Possible involvement of α- and β-receptors in the natural colour change and the MSH-induced dispersion in Xenopus laevis in vivo

Abstract

Participation of adrenergic receptors in the darkening reaction has been demonstrated in Xenopus laevis in vivo. Blockade of the β-receptors inhibited adaptation to a black background as well as the artificially MSH-induced dispersion. α-Receptors could not be proved to be involved in the dispersion or aggregation of the melanophores. A possible mechanism of the melanophore dispersion by MSH and catecholamines is discussed.