The Python pit organ: imaging and immunocytochemical analysis of an extremely sensitive natural infrared detector1This paper was presented at the Fifth World Congress on Biosensors, Berlin, Germany, 3–5 June 1998.1

摘要: The Python infrared-sensitive pit organ is a natural infrared imager that combines high sensitivity, ambient temperature function, microscopic dimensions, and self-repair. We are investigating the spectral sensitivity signal transduction process in snake neurons, neither of which understood. For example, it unknown whether receptor neurons function on thermal or photic mechanism. imaged organs living molurus regius using digital video cameras. Pit were significantly more absorptive and/or emissive than surrounding tissues both 3-5 microns 8-12 wavelength ranges. exhibited greater absorption/emissivity range range. To directly test relationship between photoreceptors we performed immunocytochemistry antisera directed against retinal photoreceptor opsins. Retinal labeled with specific for opsins, but these failed to label terminals organ. Infrared-receptive also distinguished from basis their calcium-binding protein content. These results indicate absorbs radiation two major atmospheric transmission windows, one (8-12 microns) matches emission targeted prey, receptors biochemically distinct photoreceptors. provide first identification prospective biochemical components neurons.