Identification of the substantia nigra pars lateralis in the macaque using cytochrome oxidase and fiber stains

Brain Res. 1989 Feb 20;480(1-2):305-11. doi: 10.1016/0006-8993(89)90197-2.

Abstract

Classically, the substantia nigra is divided into three subdivisions, the pars compacta, the pars reticulata, and the pars lateralis. The purpose of the present study was to develop methods for routine identification of the non-compacta subdivisions in the macaque monkey. First, the pars reticulata and pars lateralis were identified based on their Nissl features. Second, nearby cytochrome oxidase and Gallyas fiber stained sections were examined for these two subdivisions. In both stains, a dorsolateral region could be identified to contain large fiber bundles. This region is coextensive with the pars lateralis as identified in Nissl-stained preparations. Lastly, we examined the complete extent of the pars lateralis using the cytochrome oxidase procedure. We conclude that in the macaque monkey the pars lateralis can be identified as a distinct nigral subdivision by using cytochrome oxidase and fiber staining techniques.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Electron Transport Complex IV / analysis*
  • Histocytochemistry / methods*
  • Macaca / anatomy & histology*
  • Macaca mulatta / anatomy & histology*
  • Macaca mulatta / metabolism
  • Nerve Fibers / analysis
  • Staining and Labeling*
  • Substantia Nigra / cytology
  • Substantia Nigra / enzymology*

Substances

  • Electron Transport Complex IV