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Mesothelial stomata overlying omental milky spots: scanning electron microscopic study
Abstract:
The presence in the rat omentum of intercellular pores (the classical stomata of von Recklinghausen) between the mesothelial cells overlying aggregates of lymphoreticular cells (the classical milky spots of Ranvier) and the apparent migration of lymphocytes through these stomata were recorded for the first time by scanning electron microscopy. Previous studies on passage of cells across the peritoneum and omentum used experimentally administered cells, while in the present study no cells were administered to the rats and their own lymphocytes were observed in situ. The possible role of lymphocytes in the peritoneal cavity is also briefly discussed.
Insights
Scanning electron microscopy revealed intercellular pores in rat omentum, showing lymphocytes migrating through these stomata and milky spots for the first time in situ without administered cells.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Anatomy
Background:
- The peritoneum and omentum are crucial in immune surveillance.
- Lymphocyte trafficking across these tissues is not fully understood.
- Previous studies relied on exogenous cell administration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To visualize in situ lymphocyte migration across the rat omentum.
- To identify the structures involved in this migration.
- To explore the role of lymphocytes in the peritoneal cavity.
Main Methods:
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed.
- Observation of intercellular pores (stomata of von Recklinghausen) between mesothelial cells.
- Visualization of lymphoreticular cell aggregates (milky spots of Ranvier).
Main Results:
- The study provides the first SEM evidence of intercellular pores in the rat omentum.
- Apparent migration of endogenous lymphocytes through these stomata was observed.
- Lymphocytes were seen in proximity to milky spots.
Conclusions:
- Intercellular pores in the omentum serve as a pathway for lymphocyte migration.
- This finding offers new insights into peritoneal immune cell trafficking.
- The study highlights the in situ behavior of lymphocytes within the peritoneal cavity.