Localization of specific neurotensin binding sites in the rat adrenal gland.

Specific tritiated neurotensin binding sites were localized in the rat adrenal gland by receptor autoradiography and characterized using a tissue homogenate receptor binding assay. High levels of specific neurotensin binding sites were found in the inner layer of the adrenal cortex and lower amounts in the adrenal medulla with only background labeling in the outer cortical layers. The structure-activity profile of the specific neurotensin binding was consistent with binding to a physiological neurotensin receptor.