DEVELOPMENTAL-CHANGES IN NMDA RECEPTOR EXPRESSION IN THE PLATYFISH BRAIN

We have examined the distribution of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) r eceptor in the brain of a freshwater teleost using an antibody against the R1 subunit of the receptor (NMDAR1). The primary site of localiza tion was the nucleus olfactoretinalis (NOR), a significant gonadotropi n releasing hormone (GnRH)-containing brain nucleus. The number of cel ls expressing NMDAR1 in this nucleus was dependent upon developmental stage, with pubescent and mature animals displaying significantly more stained cells than immature and senescent animals. This is the First reported observation of age-and maturity-related NMDA receptor associa tion with GnRH-containing brain areas. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.