Neurotensin expressing neurons developed earlier than vasoactive intestinal polypeptide and vasopressin expressing neurons in the human suprachiasmatic nucleus

Development of neurotensin (NT), vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), vasopressin (AVP) and neuropeptide-Y (NPY) expressing neurons was investigated in the human fetal suprachiasmatic nucleus of nine subjects ranging from 20–40 weeks of gestation using immunocytochemistry and morphometry. Results obtained showed that NT expressing neurons developed earlier than VIP, AVP and NPY expressing neurons. Consistent with results obtained from animal studies, we also found VIP expressing neurons were born earlier than AVP expressing neurons. Whether the NT expressing neurons play a role in generating circadian rhythms in the early life of humans needs to be further investigated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]