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C-kit immunopositive interstitial cells (Cajal-type) in human myometrium
Sanda M Ciontea1, E Radu, T Regalia
1Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, 050474, Romania. sciontea@univermed-cdgm.ro
Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine
|June 21, 2005
Summary
Researchers confirmed the presence of Cajal-like interstitial cells in the human myometrium. These cells express c-kit and exhibit spontaneous electrical activity, clarifying previous contradictory findings.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Gastrointestinal Physiology
Background:
- Previous studies on Cajal-like interstitial cells in the human uterus yielded conflicting results regarding c-kit expression.
- Contradictory reports noted either c-kit negativity (vimentin-positive) in pregnant myometrium or c-kit positivity, potentially in the endometrium.
Purpose of the Study:
- To definitively verify the existence of human myometrial Cajal-like interstitial cells (m-CLIC).
- To characterize the morphology, electrical properties, and molecular markers of m-CLIC.
Main Methods:
- Utilized six complementary techniques: vital staining (methylene blue, Janus green B), electrophysiology, light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and immunofluorescence (IF).
- Investigated tissue samples and in vitro cell cultures to identify and analyze m-CLIC.
Main Results:
- Confirmed the presence of m-CLIC in human myometrium, constituting approximately 7% of cells in vitro.
- m-CLIC exhibited characteristic long, thin, moniliform processes and spontaneous electrical activity.
- TEM confirmed standard criteria for these cells, and IF revealed expression of CD117/c-kit, CD34, and vimentin.
Conclusions:
- Successfully identified and characterized human myometrial Cajal-like interstitial cells (m-CLIC).
- These cells are vital dye-avid, possess distinct ultrastructural features, express CD117/c-kit, and display spontaneous electrical activity.