EXPRESSION OF NADPH-DIAPHORASE IN THE RAT FOREBRAIN DURING DEVELOPMENT

Expression of NADPH-diaphorase (NADPH-d) was studied in the rat telenc ephalon and diencephalon from embryonic day 15 (E15) to postnatal day 30 (P30). The study has focused on the first appearance of NADPH-d sta ining in some areas which show high expression during adult life. The time of appearance ranged from E15 to the first days following birth, depending on the location of the cells. In many regions, neuronal proc esses, when staining appeared, were observed in close relationship wit h cerebral vessels. A possible role for nitric oxide in brain developm ent should be explored.