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Fine structural evidence for hormone secretion by the human thymus
Journal of Clinical Pathology
|March 1, 1973
Summary
Epithelial cells in Hassall's corpuscles possess secretory machinery and granules, suggesting a role within the thymus. Their products likely function internally, as corpuscles and surrounding zones lack blood vessels.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Histology
Background:
- Hassall's corpuscles are unique structures within the human thymus.
- Their precise function, particularly regarding secretion, remains incompletely understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrastructural characteristics of Hassall's corpuscle epithelial cells.
- To determine the secretory potential and potential function of these cells.
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy was used to examine epithelial cells from 11 human thymus glands.
- Samples included glands from myasthenia gravis patients and congenital heart disease patients.
Main Results:
- Epithelial cells exhibited organelle complexes consistent with 'export'-type secretion.
- Numerous membrane-limited secretion granules were observed within these cells.
- Hassall's corpuscles and a 50 µm pericorpuscular zone were avascular.
Conclusions:
- Hassall's corpuscle epithelial cells are equipped for secretory activity.
- The avascular nature of the corpuscles suggests an intrathymic function for their secretions.
- This points to a localized role for Hassall's corpuscles within thymic microenvironments.