Calretinin-immunoreactive neurons in the claustrum of the guinea pig. Issue 1 (15th December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Druga, Rastislav; Salaj, Martin; Edelstein, Lawrence
• Is Part Of: Claustrum. Volume 2:Issue 1(2017)
• Publication Date: 2017-12-15
• Subjects: Claustrum -- endopiriform nucleus -- calcium-binding proteins -- calretinin -- calretinin immunoreactivity -- guinea pig; Claustrum -- Periodicals; 611.81
• DOI: 10.1080/20023294.2016.1273650
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2002-3294

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Background: The claustrum is present in all mammalian species. Many aspects of its morphology and function remain subject to debate. It has been suggested that calcium-binding proteins influence neuronal activity in many structures. Objective: The aim was to examine CR immunoreactivity in the claustrum of guinea pigs and compare it with that in other mammals. Design: CR immunoreactivity in the claustrum was analyzed in five guinea pigs using immunohistochemical techniques. The distribution of CR-positive neurons in the dorsal claustrum and endopiriform nucleus (END), and their morphological characteristics were described. Results: CR immunostaining in the dorsal claustrum and END of the guinea pig consisted of CR-positive neurons, fibers, and puncta of varying labeling density. The majority of these neurons displayed small- or medium-sized round, oval, and multipolar cell bodies with aspiny dendrites. CR-ir neurons prevailed in the periphery of both divisions. The dorsal claustrum was seen to have a weakly CR-ir central core surrounded by a rim of moderately positive neuropil. Conclusion: CR immunoreactivity in the guinea pig claustrum was not as diffuse as in higher mammals, but non-uniformity was evident. CR-ir neurons are distributed in both the dorsal claustrum and END, mostly in the periphery.