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Cellular composition of rat bone marrow stroma. Antigen-defined subpopulations
A K Sullivan1, D Claxton, G Shematek
1McGill Cancer Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Summary
Bone marrow fibroblastoid cells possess unique ST3 antigens, distinguishing them from fibroblasts in other organs. These findings highlight the specialized nature of stromal cells within the bone marrow microenvironment.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Hematology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Stromal cells are crucial for bone marrow architecture and hematopoiesis.
- The precise relationships between macrophage, fibroblastic, endothelial, and adipocyte-like stromal cell components remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distinct characteristics of fibroblastoid cells within the bone marrow.
- To differentiate bone marrow stromal cells from those found in non-hematopoietic tissues using specific antigens.
Main Methods:
- Utilized murine monoclonal antibodies against cultured adherent rat bone marrow cells.
- Analyzed the expression of ST3 and ST4 antigens on fibroblastoid cells from bone marrow and various non-hemopoietic organs (lung, diaphragm, epididymal fat pad, spleen).
- Investigated the binding of ST10 antibody to marrow-derived fat cells and other cell types.
Main Results:
- Predominant fibroblastoid cells from bone marrow expressed ST3 but not ST4 antigens, unlike cells from other organs.
- Non-hemopoietic fibroblasts showed varying ratios of ST4 to ST3, with spleen cells having an equal mix.
- ST10 antibody identified marrow-derived fat cells, peripheral adipose cells, and macrophages, but not fibroblasts.
Conclusions:
- Fibroblastoid cells in the bone marrow exhibit distinct antigenic profiles compared to those in non-hemopoietic tissues.
- These findings suggest specialized roles for bone marrow stromal cells in maintaining the unique microenvironment necessary for hematopoiesis.