The Mesencephalic Trigeminal Nucleus in the Cat (Advances in Anatomy, Embryology and Cell Biology) (Volume 153)

The book summarizes our current understanding of the ultrastructure and synaptic organization of the mesencephalic trigeminal nucleus (MTN) in the cat as well as the neurochemistry of its neuronal population. Particular emphasis is given to the survey of synaptic connections and the possible physiological involvement of MTN inputs in the transmission of proprioceptive information. Using immunocytochemistry and in situ hybridization histochemistry we have identified distinct neuronal, partly chemically coded MTN subpopulations - large glutamatergic and smaller GABAergic neurons. We also show that MTN receive catecholaminergic and peptidergic innervation. The levels of transmitter substances vary according to the environmental conditions thus implying the neurochemical plasticity of MTN neurons.