Frank Baldino

Localization of Nerve Growth Factor Receptor mRNA in the Rat Basal Forebrain with in Situ Hybridization Histochemistry

Summary1.In situ hybridization histochemistry was used to localize nerve growth factor receptor (NGFR) mRNA in the adult rat basal forebrain.2.In emulsion-dipped sections35S-labeled RNA antisense probes produced a high density of silver grains over cells located in the medial septum, vertical and horizontal limbs of the diagonal band of Broca, and nucleus basalis.3.This distribution of NGFR mRNA overlaps with the distribution of NGFR protein localized using immunocytochemical techniques.4.No hybridization signal was detected when sections were hybridized with a35S-labeled RNA sense (control) probe.5.We suggest that NGFRs are synthesized in these basal forebrain nuclei and transported to terminal areas where NGF is thought to be bound and internalized, an initial step in the many actions of this neurotrophic factor.

In situ Hybridization Histochemistry as a Tool for the Study of Brain Function

In situ hybridization histochemistry has become a powerful tool for the study of specific peptide or protein biosynthesis at the level of the single neuron. Although this technique has also frequently been used to confirm immunoreactive neurons as the actual site of biosynthesis (e.g. Gee et al., 1983), the greatest utility is apparent in studies of altered gene expression in development or pathology, or due to physiological or pharmacological manipulations (Gee and Roberts, 1983). The goal of this chapter is to provide the reader with essential background information for understanding the technology of in situ hybridization histochemistry and then describe some of its applications, to help the reader to appreciate the potential utility of this technology for the analysis of brain function and its disorders.

Enzyme Histochemical Detection of Specific Neuronal mRNAs in Brain

The study of gene expression has been greatly facilitated by many recent advances in the technology of in situ hybridization histochemistry. The purpose of this report is to familiarize investigators