A Spinal Transcommissural Connection for Symmetrical Sympathetic Reflex Response

Abstract

Wheatgerm agglutinin conjugated horseradish peroxidase was injected into the ganglion cervicale superior of the sympathetic trunk of seven adult rats. Labelled neurons were found in the ipsilateral anterior commissural nucleus of the spinal cord at the C 1 level. Transcommissural crossing of labelled fibres and symmetrical labelling of neurons in the contralateral nucleus were also found. Labelled fibres could then be followed contralaterally into the superior cervical ganglion where labelled neurons were also found.

Key Words:

• sympathetic ganglia
• symmetrical inflammation
• rheumatoid arthritis
• horseradish peroxidase