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Related Experiment Videos

Fine structural evidence for hormone secretion by the human thymus.

J M Vetters, R F Macadam

    Journal of Clinical Pathology
    |March 1, 1973
    PubMed
    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.

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    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.

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