Serotoninergic activity stimulates melanin dispersion within dermal melanophores of newts |
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Authors: | L J Miller |
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Institution: | Department of Biology, Gannon University, Erie, PA 16541. |
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Abstract: | Systemic injections of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), the precursor to serotonin, stimulates melanin dispersion within dermal melanophores of red-spotted newts (Notophthalmus viridescens). Injections of para-Chlorophenylalanine (PCPA), an inhibitor of serotonin synthesis, inhibited melanin dispersion, and hence darkening of the skin, when newts were transferred to a dark background. The results indicate a role for serotoninergic activity in the background adaptation response in this amphibian. |
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