Electron microscope study of surface immunoglobulin-bearing human tonsil cells

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Cell Biology
• Microscopy

Background:

• Surface immunoglobulin (Ig) expression is a key marker for identifying and characterizing lymphoid cells.
• Understanding the distribution and characteristics of Ig-bearing cells is crucial for immunological research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a method for selecting and visualizing surface Ig-bearing cells from human tonsil suspensions.
• To characterize the morphology and surface features of these selected cells using electron microscopy.

Main Methods:

• Reverse immune cytoadherence technique utilizing a hybrid antibody against Ig and ferritin-bound sheep red blood cells (SRBC).
• Electron microscopy to examine cell morphology and the presence of Ig-mediated bridges.
• Fluorescent antibody techniques to corroborate findings on plasma cells and gamma-globulin-bearing lymphoid cells.

Main Results:

• The technique successfully selected a small population (6%) of surface Ig-bearing cells, forming rosettes.
• Electron microscopy revealed a heterogeneous cell population, with many showing ribosome-associated endoplasmic reticulum and polyribosomes.
• A distinct bridge structure, likely composed of Ig, was observed between lymphocytes and SRBCs; however, it was not resolved for plasma cells.

Conclusions:

• The reverse immune cytoadherence method is effective for isolating and studying surface Ig-bearing lymphoid cells.
• Electron microscopy provides detailed insights into the ultrastructure of these cells and their interactions.
• The study highlights differences in plasma cell surface characteristics and Ig interaction compared to other lymphoid cells.