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Abstract
The source and topography of neuropeptide-containing axons in the median eminence
are summarized. Several of these neuropeptide-containing neurons (thyrotropin-releasing
hormone, corticotropin-releasing hormone, vasopressin, oxytocin, cholecystokinin)
are localized in the paraventricular nucleus. The periventricular and medial preoptic
nuclei constitute the main sources of somatostatin and luteinizing hormone releasing
hormone axons in the median eminence, respectively. Dynorphins and alpha-neo-endorphin-synthetizing
neurons in the supraoptic nucleus also project to the median eminence. Wherever they
originate, the projections may follow a common organization pattern and use a common
gate--the lateral retrochiasmatic area--to enter the median eminence.