The neuroendocrine system in hibernating mammals: present knowledge and open questions

The present review describes the distribution and the function-dependent reactivity pattern of those peptidergic and aminergic components of the neuroendocrine system of hibernating mammals that have been studied by histological, pharmacological and physiological techniques. Particular attention has been paid to the intrinsic connectivity of the peptidergic apparatus and its input systems. Since the reactivity patterns of the neuroendocrine system show remarkable fluctuations in relation to the various stages of hibernation and euthermia, these fluctuations have been analyzed with respect to (1) their causative role in the regulation of hibernation and (2) their secondary response to physiological changes during hibernation. The author's investigations described in this review have mainly been performed in European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus), European and golden hamsters (Cricetus cricetus, Mesocricetus auratus), dormice (Glis glis), and in Richardson's and Columbian ground squirrels (Spermophilus richardsonii, Spermophilus columbianus), by the use of light- and electron-microscopic immunocytochemistry and histochemistry, in situ hybridization, radioimmunoassays and stereotaxically guided application techniques. These experiments were also performed in hypothermic animals. The (partially published) results obtained by the author and his associates are reviewed with reference to the body of evidence found in the recent literature. With respect to their reactivity patterns, several neuropeptide and transmitter systems can be regarded as candidates for control systems of hibernation. Neuronal complexes immunoreactive for endogenous opiates, in particular enkephalin, and also for vaspressin, somatostatin, substance P, corticotropin-releasing factor and serotonin are probably involved in the neuroendocrine control of hibernation.Dedicated to the memory of Dr. Gesa Merker