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The distribution of immunoreactive neurones and fibres was studied in rat brain using an antiserum to rat prolactin. Neurones containing the immunoreactive material were localized in the arcuate, ventromedial, premamillary, supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei of the hypothalamus. Immunoreactive nerve fibres were widely distributed within the brain. No differences were observed in labelling between male and female rats, or as a consequence of hypophysectomy.

By means of a specific anti-rat renin antiserum, immunohistochemical staining was observed restricted to Leydig cells of rat testis. Specificity of the staining was ascertained by the absence of reaction with nonimmune serum or with the antiserum preincubated with rat renin. Specific staining of Leydig cells was absent in newborn rats; it developed with the onset of puberty. Staining was suppressed or abolished by hypophysectomy and estrogen treatment and was reduced by gonadotropin stimulation. Vasectomy destroyed the seminiferous epithelium but did not impair renin-like immunoreactivity of the interstitial tissue. It is concluded that Leydig cells contain a pituitary-dependent renin-like substance.