Abstract
The fluorescence spectrum of the central nervous white matter in numerous animals shows a distinct emission band at 630-620 m[mu]. The position of the band and the fact that the spectrum is one of Dhere''s type I indicate a porphyrin. The band is absent in regions where cytochrome absorption bands occur. Substances extracted from the white matter of animals and man seem to be coproporphyrins. Protoporphyrin is variably present. Increasing porphyrinization occurs after birth in birds and mammals. Porphyrins are limited to the C.N.S. and may be associated with psychiatric disorders.

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