[Localization of NADPH diaphorase in central nervous system of the chiton Leptochiton assimilis in normal conditions and during hypoxia].

By light and electron microscope histochemical and cytochemical methods, the localization and activity of NADPH-diaphorase (NADPH-d) were studied in the central nervous system (CNS) of the chiton in control and after hypoxia. After acute hypoxia, the enzymatic activity increased in all regions of CNS. At a chronic hypoxia, the activity of NADPH-d decreased to remain, however, higher than in control. Ultrastructural studies confirmed the availability of structural changes in neurons, and shifts in the activity of NADPH-d in control and in experimental mollusks. The elevated enzymatic activity revealed in this study may be due to the fact that these mollusks have been evolutionary adapted to a periodical oxygen deficiency.