Selectivity in the reinnervation of iris and adrenal medulla by superior cervical ganglion after transplantation under the kidney capsule

Abstract

Cat iris and adrenal medulla were transplanted together with the superior cervical ganglion under the kidney capsule. The space between the kidney capsule and the cortical parenchyma was found to be a suitable space in which to study nerve regeneration and reinnervation. One month after transplantation, the histological and electron microscopical survey showed an adequate survival of all transplanted tissues. When both iris and ganglion were transplanted together, a regenerated postganglionic nerve trunk reinnervating the smooth muscle of the iris was found. Such a nerve trunk contained fluorescent and acetylcholinesterase-positive fibers. In contrast to the iris, no innervation was observed when adrenal medulla was transplanted together with the superior cervical ganglion. These findings were confirmed by electron microscopic observations. Specific trophic interaction between ganglionic neurons and target tissues is suggested.