I am reporting the expression of a neurotransmitter peptide mRNA in the mesenteric artery for the first time by RT-PCR, cloning and sequencing. This peptide has been known to be expressed in DRG. A question was raised that the mRNA of this neuropeptide might be transported through axon from DRG to the mesenteric artery.
If some one could suggest me how does one differentiate whether the mRNA of a neuropeptide is expressed in the artery or it is transported to the artery through axonal transport from DRG.

Cold storage denervation, capsaicin pretreatment and 6-hydroxydopamine pretreatment abolish different classes of neuronal fibers.

You may have to do these treatments with immunocytochemistry an/or in situ's to clarify your findings.

See

J Pharmacol Sci. 2004 Dec;96(4):391-4. Epub 2004 Dec 15.

or

Peptides. 2004 Apr;25(4):589-99.