The presence of acetylated tubulin in the pig thymus

Immunohistochemical localisation of acetylated alpha-tubulin was investigated in pig thymus using a mouse monoclonal antibody. Positive reaction to acetylated tubulin was observed in the cells involved in Hassall's bodies localized in the medulla region. Reacting product displayed a homogenous, fine or coarse granular character. The reacting peripheral cells of Hassall's bodies produced crescent or annular formations. Inside the Hassall's bodies the centrally located cells were unreactive. The presence of the acetylated tubulin confirms positive cellular structures in these cells. Differences in the character and intensity of staining in the epithelial cells may confirm transformation of the epithelial cells during the formation of the Hassall's bodies and/or the presence of the neural crest derivative in the development of the thymus.