Tissue distribution of bovine cystatin C analysed by in situ hybridisation

Cysteine proteinase inhibitors of the cystatin superfamily have been identified in many living organisms. However, knowledge of the tissue distribution of such inhibitors is limited. To elucidate this distribution in mammals, we have investigated the expression of the gene for cystatin C, belonging to cystatin family II, in several bovine tissues. In situ hybridisation with a digoxigenin-labelled cRNA probe demonstrated a high concentration of bovine cystatin C mRNA in the secretory epithelial cells of the choroid plexus, and also intense staining in cells of lymphoid tissue and in Sertoli cells. Cystatin C mRNA was also present in scattered neurons and glial cells throughout the cerebrum and the cerebellum. In the submandibular gland, specific mRNA was found mainly in striated intralobular ducts and interlobular ducts. The expression of cystatin C in brain tissue is of particular interest, as the inhibitor appears to be involved in certain neurological diseases. The main production of cystatin C within the brain is believed to be by astrocytes. However, this work shows that also neurons from young, normal individuals express cystatin C.