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Low-affinity nerve growth factor receptor immunoreactivity in the human urinary bladder
Y Wakabayashi1, T Tomoyoshi, I Tooyama
1Department of Urology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan.
Neuroscience Letters
|February 15, 1995
Summary
Low-affinity nerve growth factor receptor (LNGFR) is found in the human urinary bladder, primarily in the mucosa. This receptor localizes to Schwann cells and nerve fibers within the bladder tissue.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Neuroscience
- Histology
Background:
- The human urinary bladder contains a complex innervation crucial for its function.
- Nerve growth factor receptors play significant roles in neuronal development and function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the localization and distribution of low-affinity nerve growth factor receptor (LNGFR) in the human urinary bladder.
- To characterize the cellular and subcellular location of LNGFR within bladder tissues.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemistry was employed using a mouse monoclonal antibody (ME20-4) specific for human LNGFR.
- Light and electron microscopy were utilized to examine LNGFR distribution at the tissue and cellular levels.
Main Results:
- LNGFR immunoreactivity was detected throughout the human urinary bladder.
- LNGFR-positive nerve fibers were more abundant in the mucosa compared to the muscle layer.
- Co-localization of LNGFR with tyrosine hydroxylase suggests sympathetic nerve involvement.
- Electron microscopy revealed LNGFR on Schwann cell surfaces and at the axon-Schwann cell interface.
Conclusions:
- LNGFR is a component of the innervation in the human urinary bladder.
- The distribution suggests a role for LNGFR in bladder mucosal innervation, potentially involving sympathetic pathways.
- LNGFR is associated with Schwann cells, indicating its presence on peripheral nerve fibers.