[Intestinal mucosa of gnotobiotic rats administered lactobacilli]

When lactobacilli are administered to gnotobiotic rats (Fischer strain), a gradual increase of lymphocytic, eosinophilic and mast cell infiltration of the intestinal connective tissue stroma, dilatation of vessels and their filling with lymphocytes is observed. Radioautographically 7 months later, migration and differentiation of enterocytes in the crypta--villus system of the iliac mucous tunic increases. In the mesenteric lymph nodes the postcapillary venules increase in number, lymphocytes migrate out of them, focal plasmocytic reaction with presence of some blastic forms takes place. Specific antibodies for lactobacilli in the blood serum either are absent or occur in low titers (1:2-1:8). Owing to the data obtained, a conclusion can be made on a weak immunogenecity of the lactobacilli. Their administration to the germ-free rats produces a certain cellular reaction, probably T-dependent, though any definite signs of hormonal response are absent. One--14 days after lactobacilli have been injected, in the rat intestine mucous tunic no microorganisms are revealed to fix to enterocytes. In cytoplasm of the absorbtive cell villi, the Golgi complex is subjected to hyperplasia and occupies an essential area over the nucleus. Within its cysterns, as well as in the mitochondrial and nuclear membrane areas, myelin-like bodies are revealed; evidently, they demonstrate certain changes in peroxidic oxidation of lipids..