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TSH expression in murine hypophyseal pars tuberalis-specific cells
J Bockmann1, M R Kreutz, W Wittkowski
1AG Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Institute of Anatomy, University of Münster, Germany.
Acta Anatomica
|January 1, 1997
Summary
The mouse hypophyseal pars tuberalis (PT) expresses thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) subunits, similar to rats and hamsters. Mouse PT-specific cells show unique ultrastructural differences but share TSH expression, suggesting a conserved role in light-dark signaling.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Cell Biology
- Chronobiology
Background:
- The hypophyseal pars tuberalis (PT) is implicated in transducing photoperiodic information to the endocrine system.
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) subunits are expressed in PT-specific cells in rats and hamsters, distinct from pars distalis thyrotropes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if TSH subunit expression is a common feature of PT-specific cells in mice.
- To characterize the cellular morphology and TSH subunit expression in the mouse PT.
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy
- Immunocytochemistry
- In situ hybridization
Main Results:
- Mouse PT-specific cells exhibit enlarged secretory granules compared to other species.
- TSH subunit mRNA and protein were detected in the pars distalis thyrotropes and throughout the mouse PT cell layer.
- Mouse PT-specific cells share TSH subunit expression despite distinct ultrastructural morphology.
Conclusions:
- Mouse PT-specific cells are characterized by TSH subunit expression, even with unique ultrastructural features.
- The physiological role of TSH in PT-specific cells requires further investigation.
- The potential for other secretory products in PT-specific cells remains to be elucidated.