Lectin-peroxidase reactivity in rat gastric mucosa

The localization of lectin-binding sites in the rat gastric mucosa was investigated using horseradish peroxidase-labeled lectin conjugates (Con A, DBA, PNA, RCA-1, SBA, UEA-1, WGA). The glandular epithelium of the cardiac gland was clearly stained with DBA, PNA and SBA. Surface epithelium of the fundic glands was intensely labeled with SBA and UEA-1, but weakly with RCA-1, and WGA. Staining for foveolar cells was intense with SBA and moderate with PNA, while Con A and RCA-1 showed negligible reactivity. Mucous neck cells were intensely stained with SBA, moderately with PNA, weakly with Con A, RCA-1 and WGA, and only, faintly with DBA. Chief cells reacted positively only with WGA. Surface epithelium of the pyloric gland was moderately labeled with DBA, SBA and WGA, and faintly with the other lectins. Glandular epithelial cells, which revealed a similar pattern to that of the surface epithelium, were stained more intensely. The present study provides additional information for elucidating the cellular and regional differences in lectin binding to the rat gastric mucosa.