Summary
An α-MSH-like immunoreactivity has been localized in the neural gland of the ascidian Styela plicata. In particular, immunoreactive cells occur in some lobules and are weakly lead-haematoxylin positive.
On the basis of the results, the homology of the ascidian neural gland with the vertebrate adenohyphysis is suggested and discussed. Furthermore, some hypotheses are presented about the possible functions of α-MSH-like material in ascidians.
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This work was supported by a grant from the Ministero della Pubblica Istruzione (60%)
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Pestarino, M. Localization of α-MSH-like immunoreactive cells in the neural gland of the ascidian Styela plicata . Cell Tissue Res. 240, 497–500 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00222367
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00222367