Abstract
GAP-43-immunolabelled structures were visualized by electron microscopy in the adult rat L4-L5 superficial dorsal horn 2 weeks after sciatic nerve transection. The majority of immunolabelled elements were unmyelinated axons, but some synaptic terminals and myelinated axons also labelled. The labelled unmyelinated axons were commonly located in prominent bundles which on serial section analysis could be followed into larger single trunks. These enlargements contain many organelles and give rise to smaller processes, which is compatible with their being growth cones. Sciatic nerve transection may result, therefore, in central regenerative processes which reorganize the neuropil and contribute to the decreased sensibility and pain that follows peripheral nerve section.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Afferent Pathways / physiology*
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Animals
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Axons / physiology*
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Axons / ultrastructure
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Dendrites / physiology
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Dendrites / ultrastructure
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Denervation
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GAP-43 Protein
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Growth Substances / metabolism
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Membrane Glycoproteins / analysis
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Membrane Glycoproteins / metabolism*
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Microscopy, Immunoelectron
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Models, Neurological
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Nerve Fibers, Myelinated / physiology
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Nerve Fibers, Myelinated / ultrastructure
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Nerve Tissue Proteins / analysis
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Nerve Tissue Proteins / metabolism*
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Rats
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Sciatic Nerve / physiology*
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Spinal Cord / physiology*
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Spinal Cord / ultrastructure
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Synapses / physiology
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Synapses / ultrastructure
Substances
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GAP-43 Protein
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Growth Substances
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Membrane Glycoproteins
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Nerve Tissue Proteins