Three-dimensional structure of the mammalian suprachiasmatic nuclei: a comparative study of five species

J Comp Neurol. 1982 Jan 20;204(3):225-37. doi: 10.1002/cne.902040303.

Abstract

The suprachiasmatic nuclei from five mammalian species (rat, hamster, cat, rhesus, and squirrel monkey) were reconstructed in three-dimensions by use of computer graphics and conventional histological techniques. The gross nuclear structures of the suprachiasmatic nuclei have complex three-dimensional geometries in every plane of orientation, and between the five species there are marked differences in the three-dimensional morphology of the suprachiasmatic nuclei. These dimensionally accurate reconstructions are discussed in relation to previous data suggesting morphological and/or functional specialization within specific regions of the suprachiasmatic nuclei.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cats
  • Cricetinae
  • Data Display
  • Hypothalamus / anatomy & histology*
  • Hypothalamus, Anterior / anatomy & histology*
  • Macaca mulatta
  • Mammals / anatomy & histology*
  • Rats
  • Saimiri
  • Species Specificity