Representation of cutaneous afferents by fluoride-resistant acid phosphatase (FRAP)-active terminals in the rat substantia gelatinosa rolandi.

While transection of the sciatic nerve results in a complete ipsilateral extinction of FRAP activity in respective segments of the rat spinal cord, cutaneous denervation of the hind leg induces a patchy disappearance of this same enzyme in the Rolando substance. The possible participation of FRAP in metabolism of the primary sensory transmitter substance, its relation to substance P and its involvement in gating mechanisms are discussed.