Catecholaminergic input to the oxytocin neurosecretory system in the human hypothalamus.

摘要: Previous studies revealed that oxytocin release is increased by various forms of stress. Hypertonic saline injection, immobilization, and several other stressors elevated the blood level in rats. However, mechanism stress-induced human not elucidated yet. Although numerous indicate catecholamines play a pivotal role modulating oxytocin, there lack data regarding morphological substrate this phenomenon. In order to reveal putative juxtapositions between tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive (TH-IR) catecholaminergic oxytocinergic systems hypothalamus, we utilized double-label immunohistochemistry present study. Numerous TH-IR axon varicosities abutted on oxytocin-IR neurons supraoptic paraventricular nuclei, forming synapse-like associations. Close examination these with high magnification failed any gaps contacting elements. summary, intimate associations elements may be functional synapses represent stress-influenced release. The finding perikarya did receive apparent TH innervation suggests additional mechanisms significant roles modulation stressors.