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Updated: May 27, 2026
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A Novel In Vitro Live-imaging Assay of Astrocyte-mediated Phagocytosis Using pH Indicator-conjugated Synaptosomes
Published on: February 5, 2018
Phagocytic properties in tumor astrocytes
Annette Persson1, Elisabet Englund
1Department of Clinical Science, Lund, Division V, Pathology, University Hospital, Lund, Sweden. annette.persson@med.lu.se
Summary
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) tumor cells may possess phagocytic properties, similar to macrophages. These newly identified phagocyte-like traits in neoplastic cells could contribute to glioblastoma growth and expansion.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cell Biology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) growth mechanisms remain poorly understood.
- Macrophages, specifically microglial cells, are known phagocytic cells implicated in gliomas.
- Evidence suggests astrocytic and glioma cells may exhibit phagocytosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate phagocytic properties in human GBM cells.
- To analyze tumor biopsies from surgical GBM specimens.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical double staining using CD68 and CD163 (macrophage markers) and hTERT (neoplastic cell marker).
- Hematoxylin-erythrosin staining to visualize cellular components.
Main Results:
- High levels of double-positive cells (macrophage markers and hTERT) were observed in human GBM.
- Fragmented cellular material was identified within the cytoplasm of tumor cells.
- Many neoplastic GBM cells expressed macrophage markers.
Conclusions:
- Human astroglial tumor cells in GBM may possess phagocytic or phagocyte-like properties.
- This capacity might represent a self-defense mechanism activated under specific conditions.
- These properties likely aid in glioblastoma tumor growth and expansion.
