Neurotrophin receptors in taste buds of adult zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Neurosci Lett. 2004 Jan 16;354(3):189-92. doi: 10.1016/j.neulet.2003.10.017.

Abstract

TrkB plays crucial roles in the development and maintenance of taste buds in mammals. In this study we investigated the presence and cell localization of Trks (TrkA, TrkB and TrkC) in taste buds of the zebrafish (Danio rerio) using Western blot and immunohistochemistry. Proteins of 140 and 145 kDa, identified as full-length TrkA and TrkB, were detected. Conversely, the anti-TrkC antibody recognized a protein lower than expected (100 kDa). In agreement with these results the sensory cells of taste buds, displayed TrkA- and TrkB-like, but not TrkC-like, immunoreactivity. TrkA and TrkB co-existed in the same taste buds, but remains to be clarified whether or not they are co-expressed in the same cells. Present results demonstrate that as for mammals neurotrophins might play a role in sensory cells of the teleostean taste buds.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Blotting, Western / methods
  • Immunohistochemistry / methods
  • Receptors, Nerve Growth Factor / metabolism*
  • Taste Buds / anatomy & histology
  • Taste Buds / metabolism*
  • Zebrafish

Substances

  • Receptors, Nerve Growth Factor