Ultrastructural megakaryocyte modifications after vanadium inhalation in spleen and bone marrow

Previous reports from our laboratory informed in mice an increase in platelets in blood, and megakaryocytes in spleen and bone marrow after vanadium inhalation. This element has become important in recent years because of its increased presence as an air pollutant. With this precedent, we evaluate the ultrastructural modifications in MKs from the spleen and bone marrow in our mouse experimental model. Mice inhaled 0.02 M V(2)O(5) 1 h twice a week for 12 weeks. Tissues were processed for transmission electron microscopy. Results indicate an increase in the size and cytoplasmic granular content, as well as nuclear changes in MKs of exposed mice, changes which correlate with the time of exposure. Modifications in MKs described here suggest that inhaled vanadium induce megakaryocytic maturation, a raise in its granules content and demarcation membrane systems, which may lead to a rise in circulating platelet production and an increased risk for thromboembolic events.