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The expression of neurotransmitters/neuromodulators in sympathetic neurons is regulated by anterograde and retrograde mechanisms. We have examined the role of such mechanisms in the regulation of the neuropeptide vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). The adult rat superior cervical ganglion (SCG) contains low levels of peptide-like immunoreactivity (IR) and mRNA for VIP. Some VIP-IR nerve processes, but only a few VIP-IR cell bodies, are detectable. Previous evidence demonstrates, however, that after the SCG is placed in organ culture for 48 hr, the level of VIP-IR and VIP mRNA and the number of VIP-IR cell bodies and fibers increase considerably. Two of the possible causes for these changes in peptide expression in sympathetic neurons are deafferentation and axotomy, both of which occur when the SCG is placed in culture. To determine the importance of deafferentation, the preganglionic cervical …