Immunohistochemical localisation of nerve growth factor in a subpopulation of chick spinal ganglion neurons

We have previously isolated and sequenced the chicken nerve growth factor (NGF) gene and now, from the deduced amino acid sequence, selected and produced peptides suitable for use as antigens. Antisera raised against these peptides inhibit the biological activity of a partially purified preparation of native chicken NGF and, when used in immunocytochemical studies, allow the visualisation of sensory neurons accumulating endogenous NGF. Immunoreactive cells form a distinct population of small neurons which may correspond to the well‐described neurons generated in the dorsomedial area of spinal ganglia. We conclude that two subpopulations of neurons exist within dorsal root ganglia, whose requirements for, and use of, NGF may be quite distinct.