Hypothalamic neurotoxins alter the content of immunoreactive cholecystokinin in pituitary.

Monosodium glutamate and bipiperidyl mustard both produce mediobasal hypothalamic lesions and have been reported to alter the subsequent feeding behavior and/or insulin levels of treated animals. In our previous studies bipiperidyl mustard alone had no effects on insulin levels or feeding, but in combination with glutamate produced hyperphagic obesity. Administration of exogenous cholecystokinin octapeptide also has been shown to affect feeding behavior and plasma insulin. In order to determine if endogenous cholecystokinin played a role in the effects of glutamate or bipiperidyl mustard, concentrations of cholecystokinin in the pituitary glands of lesioned rats were measured. Bipiperidyl mustard alone increased cholecystokinin content while combined lesioning with glutamate prevented the increase. The potential role of cholecystokinin-containing elements of the hypothalamus and pituitary in modulation of feeding is discussed.