Tubulin messenger RNA: in situ hybridization reveals bilateral increases in hypoglossal and facial nuclei following nerve transection.

We have examined the levels of mRNA coding for tubulin in cranial nerve motor nuclei following axotomy using in situ hybridization histochemistry. Following division of their peripheral axons, the neurons in the facial and hypoglossal nuclei show increased levels of tubulin mRNA both ipsilateral and contralateral to the lesion. Tubulin in situ hybridization histochemistry provides a sensitive technique to monitor dynamics of neuronal regrowth or sprouting in the peripheral and possibly the central nervous system.