The serotoninergic system in Cryptomphalus aspersa. Immunocytochemical study with an anti-5-HT antiserum.

Abstract

This immunocytochemical study of 5-HT neurons and fibers in the nervous system of C. aspersa corroborate previous findings and describe new 5-HT neurons and their connections, mainly between the central nervous system and the tentacular sensory organs. We found a number of networks, fascicles, and neurons that show constant and symmetrical location. Three networks were found at the tip of the posterior tentacle: underlying the olfactory epithelium, in the neuropil of the tentacular ganglion (TG), and in the ocular capsule. The TG also contains a ventral 5-HT fascicle. A group of 30-40 serotoninergic fibers run through the tentacular connective from the postcerebrum to the tentacular ganglion. This 5-HT fascicle has a lateral position in the postcerebrum (lateral fascicle of the postcerebrum) and a subcortical location in the procerebrum (subcortical fascicle of the procerebrum). The optic nerve also has a small group of 5-HT fibers. Seven serotoninergic neurons were found in each cerebral ganglion: two giant neurons, one medium-sized, and four small neurons. Three different types of fascicles are in the postcerebrum: fascicles proceeding from the suboesophageal connectives, a lateral fascicle, and a commisural fascicle. Each cerebral ganglion region (pro-, meso- and postcerebrum) has a 5-HT network with a particular pattern of distribution and morphology. The suboesophageal ganglia show the highest concentration of 5-HT neurons (large, medium-sized, and small neurons).