Detection of a novel pattern of connexin 43 immunoreactivity responsive to dehydration in rat hypothalamic magnocellular nuclei.

Immunocytochemical expression of Connexin 43 (Cx 43) in the rat Supraoptic Nucleus was analyzed following dehydration, using sequence-specific anti-Cx 43 antibodies (designated 13-8300, 71-0700, and sc-9059) that exhibit differential recognition of Cx 43. Punctate and longitudinally arranged immunostaining patterns of Cx 43 labeling, as evidenced by antibody sc-9059, was detected overlaying the nucleus of magnocellular neuroendocrine cells. This novel form of longitudinally arranged Cx 43 immunoreactivity was modified by dehydration and halothane exposure, but not lactation.