Choline potentiates the trans-synaptic induction of adrenal tyrosine hydroxylase by reserpine probably by enhancing the release of acetylcholine

Abstract

Choline or reserpine causes a trans-synaptic induction of adrenal tyrosine hydroxylase activity. To examine further the relationship between impulse flow, mediated by reserpine, and the effects of choline, we injected rats with both agents concurrently. Their simultaneous administration elevated tyrosine hydroxylase activity to a level higher than the increase caused by either agent alone. These observations suggest that reserpine acts by increasing the rate of impulse flow, while choline acts by increasing the amount of ACh released per impulse.