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Tuft Cells Are Present in Submandibular Glands Across Species
Harim Tavares Dos Santos1,2, Kihoon Nam1,2, Frank M Maslow1,2
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri.
Summary
Tuft cells, chemosensory cells crucial for immune function, have been confirmed in salivary glands. This study identifies these cells in mouse, pig, and human submandibular glands, verifying their presence across species.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
- Histology
Background:
- Tuft cells are specialized chemosensory cells found in various epithelia, known for their role in immune system regulation.
- Their presence in salivary glands has been historically uncertain, with limited evidence primarily from rat studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and confirm the presence of Tuft cells in the submandibular glands of multiple species.
- To characterize Tuft cells in salivary glands using advanced imaging and molecular techniques.
Main Methods:
- Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was employed to visualize cellular ultrastructure.
- Confocal immunofluorescence analysis was performed using POU class 2 homeobox 3 (POU2F3) as a specific marker for Tuft cell identity.
Main Results:
- Tuft cells were definitively identified in the submandibular glands of mice, pigs, and humans.
- POU2F3 expression confirmed Tuft cell presence and identity in these salivary glands.
- The findings provide robust evidence for Tuft cells in diverse mammalian salivary gland tissues.
Conclusions:
- Tuft cells are confirmed residents of mammalian submandibular glands.
- This discovery opens new avenues for understanding salivary gland function and immunity.
- Further research can explore the specific roles of Tuft cells in salivary gland physiology and pathology.
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