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Identification of challenged subarachnoid free cells
Abstract:
Three distinct types of free cell contours are recognizable in scanning electron microscopy (SEM) on the leptomeningeal sheaths of dogs twelve days after an intrathecal injection of bacillus of dogs twelve days after an intrathecal injection of bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG). Macrophages posses abundant plasmalemnal blebs which are shown in transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to be composed of large membrane-bound vacuoles. Smooth surfaced lymphoblasts exhibit many basal microvilli that rest upon and often indent the plasmalemma of an underlying pial cell. Neutrophils display many microvilli over their rounded, chrysanthemum-like surfaces. The consistency with which these external features are expressed suggests that each cell type possesses characteristic surface topography, at least under these conditions of challenge.
Insights
Scanning electron microscopy revealed three distinct cell types on leptomeningeal sheaths after bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) injection in dogs. Each cell type, including macrophages, lymphoblasts, and neutrophils, exhibited unique surface topography.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The leptomeninges are crucial membranes protecting the central nervous system.
- Intrathecal injections are used to deliver substances directly into the cerebrospinal fluid.
- Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) is an immunotherapy agent with potential inflammatory effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the surface morphology of free cells within the leptomeningeal sheaths.
- To identify distinct cell types based on their external features using electron microscopy.
- To investigate cellular responses following intrathecal BCG administration.
Main Methods:
- Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was employed to visualize cell surface structures.
- Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) was used to examine internal cell composition.
- Dogs received an intrathecal injection of BCG, and samples were collected twelve days post-injection.
Main Results:
- Three distinct free cell types were identified on the leptomeningeal sheaths.
- Macrophages showed abundant plasmalemnal blebs, appearing as large membrane-bound vacuoles via TEM.
- Lymphoblasts presented smooth surfaces with basal microvilli indenting underlying pial cells, while neutrophils had numerous microvilli, resembling chrysanthemum flowers.
Conclusions:
- The observed external features suggest distinct surface topographies for macrophages, lymphoblasts, and neutrophils in the leptomeningeal environment.
- These characteristic surface morphologies may aid in identifying cell types and understanding their interactions within the meninges.
- The study highlights the utility of SEM in discerning cellular heterogeneity in response to intrathecal challenges.