Immunohistochemical demonstration of the localization of corticotropin releasing factor-containing neurons in the hypothalamus of mammals including primates.

The presence of the CRF-containing neurons in the hypothalamus was investigated in four different species (cats, dogs, pigs, and monkeys) by the peroxidase-antiperoxidase technique using specific antiserum to CRF. In all animals examined, CRF-containing perikarya were found mainly in the paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei, and a small number of the immunoreactive cells were observed in the accessory supraoptic nucleus and the lateral hypothalamic area. The size of the CRF-containing perikarya ranged from 20-35 micron in diameter. These findings suggest that the magnocellular paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei are the center not only of the classical neurosecretory system for the production of the posterior lobe hormones, but also that of the CRF neuronal system.