Distribution of neurotensin-like immunoreactive cell bodies and fibers in the brainstem of the adult male cat

Abstract

We studied the distribution of cell bodies and fibers containing neurotensin in the brainstem of the cat using an indirect immunoperoxidase technique. A high or moderate density of immunoreactive perikarya was found in the interpeduncular nucleus, inferior colliculus, nucleus of the brachium of the inferior colliculus and in the lateral tegmental field. Moreover, a high density of neurotensin-immunoreactive fibers was observed in the periaqueductal gray, locus coeruleus and in the marginal nucleus of the brachium conjunctivum. The interpeduncular nucleus, nucleus of the solitary tract and the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus contained a moderate density of immunoreactive fibers.