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Characterization and localization of specific oestrogen binding in the human thymus
Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation
|January 1, 1986
Summary
The human thymus binds oestrogen (a hormone) with high affinity, suggesting it may be a target organ influencing immune responses. This binding occurs in thymic stroma, not immune cells, potentially impacting lymphocyte function.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Clinical and experimental data suggest oestrogens influence immune reactivity.
- The role of oestrogens in thymic function and immune modulation requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the oestrogen-binding properties of human thymus tissue.
- To characterize the affinity, capacity, specificity, and localization of oestrogen binding in the human thymus.
Main Methods:
- Aqueous two-phase separation technique was employed to study oestrogen binding in human thymus samples.
- Histochemical analyses were performed to determine the cellular localization of the binding sites.
Main Results:
- Specific, high-affinity, low-capacity oestrogen binding was detected in 90% of human thymus samples (ages 1-42).
- The association constant for oestradiol binding (3.7 x 10^9 M-1) is comparable to uterine oestrogen receptor binding.
- Oestrogen binding sites (182 fmol/mg protein) were more concentrated in the thymus than in the uterus and were localized to the reticulo-epithelial stroma.
Conclusions:
- The human thymus exhibits specific oestrogen-binding properties, indicating it is a target organ for oestrogens.
- Oestrogen binding in the thymus, localized to the stroma, may play a role in modulating lymphocyte function, particularly during therapeutic interventions involving oestrogens.