[Immunocytochemical detection of substances related to methionine enkephalin in the tentacles and food of the snail (Helix aspersa)].

Immunocytochemistry reveals the presence of methionine-enkephalin-like substance(s) in the collar cells of the two kinds of tentacles and in the foot of the snail Helix aspersa. The density of the immunoreactive material is higher in young animals than in adults. The greater part of the substance(s) is released at the surface of the epidermis and probably mixed with the mucus. A possible neuroendocrine and/or neuromodulatory function can be considered especially for the collar cells connected with the tentacular ganglia.