analog as drug candidate for treatment of obesity and diabetes. Finally mRNA expression of NMU and NMUR1 in the gut and NMUR2 in the hypothalamus was investigated using a novel chromogen-based in situ hybridization (ISH) assay. Effects on food intake (6 and 18 h post dosing) were addressed in both mice and rats. The effects on GE and glycaemic control were assessed in mice, immediately after the first dose and after seven days of bidaily (BID) dosing. The lipidated NMU analog exerted robust reductions in GE and food intake in mice and improved glycaemic control when measured immediately after the first dose. No effects were observed after seven days BID. In rats, the analog induced only a minor effect on food intake. NMU mRNA was detected in the enteric nervous system throughout the gut, whereas NMUR1 was confined to the lamina propria. NMUR2 was detected in the paraventricular (PVN) and arcuate nuclei (ARC) in mice, with a reduced expression in ARC in rats. In summary, the anorectic effect of the lipidated NMU is partly mediated by a decrease in gastric emptying which is subject to tachyphylaxis after continuous dosing. Susceptibility to NMU appears to be species specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise S Dalbøge
- Gubra ApS, Agern Alle 1, 2970 Hørsholm, Denmark; University of Copenhagen, The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | | | | | - Birgitte Holst
- University of Copenhagen, The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Niels Vrang
- Gubra ApS, Agern Alle 1, 2970 Hørsholm, Denmark
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Martinez VG, O'Driscoll L. Neuromedin U: a multifunctional neuropeptide with pleiotropic roles. Clin Chem 2015; 61:471-82. [PMID: 25605682 DOI: 10.1373/clinchem.2014.231753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuromedin U (NmU) belongs to the neuromedin family, comprising a series of neuropeptides involved in the gut-brain axis and including neuromedins B and C (bombesin-like), K (neurokinin B), L (neurokinin A or neurotensin), N, S, and U. CONTENT Although initially isolated from porcine spinal cord on the basis of their ability to induce uterine smooth muscle contraction, these peptides have now been found to be expressed in several different tissues and have been ascribed numerous functions, from appetite regulation and energy balance control to muscle contraction and tumor progression. NmU has been detected in several species to date, particularly in mammals (pig, rat, rabbit, dog, guinea pig, human), but also in amphibian, avian, and fish species. The NmU sequence is highly conserved across different species, indicating that this peptide is ancient and plays an important biological role. Here, we summarize the main structural and functional characteristics of NmU and describe its many roles, highlighting the jack-of-all-trades nature of this neuropeptide. SUMMARY NmU involvement in key processes has outlined the possibility that this neuropeptide could be a novel target for the treatment of obesity and cancer, among other disorders. Although the potential for NmU as a therapeutic target is obvious, the multiple functions of this molecule should be taken into account when designing an approach to targeting NmU and/or its receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanesa G Martinez
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lorraine O'Driscoll
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
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Aizawa S, Sakata I, Nagasaka M, Higaki Y, Sakai T. Negative regulation of neuromedin U mRNA expression in the rat pars tuberalis by melatonin. PLoS One 2013; 8:e67118. [PMID: 23843987 PMCID: PMC3699551 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0067118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2013] [Accepted: 05/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The pars tuberalis (PT) is part of the anterior pituitary gland surrounding the median eminence as a thin cell layer. The characteristics of PT differ from those of the pars distalis (PD), such as cell composition and gene expression, suggesting that the PT has a unique physiological function compared to the PD. Because the PT highly expresses melatonin receptor type 1, it is considered a mediator of seasonal and/or circadian signals of melatonin. Expression of neuromedin U (NMU) that is known to regulate energy balance has been previously reported in the rat PT; however, the regulatory mechanism of NMU mRNA expression and secretion in the PT are still obscure. In this study, we examined both the diurnal change of NMU mRNA expression in the rat PT and the effects of melatonin on NMU in vivo. In situ hybridization and quantitative PCR analysis of laser microdissected PT samples revealed that NMU mRNA expression in the PT has diurnal variation that is high during the light phase and low during the dark phase. Furthermore, melatonin administration significantly suppressed NMU mRNA expression in the PT in vivo. On the other hand, 48 h fasting did not have an effect on PT-NMU mRNA expression, and the diurnal change of NMU mRNA expression was maintained. We also found the highest expression of neuromedin U receptor type 2 (NMUR2) mRNA in the third ventricle ependymal cell layer, followed by the arcuate nucleus and the spinal cord. These results suggest that NMU mRNA expression in the PT is downregulated by melatonin during the dark phase and shows diurnal change. Considering that NMU mRNA in the PT showed the highest expression level in the brain, PT-NMU may act on NMUR2 in the brain, especially in the third ventricle ependymal cell layer, with a circadian rhythm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayaka Aizawa
- Area of Regulatory Biology, Division of Life Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, Sakuraku, Saitama, Japan
| | - Ichiro Sakata
- Area of Regulatory Biology, Division of Life Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, Sakuraku, Saitama, Japan
| | - Mai Nagasaka
- Area of Regulatory Biology, Division of Life Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, Sakuraku, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yuriko Higaki
- Area of Regulatory Biology, Division of Life Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, Sakuraku, Saitama, Japan
| | - Takafumi Sakai
- Area of Regulatory Biology, Division of Life Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, Sakuraku, Saitama, Japan
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Ketterer K, Kong B, Frank D, Giese NA, Bauer A, Hoheisel J, Korc M, Kleeff J, Michalski CW, Friess H. Neuromedin U is overexpressed in pancreatic cancer and increases invasiveness via the hepatocyte growth factor c-Met pathway. Cancer Lett 2009; 277:72-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2008.11.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2008] [Revised: 11/10/2008] [Accepted: 11/17/2008] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Sasaki T, Shimizu T, Wakiguchi H, Yokotani K. Centrally administered neuromedin U elevates plasma adrenaline by brain prostanoid TP receptor-mediated mechanisms in rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2008; 592:81-6. [PMID: 18647601 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2008.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2008] [Revised: 06/23/2008] [Accepted: 07/05/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Neuromedin U is a hypothalamic peptide involved in energy homeostasis and stress responses. The peptide, when administered intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.), decreases food intake and body weight while increasing body temperature and heat production. We examined the effect of i.c.v. administered neuromedin U on plasma catecholamines with regard to the brain prostanoid using anesthetized rats. Neuromedin U (0.1, 0.5 and 1 nmol/animal, i.c.v.) effectively elevated plasma adrenaline (a maximal response was obtained at 0.5 nmol/animal), but had little effect on plasma noradrenaline. However, intravenously administered neuromedin U (0.5 nmol/animal) had no effect on plasma catecholamines. Neuromedin U (0.5 nmol/animal, i.c.v.)-induced elevation of plasma adrenaline was effectively reduced by intracerebroventricular pretreatments with indomethacin (an inhibitor of cyclooxygenase) (0.6 and 1.2 micromol/animal), furegrelate (an inhibitor of thromboxane A2 synthase) (0.9 and 1.8 micromol/animal) and (+)-S-145 (a blocker of prostanoid TP receptors) (250 and 625 nmol/animal), respectively. The neuromedin U-induced adrenaline response was also abolished by acute bilateral adrenalectomy. These results suggest that centrally administered neuromedin U evokes the secretion of adrenaline from the adrenal medulla by brain prostanoid TP receptor-mediated mechanisms in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsuyoshi Sasaki
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi 783-8505, Japan
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Takahashi K, Furukawa C, Takano A, Ishikawa N, Kato T, Hayama S, Suzuki C, Yasui W, Inai K, Sone S, Ito T, Nishimura H, Tsuchiya E, Nakamura Y, Daigo Y. The neuromedin U-growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1b/neurotensin receptor 1 oncogenic signaling pathway as a therapeutic target for lung cancer. Cancer Res 2007; 66:9408-19. [PMID: 17018595 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-06-1349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Using a genome-wide cDNA microarray to search for genes that were specifically up-regulated in non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC), we identified an abundant expression of neuromedin U (NMU) in the great majority of lung cancers. Immunohistochemical analysis showed a significant association of NMU expression with poorer prognosis of patients with NSCLC. Treatment of NSCLC cells with short interfering RNA against NMU suppressed its expression and inhibited the growth of the cells; on the other hand, the induction of exogenous expression of NMU conferred growth-promoting activity and enhanced cell mobility in vitro. We found that two G protein-coupled receptors, growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1b and neurotensin receptor 1, were also overexpressed in NSCLC cells, and that a heterodimer complex of these receptors functioned as an NMU receptor. The NMU-receptor interaction subsequently induced the generation of a second messenger, cyclic AMP, to activate its downstream genes including transcription factors and cell cycle regulators. Treatment of NSCLC cells with short interfering RNAs for growth hormone secretagogue receptor or neurotensin receptor 1 suppressed the expression of those genes and the growth of NSCLC cells. These data strongly implied that targeting the NMU signaling pathway would be a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of lung cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Takahashi
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Human Genome Center, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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14
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Jones NA, Morton MF, Prendergast CE, Powell GL, Shankley NP, Hollingsworth SJ. Neuromedin U stimulates contraction of human long saphenous vein and gastrointestinal smooth muscle in vitro. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 136:109-16. [PMID: 16782214 DOI: 10.1016/j.regpep.2006.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2005] [Revised: 05/02/2006] [Accepted: 05/12/2006] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The neuropeptide Neuromedin U (NMU) stimulates smooth muscle contraction, and modulates local blood flow and adrenocortical function via two endogenous receptors, NMU1 and NMU2. Although its amino-acid sequence is highly conserved across species, the physiological effects of NMU are variable between species and little is known of its effects on human tissues. We have examined the contractile effects of NMU-25 on human smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract (ascending colon, gallbladder) and long saphenous vein (LSV) using in vitro organ bath bioassays. From LSV, ileum, gallbladder, caecum and colon, NMU receptor transcripts were amplified by RT-PCR and expression levels were determined by semi-quantitative scanning densitometry. NMU-25 produced a concentration-dependent, sustained contraction of isolated smooth muscle (p[A](50)+/-s.e.m., ascending colon, 8.93+/-0.18; gallbladder, 7.01+/-0.15; LSV, 8.67+/-0.09). NMU1 and NMU2 receptor transcription was detected in all tissues; transcription of both receptors was similar in gallbladder, but NMU1 receptor transcription was predominant in the sigmoid colon and LSV. In summary, these studies indicate that NMU may control tone in the human GI tract and LSV through an action on smooth muscle. Development of NMU receptor subtype-selective ligands will aid the further elucidation of the physiological roles of NMU and its two receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil A Jones
- Department of Surgery, Royal Free and University College Medical School, The Middlesex Hospital, Mortimer Street, London W1T 3AA, UK
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15
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Graham ES, Littlewood P, Turnbull Y, Mercer JG, Morgan PJ, Barrett P. Neuromedin-U is regulated by the circadian clock in the SCN of the mouse. Eur J Neurosci 2005; 21:814-9. [PMID: 15733101 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2005.03923.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Neuromedin-U (NMU) has been reported to drive several physiological or behavioural responses following i.c.v. injection of the peptide into the third ventricle of rodent brains. Many of these responses are mediated through a change in corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF) output from the paraventricular nucleus (PVN). A number of the physiological or behavioural responses are regulated in a circadian manner, e.g. feeding. We have previously reported NMU gene expression in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) and NMU-2 receptor expression in the PVN, dorsal medial hypothalamus (DMH) and other regions of the mouse brain. We therefore hypothesized that NMU would be regulated by the circadian clock and may consequently drive a circadian rhythm of CRF expression in the PVN. Here we report that NMU is regulated in a circadian manner with peak expression during the light phase of a light-dark cycle. In C3H mice held in constant darkness, the NMU rhythm free runs with a period predicted by the free running period of locomotor activity in this mouse. The NMU mRNA transcript colocalizes with cells expressing AVP in the SCN and shows a coincident rhythm of expression with AVP. On the other hand, CRF did not express a circadian rhythm of expression in a light-dark cycle, although a rhythm was evident in constant darkness with a peak of expression prior to the rise of NMU in the same conditions. This would suggest that the circadian rhythm in NMU expression in the SCN does not drive a circadian rhythm in CRF in the PVN to be translated into physiological and behavioural responses mediated by NMU.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Scott Graham
- Molecular Endocrinology Group, Aberdeen Centre for Energy Regulation and Obesity (ACERO), Rowett Research Institute, Greenburn Road, Bucksburn, Aberdeen AB21 9SB, UK
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16
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Shousha S, Nakahara K, Miyazato M, Kangawa K, Murakami N. Endogenous neuromedin U has anorectic effects in the Japanese quail. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2005; 140:156-63. [PMID: 15639143 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2004.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2004] [Revised: 11/05/2004] [Accepted: 11/09/2004] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Neuromedin U (NMU), which is a brain-gut peptide, was first isolated as a smooth-muscle-contracting peptide from the porcine spinal cord in 1985. Intracerebroventricular (icv) injection of NMU into rats significantly reduced the food intake during dark period, and increased oxygen consumption, locomotor activity, and body temperature suggested that NMU is an anorectic and catabolic signaling molecule in mammals. In this study, we elucidated the central role of NMU in avian species using Japanese quail. Gene cloning analysis revealed that the amino acid sequence of Japanese quail NMU has high homology with that of chick, and low homology with that of rat except the C-terminal biologically active region. RT-PCR analysis revealed that NMU mRNA was expressed in various central and peripheral tissues. Both intraperitoneal (ip) and icv administration of synthetic Japanese quail NMU resulted in a significant reduction in food intake and increase in body temperature and locomotor activity in Japanese quails. Conversely, the administration of rat NMU into Japanese quail resulted in the opposite effects on food intake, body temperature, and locomotor activity. These opposite results may indicate that rat NMU act as an antagonist toward the Japanese quail NMU receptor. These results suggest that endogenous NMU plays an important role in the regulation of food intake and body temperature in avian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saad Shousha
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki 889-2155, Japan
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17
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Brighton PJ, Szekeres PG, Willars GB. Neuromedin U and its receptors: structure, function, and physiological roles. Pharmacol Rev 2004; 56:231-48. [PMID: 15169928 DOI: 10.1124/pr.56.2.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 185] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuromedin U (NmU) is a structurally highly conserved neuropeptide. It is ubiquitously distributed, with highest levels found in the gastrointestinal tract and pituitary. Originally isolated from porcine spinal cord, it has since been isolated and sequenced from several species. Amino acid alignment of NmU from different species reveals a high level of conservation, and particular features within its structure are important for bioactivity. Specifically, the C terminus, including a terminal asparagine-linked amidation, is essential for activity. The conservation of NmU across a wide range of species indicates a strong evolutionary pressure to conserve this peptide and points to its physiological significance. Despite this, the precise physiological and indeed pathophysiological roles of NmU have remained elusive. NmU was first isolated based on its ability to contract rat uterine smooth-muscle (hence the suffix "U") and has since been implicated in the regulation of smooth-muscle contraction, blood pressure and local blood flow, ion transport in the gut, stress responses, cancer, gastric acid secretion, pronociception, and feeding behavior. Two G-protein-coupled receptors for NmU have recently been cloned. These receptors are widespread throughout the body but have differential distributions suggesting diverse but specific roles for the receptor subtypes. Here we detail the isolation and characterization of NmU, describe the discovery, cloning, distribution, and structure of its two receptors, and outline its possible roles in both physiology and pathophysiology. Ultimately the development of receptor-specific ligands and the generation of animals in which the receptors have been selectively knocked out will hopefully reveal the true extent of the biological roles of NmU and suggest novel therapeutic indications for selective activation or blockade of either of its receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Brighton
- Department of Cell Physiology and Pharmacology, Maurice Shock Medical Sciences Building, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 9HN United Kingdom
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18
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Thompson EL, Murphy KG, Todd JF, Martin NM, Small CJ, Ghatei MA, Bloom SR. Chronic administration of NMU into the paraventricular nucleus stimulates the HPA axis but does not influence food intake or body weight. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2004; 323:65-71. [PMID: 15351702 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2004.08.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2004] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Hypothalamic neuromedin U (NMU) appears to have a role in the regulation of appetite and the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Acute administration of NMU into the paraventricular nuclei (iPVN) increases plasma adrenocorticotrophic hormone and corticosterone, and inhibits food intake in fasted rats. No studies have as yet investigated the chronic effects of centrally administered NMU. We investigated the effect of twice-daily iPVN injections of 0.3 nmol NMU for 7 days on food intake, body weight, the HPA axis, and behavior in freely fed rats. Chronic iPVN NMU was not associated with a decrease in food intake or body weight. Chronic iPVN NMU produced a typical behavioral response on day 1 and day 4 of the study, and resulted in the elevation of plasma corticosterone present 18 h after the final injection. These results suggest NMU may have a role in the regulation of the HPA axis and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily L Thompson
- Division of Metabolic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, Hammersmith Campus, London W12 ONN, UK
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19
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Ivanov TR, Lawrence CB, Stanley PJ, Luckman SM. Evaluation of neuromedin U actions in energy homeostasis and pituitary function. Endocrinology 2002; 143:3813-21. [PMID: 12239092 DOI: 10.1210/en.2002-220121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The brain-gut peptide neuromedin U (NMU) has been identified recently as a physiological regulator of food intake. To further investigate the central role of NMU in energy homeostasis, we examined the distribution of NMU transcript and the effect of intracerebroventricular administration on several physiological parameters and on the pattern of c-Fos activation. Here we report that intracerebroventricular administration of NMU to 24-h fasted rats resulted in a decrease in subsequent food intake and body weight gain. NMU administration activated neurons in several brain regions implicated in the regulation of feeding behavior. Activated cells included catecholaminergic neurons of the arcuate nucleus and brain stem. Distribution studies revealed NMU expression in the caudal brain stem (nucleus of the solitary tract and inferior olive) and pituitary, with significant levels in the pars tuberalis. This contradicts earlier published observations. In obese (fa/fa) Zucker rats, decreases in NMU expression were detected in the nucleus of the solitary tract, pars tuberalis, and pars distalis, whereas in the fasted rat, a decrease in NMU transcript was detected in the pars distalis. These results confirm the effects of NMU on feeding and suggest additional roles for NMU in neuroendocrine function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina R Ivanov
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, United Kingdom M13 9PT
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20
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Funes S, Hedrick JA, Yang S, Shan L, Bayne M, Monsma FJ, Gustafson EL. Cloning and characterization of murine neuromedin U receptors. Peptides 2002; 23:1607-15. [PMID: 12217421 DOI: 10.1016/s0196-9781(02)00097-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Neuromedin U (NmU) is a neuropeptide involved in various physiological functions such as feeding behavior, muscle contractile activity, and regulation of intestinal ion transport. Recently, two human G protein-coupled receptors have been identified as NmU-specific receptors, NmU-R1 and NmU-R2, which share 55% amino acid identity. It is unclear however, which of the two receptors mediates responses to NmU observed in rodent models. Attempts to define the pharmacological profile of the two receptors are confounded by overlapping expression of the two receptors and a lack of subtype-selective compounds. In order to establish a basis to further our understanding of the function of these receptors, we cloned and characterized the mouse homologues of the two human NmU receptors. Mouse NmU-R1 and mouse NmU-R2 are 79 and 81% identical to their respective human homologues. Expression of NmU-R1 was mainly observed in testis, gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and immune system, while NmU-R2 was primarily expressed in brain tissues. Each mouse receptor was independently expressed in HEK293 cells and demonstrated a dose-dependent calcium flux in response to NmU-8, NmU-23 and NmU-25. In an attempt to identify a synthetic NmU peptide that would exhibit selectivity at one of the two receptors, we examined the functional activity of eight alanine-substituted NmU-8 peptides. These experiments demonstrated that alanine substitution at positions 5 and 7 affects the functional activity of the peptide at both receptors. The arginine residue at position 7 is required for NmU-8 activity at either receptor while alanine substitution at position 5 selectively affects the potency and the efficacy at mNmU-R1. These experiments validate the use of rodent models to characterize NmU function relative to humans and suggest that substitution at Arginine-5 of NmU-8 may provide a receptor selective peptide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandrine Funes
- Human Genome Research, Schering-Plough Research Institute, Kenilworth, NJ 07033, USA.
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21
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Szekeres PG, Muir AI, Spinage LD, Miller JE, Butler SI, Smith A, Rennie GI, Murdock PR, Fitzgerald LR, Wu HL, McMillan LJ, Guerrera S, Vawter L, Elshourbagy NA, Mooney JL, Bergsma DJ, Wilson S, Chambers JK. Neuromedin U is a potent agonist at the orphan G protein-coupled receptor FM3. J Biol Chem 2000; 275:20247-50. [PMID: 10811630 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.c000244200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuromedins are a family of peptides best known for their contractile activity on smooth muscle preparations. The biological mechanism of action of neuromedin U remains unknown, despite the fact that the peptide was first isolated in 1985. Here we show that neuromedin U potently activates the orphan G protein-coupled receptor FM3, with subnanomolar potency, when FM3 is transiently expressed in human HEK-293 cells. Neuromedins B, C, K, and N are all inactive at this receptor. Quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction analysis of neuromedin U expression in a range of human tissues showed that the peptide is highly expressed in the intestine, pituitary, and bone marrow, with lower levels of expression seen in stomach, adipose tissue, lymphocytes, spleen, and the cortex. Similar analysis of FM3 expression showed that the receptor is widely expressed in human tissue with highest levels seen in adipose tissue, intestine, spleen, and lymphocytes, suggesting that neuromedin U may have a wide range of presently undetermined physiological effects. The discovery that neuromedin U is an endogenous agonist for FM3 will significantly aid the study of the full physiological role of this peptide.
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Affiliation(s)
- P G Szekeres
- Departments of Vascular Biology and Gene Expression Sciences, New Frontiers Science Park, SmithKline Beecham Pharmaceuticals, Third Avenue, Harlow, Essex CM19 5AW, United Kingdom.
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22
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Maderdrut JL, Lázár G, Kozicz T, Merchenthaler I. Distribution of neuromedin U-like immunoreactivity in the central nervous system of Rana esculenta. J Comp Neurol 1996; 369:438-50. [PMID: 8743423 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1096-9861(19960603)369:3<438::aid-cne8>3.0.co;2-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The distribution of perikarya and nerve fibers containing neuromedin U-like immunoreactivity in the brain of Rana esculenta was determined with an antiserum directed toward the carboxyl terminus of the peptide. In the telencephalon, immunoreactive perikarya were found in the olfactory bulb, the medial septum, and the diagonal band. In the diencephalon, labeled perikarya were detected in the anterior and posterior preoptic areas, the dorsal nucleus of the hypothalamus, the caudal part of the infundibulum, and the posterior tuberculum. In the mesencephalon, immunoreactive cell bodies were found only in the laminar nucleus of the torus semicircularis and the anterodorsal tegmental nucleus. In the rhombencephalon, labeled perikarya were detected in the secondary visceral nucleus, the cerebellar nucleus, the central gray, and the nucleus of the solitary tract. Immunoreactive nerve fibers were observed in all areas of the brain that contained labeled perikarya. The densest accumulations were found in the nucleus accumbens; the dorsal part of the lateral septum; the periventricular region of the ventral thalamus; the lateral part of the infundibulum; the anterodorsal, anteroventral, posterodorsal, and posteroventral tegmental nuclei; and the periaqueductal region of the tegmentum. The distribution of neuromedin U-like immunoreactivity in the frog brain was substantially different from the distribution described for the rodent brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Maderdrut
- U.S.-Japan Biomedical Research Laboratories, Department of Medicine, Tulane University Hebert Center, Belle Chasse, Louisiana 70037, USA
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