Distribution of SP- and CGRP-immunoreactivity in the cat's larynx

Abstract

The distribution of substance P (SP) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) immunoreactive (ir) fibres in the cat's larynx was investigated utilizing immunohistochemistry. Many SP- and CGRP-ir fibres with varicosities were found within and below the epithelium and along the basement membrane of the mucosa of all different regions except in the membranous portion of the vocal fold. In the subepithelium, some SP- and CGRP-ir nerve bundles and nerve fibres were recognized around the vessels and glands. In the mucosa, the pattern of distribution and the density of SR-ir fibres were similar to those of CGRP-ir fibres. These reactive fibres were denser in the supraglottic region than in the subglottic region. In the taste bud-like structures, only SP-ir fibres appeared, whereas in the motor endplates, CGRP-reaction was found exclusively. The present findings suggest that the regional distribution of SP- and CGRP-immunoreactivity might be related with sensory and autonomic innervation in the larynx.