EXPRESSION OF CORTICOTROPIN-RELEASING FACTOR IN THE PERIPHERAL NERVOUS-SYSTEM OF THE RAT

THE occurrence and distribution of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF ) in the rat peripheral nervous system was studied by immunohistochemi stry. CRF-positive nerve fibers were identified in the spleen, thymus, synovial membrane of the knee joint and adrenal gland. In general, CR F-positive fibers were seen predominantly in and around the blood vess els; however, many non-vascular thin varicose fibers were also observe d. The neuronal character of the immunoreactive fibers was confirmed b y staining consecutive tissue sections with a general neuronal marker, protein gene product 9.5. The finding of CRF-positive nerve fibers in the periphery demonstrates a strong anatomical link between the nervo us, endocrine and immune systems, and may have pathophysiological impl ications in the inflammatory and stress-related disorders.