Glial cell proliferation in human retinal detachment with massive periretinal proliferation
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Abstract:
By transmission electron microscopy we studied 38 epiretinal membranes obtained from human eyes by vitrectomy operation in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Two of the membranes were composed of closely packed glial cell processes. The cytoplasm of the glial cell processes in both membranes contained little besides loosely packed filaments and microtubules. Microvilli protruded from the cells at the vitreal surface of one of the membranes. Junctional complexes were present between the cells only at the vitreal surface. In the other glial membrane, microvilli extended into a duct-like structure with junctional complexes sealing the lumen. A discontinuous basal lamina was laid down by cell processes at the retinal side of the membranes. Similar glial membranes, formed by migration and proliferation of astrocytes from the retina, were seen in owl monkeys with experimental and naturally occurring retinal detachment. A new epiretinal membrane (reformed in one of the eyes from which a dense glial membrane had been removed three weeks previously), was composed primarily of single large cells with extensively developed rough endoplasmic reticulum. The new cells were surrounded by collagen, fine fibrillar material, and fibrin. The new membrane also contained free pigment granules and pigment-containing macrophages. Additionally, we observed spicule-like crystals between the cells in the glial membrane specimens, identified as calcium phosphates by energy-dispersive x-ray analysis.
Insights
This study examined epiretinal membranes from human eyes, revealing glial cell processes and calcium phosphate crystals. These findings offer insights into retinal detachment complications and potential treatments.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cell Biology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Epiretinal membranes (ERMs) are a common complication of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.
- Understanding the cellular and molecular composition of ERMs is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the ultrastructure of epiretinal membranes obtained from human eyes with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.
- To investigate the cellular composition and extracellular matrix of newly formed ERMs.
- To identify crystalline deposits within ERMs.
Main Methods:
- Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to examine 38 human epiretinal membranes.
- Energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) was employed to identify crystalline structures.
Main Results:
- Two ERMs were primarily composed of glial cell processes with filaments and microtubules.
- Microvilli and junctional complexes were observed on the vitreal surface of glial cells.
- Newly formed ERMs contained large cells with extensive rough endoplasmic reticulum, collagen, fibrin, and pigment granules.
- Spicule-like crystals, identified as calcium phosphates, were found between cells in glial membranes.
Conclusions:
- Epiretinal membranes exhibit diverse cellular compositions, including glial cells and reactive cells.
- The presence of calcium phosphate crystals in ERMs warrants further investigation.
- These findings contribute to understanding the pathogenesis of epiretinal membranes in retinal detachment.