A system of cells in the unstimulated rat brain characterized by preferential accumulation of [3H]deoxyglucose.

An autoradiographic technique using cryostat sections is described which permits visualization of a system of small, probably glial cells accumulating 2-[3H]deoxyglucose (2-[3H]DG). These cells are localized mainly in periventricular regions and in certain parts of white matter. Deoxyglucose uptake of these cells is not influenced by various experimental conditions. An attempt to demonstrate by this technique activation of hypothalamic neurosecretory centers following water withdrawal for 3 days was unsuccessful.