Effects of bilateral splanchnic-nerve section and chemical sympathectomy on PACAP38 content in the rat adrenals

Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a basic 38-am ino acid regulatory peptide contained in the adrenal gland and involved in the control of its secretory activity. Bilateral splanchnic-nerve section c aused in the rat a significant decrease in PACAP38 adrenal content and conc entration. as measured by RIA. In contrast, chemical sympathectomy, obtaine d by administering newborn rats with 6-hydroxy-dopamine, was ineffective. O ur findings support the view that splanchnic nerves play an important role in the control of rat adrenal function.