Reserpine induction of tyrosine hydroxylase in paraplegia.

Reserpine induction of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) activity reflects the biochemical adaptability of sympathetic neurons. Midthoracic spinal cord transection in adult animals precludes TH induction in the sixth lumbar (L6) ganglion, a ganglion innervated by spinal segments caudal to the lesion. However, in animals receiving lesions as neonates, an elevation in L6 ganglion TH activity occurred after reserpine. This retained biochemical adaptability indicates an increased recuperative capacity of developing neurons.