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Summary
Hirano bodies, eosinophilic inclusions, were found in all aged rectus superior extraocular muscles examined. Their presence suggests Hirano body formation is a common aging-related change in muscle fibers.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cell Biology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Hirano bodies are eosinophilic inclusions observed in various cell types.
- Their presence and composition in aged extraocular muscles are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and ultrastructure of Hirano bodies in aged human rectus superior extraocular muscles.
- To determine the association of Hirano bodies with aging.
Main Methods:
- Autopsy-derived rectus superior extraocular muscles from individuals over 60 years old were examined.
- Histological staining (Masson's trichrome) and protein staining were employed.
- Electron microscopy was used to analyze the filamentous structures within Hirano bodies.
Main Results:
- Hirano bodies were identified in all examined rectus superior extraocular muscles.
- These inclusions stained positively for protein and showed distinct filamentous substructures.
- The structures were associated with subsarcolemmal thin filaments, potentially actin.
Conclusions:
- The frequent occurrence of Hirano bodies in aged rectus superior extraocular muscles indicates a strong link to the aging process.
- Hirano body formation is likely an age-related alteration in muscle fiber composition.