Abstract
The distribution of sulphur in one ultrastructural type of neurosecretory cell (NSC) from the brain of the bug Rhodnius prolixus is investigated by X-ray microanalysis. In NSC in a storage phase, sulphur is concentrated in neurosecretory granules to about 17 times its level in adjacent neurons. However, the sulphur content of the cytoplasm of the NSC is considerably lower than that of adjacent neurons, so that the overall sulphur content of the NSC is only about four times that of adjacent neurons. Under these conditions the sulphur metabolism of the NSC is apparently more heavily devoted to the secretory function of the cell than comparison with other neurons would suggest. The high sulphur content of granules is attributed primarily to the presence of sulphur-rich protein. It is suggested that this protein may be analogous to vertebrate neurophysin. Analysis of the quantity and distribution of sulphur-containing compounds within NSC by X-ray microanalysis is suggested as the basis of a method for estimating relative rates of synthesis of neurosecretory products.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
