Uptake of peroxidase from the third ventricle by ependymal cells of the median eminence

Summary Peroxidase injected into the subarachnoid space in mice is absorbed by ependymal cells of the median eminence. The ependymal cells of the median eminence of the rat and Japanese quail absorb peroxidase injected into the third ventricle. The processes of these ependymal cells terminate at the capillaries of the primary plexus or those surrounding the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus. In all three species, peroxidase is absorbed by the ependymal cells of the paraventricular organ and by those in close proximity to it. Some ependymal cells send processes to the capillaries in the lateral nucleus of the hypothalamus. These phenomena are discussed in relation to adenohypophysial function.A part of this investigation was effected while the senior author held a Visiting Professorship at the University of Giessen [Department of Anatomy (Professor A. Oksche, Director)].