Modulation of the neural control of the clasp reflex in male Xenopus laevis by androgens: a multidisciplinary study.

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Abstract
The neural control of the clasp reflex in male X. laevis was studied by using anatomical, electrophysiological and biochemical techniques. Neurons in spinal segments of 2 castrated males accumulate label after injection of [3H]-dihydrotestosterone; these neurons are distributed within the rostral portions of the motoneuronal pools of the sternoradialis and flexor carpi radialis muscles. In vitro recordings from the nerve to the sternoradialis muscle in the isolated spinal cord preparation from castrated male Xenopus showed increased activation to paired dorsal root stimulation after addition of dihydrotestosterone to the bath. This increase could be prevented by prior administration of cycloheximide. The reducing enzyme testosterone 5.alpha.-reductase is present and is selectively distributed in male Xenopus spinal cord. The androgens may alter patterns of neuronal activity leading to the clasp muscles and thereby influence myosin types within these muscles.