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Published on: April 9, 2019
Human Fcalpha/muR and pIgR distribute differently in intestinal tissues
1Department of Immunology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, 5 Dong Dan San Tiao, Beijing 100005, China.
Abstract:
Fcalpha/muR, an Fc receptor for both IgA and IgM, is close to pIgR in gene location and has an Ig-like domain homologous to pIgR. In this study, we generated monoclonal antibodies and determined Fcalpha/muR and pIgR distributions in human intestinal tissues. Immunohistochemistry analysis showed that, unlike pIgR, which was expressed on epithelial cells of intestinal tissues, Fcalpha/muR was expressed mainly in the intestinal lamina propria and germinal centers of some lymphoid follicles. Double label immunohistochemistry analysis showed that Fcalpha/muR was expressed on intestinal macrophages and plasma cells. Fcalpha/muR was also expressed in Paneth cells. Similar expression patterns for Fcalpha/muR were observed in the small intestine, appendix, colon and rectum. These results indicate for the first time that Fcalpha/muR protein is expressed by human intestinal tissues. The different tissue distribution patterns indicate that Fcalpha/muR and pIgR have different roles in intestinal immunity.
Insights
Fc-alpha/mu receptor (Fcalpha/muR) is newly identified in human intestinal tissues, distinct from polymeric IgA receptor (pIgR). This immune receptor is found on macrophages, plasma cells, and Paneth cells, suggesting unique roles in gut immunity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gastroenterology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Fc-alpha/mu receptor (Fcalpha/muR) shares gene location and Ig-like domains with polymeric IgA receptor (pIgR).
- The tissue distribution and function of Fcalpha/muR in human intestines remain largely uncharacterized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression and distribution of Fcalpha/muR in human intestinal tissues.
- To compare the tissue localization of Fcalpha/muR with that of pIgR.
Main Methods:
- Generation of monoclonal antibodies against Fcalpha/muR.
- Immunohistochemistry and double-label immunohistochemistry on human intestinal tissue samples.
Main Results:
- Fcalpha/muR is expressed in the intestinal lamina propria and germinal centers, unlike pIgR on epithelial cells.
- Fcalpha/muR is localized on intestinal macrophages, plasma cells, and Paneth cells.
- Consistent expression patterns were observed across the small intestine, appendix, colon, and rectum.
Conclusions:
- This study provides the first evidence of Fcalpha/muR protein expression in human intestinal tissues.
- The distinct tissue distribution of Fcalpha/muR compared to pIgR suggests different functional roles in intestinal immunity.
