Gene expression and chemical diversity in hypothalamic neurosecretory neurons.

Hypothalamic neurosecretory neurons transcribe, translate, store, and secrete a large number of chemical messengers. The neurons contain hypothalamic signal substances that regulate the secretion of anterior pituitary hormones as well as the neurohypophysial peptides vasopressin and oxytocin. In addition to the classical hypophysiotropic hormones, a large number of neuropeptides and classical transmitters of amine and amino acid nature are present in the same cells. This is particularly evident in the magnocellular neurons of the supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei, and in parvocellular neurons of the arcuate and paraventricular nuclei. The changes in gene expression induced by experimental manipulations and the colocalization chemical messengers in hypothalamic neurosecretory neurons and its possible significance is summarized in this review.