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STUDIES ON ENDOTHELIAL REACTIONS : VI. THE ENDOTHELIAL RESPONSE IN EXPERIMENTAL TUBERCULOUS MENINGOENCEPHALITIS
1Department of Comparative Pathology, George Fabyan Foundation, Harvard Medical School, Boston.
Abstract:
1. Experimental cerebral and meningeal tubercles in the rabbit are formed from cells of endothelial origin. 2. These cells are derived apparently from other sources than the neighboring capillary endothelium alone. 3. The circulating macrophages, which, in this case, are capable of multiplying by mitosis while still free in the blood, are drawn upon in the formation of the cerebral tubercle. 4. Splenectomy has not materially decreased the available supply of circulating macrophages in this experiment. 5. While these cells may originate in the endothelium of the liver and bone marrow, the lung appears to play a much more important rôle in this respect than has been hitherto suspected.
Insights
Cerebral tubercles in rabbits originate from endothelial cells, with circulating macrophages playing a key role. The lungs are identified as a significant, previously underestimated source for these macrophages in tubercle formation.
Area of Science:
- Pathology
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Cerebral and meningeal tubercles are pathological formations.
- The cellular origins of these tubercles have been historically debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cellular origins of experimental cerebral and meningeal tubercles in rabbits.
- To identify the sources of cells contributing to tubercle formation.
Main Methods:
- Induction of experimental cerebral and meningeal tubercles in rabbits.
- Histological and cellular analysis to determine cell lineage.
- Assessment of circulating macrophage populations and their proliferation.
Main Results:
- Experimental tubercles are formed from cells of endothelial origin.
- Circulating macrophages, capable of mitosis, contribute significantly to tubercle formation.
- The lung is identified as a crucial, previously underestimated source of these macrophages, alongside the liver and bone marrow.
Conclusions:
- Cerebral tubercle formation involves both endothelial cells and circulating macrophages.
- The lung plays a more significant role in supplying macrophages for tubercle formation than previously recognized.
