AT4 receptor binding in the developing rabbit

Abstract

The binding of the AT4-specific analog, divalinal-AngIV (Dival), was studied in rabbit fetuses of various gestational ages. Saturation isotherm and competition data from selected tissues indicate that fetal Dival binding sites are saturable and specific for AT4 ligands. Autoradiographs revealed that binding was present in all the specimens examined. The peripheral nerves, kidneys, and heart were particularly heavily labeled. Labeling of some tissues, such as forming bones, was not constant as gestational age increased. Other tissues, including multilocular fat, sinus hairs, and enamel organs of nascent teeth, exhibited substantial binding as these tissues developed. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.