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Leech Retzius cells and 5-hydroxytryptamine.

L D Leake

    Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology. C, Comparative Pharmacology and Toxicology
    |January 1, 1986
    PubMed
    Summary
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    Giant Retzius (R) cells in leeches contain serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine or 5-HT). These cells modulate various tissues, optimizing leech feeding behavior.

    Area of Science:

    • Neuroscience
    • Animal Physiology
    • Biochemistry

    Background:

    • Leeches possess giant Retzius (R) cells in their segmental ganglia containing 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT).
    • These R cells are unique in the leech central nervous system for projecting neuronal branches to peripheral tissues.
    • Peripheral tissues like muscles, heart, reproductive organs, nephridia, and gut exhibit 5-HT-like immunoreactive nerve fibers.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the role and function of Retzius cells and their 5-HT content in leech physiology.
    • To understand how R cells modulate peripheral tissue activity.
    • To determine the contribution of R cells to overall leech behavior, particularly feeding.

    Main Methods:

    • Immunohistochemistry to identify 5-HT localization in R cells and peripheral tissues.

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  • Electrophysiological recordings to study the effects of R cell stimulation.
  • Pharmacological manipulation to assess the impact of 5-HT on tissue activity.

    • Main Results:

    • Stimulation of 5-HT and/or R cells leads to relaxation of body wall muscle basal tension and reduced relaxation times.
    • Pharyngeal movements and salivary gland secretion are enhanced by R cell activity.
    • Muscle movements in posterior gut regions and the reproductive tract are inhibited by R cell stimulation.

    Conclusions:

    • Retzius cells are multifunctional neurons in leeches.
    • These neurons play a crucial role in modulating diverse peripheral tissues, including muscles, glands, and organs.
    • R cell activity is hypothesized to optimize leech feeding behavior by coordinating various physiological processes.