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An electron microscopic study of the changes induced by oestrogens on the lymph-node post-capillary venules
The Journal of Pathology
|September 1, 1979
Summary
Estrogen administration alters mouse lymph node venule endothelial cells, increasing their height and organelle content. This may explain sex differences in immune responses and affect the reticuloendothelial system.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Sex differences in immune responses are well-documented.
- Estrogen is known to modulate immune function.
- Lymph node post-capillary venules play a role in lymphocyte trafficking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrastructural changes in lymph node post-capillary venules following estrogen administration in mice.
- To explore the potential link between estrogen-induced venule changes and sex differences in immune responses.
Main Methods:
- Ultrastructural analysis of lymph node post-capillary venules using 1-micron sections and electron microscopy.
- Comparative study in male and female mice at multiple time points after Hexoestrol administration.
Main Results:
- Endothelial cells of post-capillary venules were taller in female than male control mice.
- Hexoestrol administration increased endothelial cell height, ribosome, and Golgi element content in both sexes.
- Lysosomes, multivesicular bodies, and phagocytosis signs increased.
- Lymphocyte transmigration through venule walls significantly decreased.
Conclusions:
- Estrogen significantly alters the ultrastructure of lymph node post-capillary venules.
- These changes may contribute to sex differences in immune responses.
- Estrogen's effect on venules could be part of a broader impact on the reticuloendothelial system.