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Fibroblasts in geriatric vocal fold mucosa
M Hirano1, K Sato, T Nakashima
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Kurume University, Japan.
Acta Oto-Laryngologica
|October 18, 2001
Summary
Geriatric vocal fold fibroblasts in the macula flava (MF) and Reinke
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Cell Biology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Vocal fold aging involves changes in mucosal and submucosal tissues.
- Fibroblasts are key cells in vocal fold connective tissue, influencing vocal fold structure and function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate age-related ultrastructural changes in fibroblasts within the macula flava (MF) and Reinke's space (RS) of geriatric vocal folds.
- To compare these changes with those observed in younger adults.
Main Methods:
- Transmission electron microscopy was used to examine fibroblasts from five geriatric larynges (age 74-83).
- Fibroblast morphology, nucleus/cytoplasm ratio, rough endoplasmic reticulum (rER), Golgi apparatus (GA), glycogen, and lipofuscin were analyzed.
- Findings were compared to previous studies on younger adults.
Main Results:
- Fibroblast morphology (spindle-shaped in RS, stellate in MF) and nucleus/cytoplasm ratio were similar to younger adults.
- Reduced development of rough endoplasmic reticulum (rER) and Golgi apparatus (GA) was noted in MF fibroblasts of the geriatric group.
- Glycogen particles and lipofuscin granules were observed in MF and RS fibroblasts, indicating cellular aging processes.
Conclusions:
- Geriatric vocal fold fibroblasts exhibit decreased cellular activity and signs of aging.
- These fibroblast changes likely contribute to the age-related alterations observed in the vocal ligament and vocal fold mucosa.