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Diffuse lymphoid tissue associated with the human bulbourethral gland. An immunohistologic characterization
R Migliari1, A Riva, M S Lantini
1Clinica Urologica, Università di Cagliari, Italy.
Journal of Andrology
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Immunocompetent cells, including T lymphocytes and suppressor-cytotoxic cells, are present in bulbourethral glands. Their exact function in genitourinary health and disease remains unclear.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Urology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Bulbourethral glands are accessory sex glands with a poorly understood immune cell composition.
- Understanding the local immune environment is crucial for diagnosing and treating genitourinary conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and distribution of various immunocompetent cells within the bulbourethral glands.
- To characterize the phenotypes of immune cells in these glands.
Main Methods:
- Utilized indirect immunoperoxidase staining on bulbourethral gland tissues from multiorgan transplant donors.
- Employed monoclonal antibodies to identify B cells (Leu 12+), T cells (Leu 4+), suppressor-cytotoxic cells (Leu 2+), helper-inducer cells (Leu 3a+), natural killer cells (Leu7+), monocyte-macrophages (LeuM3+), and cells expressing interleukin-2 receptor and HLA-DR antigen.
Main Results:
- Identified a defined distribution of immunocompetent cells within the bulbourethral glands.
- T lymphocytes constituted approximately 10% of the mucosal cell population.
- Intraepithelial lymphocytes were predominantly suppressor-cytotoxic (CD8+) cells.
Conclusions:
- Bulbourethral glands harbor a specific population of immunocompetent cells.
- The precise immunological role of these cells in combating infections or chronic genitourinary diseases requires further investigation.