Tryptophan is present in glial cells and photoreceptors in the chicken retina

Neuroreport
D V Pow, D K Cook

Abstract

Tryptophan is a large neutral amino acid which is utilized in the biosynthesis of neuroactive substances such as serotonin and melatonin. However, it has been unclear where pools of tryptophan might be localized. Using a specific antiserum against tryptophan, we demonstrate that in the chicken retina tryptophan is present in radial glial cells and photoreceptors, but not in other neuronal elements. These data suggest that serotonergic neurones are probably dependent upon the transfer of tryptophan from the glial cells in order to manufacture serotonin and other tryptophan derivatives in the brain. If glia do supply tryptophan to neurones then this process will have significant practical implications for our basic understanding of and pharmacological manipulation of serotonergic systems.

Citations

Jun 14, 2005·Experimental Eye Research·Abigail GeorgeDavid V Pow
Mar 15, 2001·Neurochemistry International·D V Pow
Apr 1, 1999·Journal of Pineal Research·C Alarcón de la LastraJ M Herrerías
Dec 16, 2005·Current Eye Research·Matthew J GastingerDavid W Marshak
Aug 13, 2015·Journal of Pineal Research·Charles-Hubert PaulinLaurence Besseau

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