Cytoplasmic granules in exfoliated buccal epithelial cells

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Histology
• Oral Pathology

Background:

• Cytoplasmic granules in exfoliated epithelial cells are common but their precise nature is not fully understood.
• Previous studies have provided limited ultrastructural and histochemical data on these granules.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the ultrastructure and histochemistry of cytoplasmic granules in healthy human cheek mucosa.
• To elucidate the origin and fate of these granules within epithelial cells.

Main Methods:

• Phase-contrast microscopy of unfixed cells.
• Electron microscopy for ultrastructural analysis.
• Histochemical staining for biochemical characterization.

Main Results:

• Cytoplasmic granules were observed in unfixed cells via phase-contrast microscopy.
• Ultrastructural analysis revealed discrete dense granular bodies, electron-dense masses, and mixtures with organelles.
• Histochemistry indicated staining similar to keratohyalin, with no lipid content detected.

Conclusions:

• The discrete granular bodies are identified as normal keratohyalin granules.
• Electron-dense masses represent keratohyalin granules in various stages of disintegration.
• Granule breakdown leads to the formation of indistinct cytoplasmic structures observed in exfoliated cells.