Distribution of Lys-gamma 2-melanocyte-stimulating hormone- (Lys-gamma 2-MSH)-like immunoreactivity in neuronal elements in the brain and peripheral tissues of the rat.

Using an antiserum raised against Lys- gamma 2-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (Lys- gamma 2-MSH), with a high specificity for this peptide and its des-Lys derivative, gamma 2-MSH, we found Lys- gamma 2-MSH-like immunoreactivity to have a widespread distribution in the rat brain. In colchicine-treated rats, groups of immunopositive cell bodies were found in the intermediate and anterior lobes of the pituitary gland, in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus and in the commissural part of the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS). Immunopositive fibers were found to originate from the latter two cell body regions. The distribution of these fibers was similar to that of the pro-opiomelanocortin containing cell bodies and projections as it has been described previously. Immunopositive terminals were found in brain region containing neurons which have been shown to express mRNA for melanocortin receptors, though the distribution of Lys-gamma 2-MSH-like immunoreactivity is considerably more widespread than that of mRNA for the 'gamma-MSH receptor' (the melanocortin MC3 receptor), which has been reported to be mainly expressed in the hypothalamus. In the periphery Lys-gamma 2-MSH immunoreactivity was localized in the adrenal medulla and in neuronal fibers and varicosities in the heart. The vascular system, the bronchi and kidney were immunonegative. The occurrence of Lys-gamma 2-MSH immunoreactivity in many of the brain regions which are involved in cardiovascular regulation offers leads for further studies on the putative role of gamma-MSHs in cardiovascular control. The occurrence in the rat heart of Lys-gamma 2-MSH-containing fibers suggests a role of the gamma-MSHs in cardiac function.