Aspects of the arrangement of the adrenergic innervation in guinea-pigs as revealed by the fluorescence histochemical method applied to stretched,air-dried preparations

Summary The suitability of stretched, air-dried preparations for the fluorescence histochemical localization of catecholamines has been examined for a range of organs, including atrium, arteries, veins, digestive tract, urinogenital organs and sympathetic ganglia of the guinea-pig. Where possible, the tissue is divided into thin sheets under a dissecting microscope. It is then stretched over a glass slide to which it adheres as it dries. Stretch preparations can be easily and quickly prepared for the fluorescence localization of catecholamines and give clear and consistent results with many adrenergically innervated tissues. This technique allows the branching of adrenergic nerve trunks and of individual fibres to be readily followed. The relationships between fluorescent cells and other tissue elements can be traced quickly in situations where serial sections through the tissue would otherwise be necessary.