A Melanophore-Stimulating Factor in Embryonic Skin

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Abstract
Homogenates from flank skin of Ambystoma maculatum embryos at stage 35 show melanophore-stimulating hormone (MSH)-like activity when tested with punctate melanophores in epidermal vesicles and in hypophysectomized larvae. Homogenates from flank skin of older embryos (Siredon mexicanum at stage 41-42) and from adult tissues (Rana pipiens) show no such activity. The temporary occurrence of an MSH-like factor in early embryonic skin may explain the initial pituitary independence of the earliest melanophores differentiating in Urodele pigment patterns.