Vasculature of the paraphysis cerebri of the frog

The paraphysis cerebri is a glandular structure found in the third ventricle of lower vertebrates. It is well-developed in amphibians and reptiles. The function of the gland is not substantiated, but may play a role in calcium metabolism. To further elucidate its possible endocrine role, the paraphyseal vasculature was examined using casting techniques as well as transmission electron microscopy. Perfusion-fixed paraphyses of Rana pipiens and Rana catesbeiana were either: a) cast with Microfil (with subsequent dehydration, clearing, and macroscopic examination) or Batson's compound (followed by tissue digestion and examination by scanning electron microscopy); or b) processed for transmission electron microscopy. The paraphyseal capillary bed consists of a sinusoidal portal system which receives afferent blood from its associated choroid plexus. The choroid plexus of the third ventricle receives its blood supply via arterioles from the posterior telencephalic artery. These arterioles traverse in the periphery of the paraphysis to branch and supply the choroid plexus. Numerous venules exit from the choroid plexus and drain into sinusoids of the paraphysis. The sinusoid venules appear to empty into a midline venous structure which passes tangentially through the paraphysis. The sinusoids consist of fenestrated endothelium which is indicative of transport vessels. Nerve fibers were observed in the paraphysis, however, histofluorescence revealed no monoaminergic sympathetic innervation of the paraphyseal vasculature.