Immunocytochemical identification of neural elements in the central nervous systems of a snail, some insects, a fish, and a mammal with an antiserum to the molluscan cardio-excitatory tetrapeptide FMRF-amide.

With an antiserum to the molluscan cardio-excitatory tetrapeptide FMRF-amide neurons and/or nerve fibers were immunocytochemically identified in the central nervous systems of a snail (Lymnaea stagnalis), some insects (Leptinotarsa decemlineata, Periplaneta americana, Locusta migratoria, Pieris brassicae), a fish (Poecilia latipinna) and a mammal (mouse). The fact that immunoreactive material was observed in neurohaemal organs (corpora cardiaca of the insects) as well as in axon terminals ending on other neurons, seems to indicate that this peptide can function as a neurohormone and/or as a neurotransmitter. The results sustain the hypothesis that biologically active peptides have a wide distribution in the animal kingdom.