ACTH-related peptide containing neurons within the medulla oblongata of the rat

Neurons containing antigenic determinants of 16 Kdalton fragment, ACTH, gamma-LPH, and beta-endorphin have been identified in the nucleus tractus solitarius and lateral reticular formation of the rat brainstem. Immunoreactive fibers extend longitudinally in dorsal and ventral midline tracts throughout the length of the brainstem, and are also concentrated in lateral reticular regions known to contain catecholamine nuclei. ACTH-containing neurons could participate with brainstem catecholamine cell groups in controlling visceral function.