Distribution of angiotensin II binding sites in the mouse thalamus: receptor-binding study with fluorescent coupled peptides and their conversion to a light stable product

Fluorescence-coupled peptides allow a non-radioactive receptor binding stud y whereby single cells can be examined under a fluorescence microscope. By the combination of such a method with immunohistochemistry, using an HRP-co upled anti-fluorescein antibody, a permanent labeling can be achieved. By u sing this method the distribution of angiotensin II binding sites has been examined in the mouse thalamus. The results show that a moderate staining w as obvious within the thalamus and that the distribution of binding sites i n the thalamus is very homogenous in the mouse brain. In detail, angiotensi n II binding sites were found in the anterodorsal nucleus, in the laterodor sal and posterior nucleus of the thalamus, as well as in the lateral genicu late nucleus, the reticular thalamic nucleus and in the zona incerta. (C) 1 999 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.