Pedicle and antler development following sectioning of the sensory nerves to the antlerogenic region of red deer (Cervus elaphus)

Abstract

Sensory nerves supplying the deer antlerogenic region were sectioned about 60 days prior to pedicle initiation to determine the extent of neural influence on pedicle and first antler growth. Our results from a combination of histological examination and immunohistochemical localization showed that all 12 antlerogenic regions were successfully deprived of sensory nerve supply, but in 10 of 12 cases there was partial regeneration during the experimental period. In the two cases where no sensory reinnervation occurred, pedicle growth did not show any differences compared with partially sensory reinnervated or intact pedicles. With or without reduced sensory nerve supply, first antlers were initiated, grown, cleaned of velvet, cast, and regenerated in the normal way, but they were smaller than controls. Consequently, we conclude that a sensory nerve supply is not necessary for normal pedicle formation and for the first antler cycle, but plays a role in determining antler size.