CYSTIC-FIBROSIS MESSENGER-RNA EXPRESSION IN RAT-BRAIN - CEREBRAL-CORTEX AND MEDIAL PREOPTIC AREA

CYSTIC fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) mRNA expres sion has been found in the medial preoptic area using in situ hybridiz ation, addressing the possibility of CFTR regulation of sexual maturat ion and reproductive behaviour. CFTR mRNA has also been found in the c ortical deep pyramidal layer V implying possible involvement of CFTR i n 'motor' function and output control over bodily movements and secret ion. CFTR production in the brain regions observed in this study impli cate involvement of CFTR in cerebral control over motor/visceral and e ndocrine systems.