The presence of the mu(3) opiate receptor in invertebrate neural tissues

A previous report demonstrated the presence of the newly discovered opiate alkaloid selective and opioid peptide insensitive mu(3) receptor in ganglia of several invertebrate and one vertebrate species as well as in microglial cells that had egressed from these ganglia after their maintenance in culture medium for several days. In the present study carried out in two representatives of invertebrates, the binding densities of this receptor determined in intact ganglia were compared with those in ganglia depleted of microglial cells. The aim was to ascertain whether the differences in binding capacity recorded in those two groups of ganglia might give an indication of the possible presence of this opiate receptor in nonmicroglial components of the nervous tissue, i.e., neurons. Within a period of 72 h of incubation, the gradual reduction in binding density had reached a plateau, in accordance with the termination of the egress of microglia. The fact that at least two thirds of the binding capacity of mu(3) receptors were retained by the ganglia strongly suggests that part of this capacity may be attributed to neurons. This view is supported by additional data, in particular the demonstration of endogenous morphine in nervous tissue and its localization within distinct neurons.