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Vascular mineralization in the monkey brain
1Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Agriculture, Gifu University, Japan.
Abstract:
Mineralization of various degrees was found in the brains of 79 (59%) of 134 cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis). There was no age dependency in the incidence or severity, nor were there any abnormalities in growth, weight gain, or neurologic signs, although a slight sex difference was observed. The lesions, which were basophilic and intensely positive for periodic acid-Schiff or von Kossa stain, occurred in the vascular walls of the globus pallidus in two types: globoid bodies with prominent concentric lamellar structures in and around the arteriolar and venular wall (type A) and fine granules in the media of small or medium-sized arteries (type B). Electron microscopic examination revealed dense deposits in the degenerated media of small or medium-sized arteries or the thickened walls of the arterioles. X-ray microanalysis demonstrated the presence of calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, magnesium, and aluminum.
Insights
Brain mineralization, a common finding in cynomolgus monkeys, affects vascular walls without impacting health. This study details the types and composition of these mineral deposits.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Primate Pathology
- Mineral Metabolism
Background:
- Mineralization in primate brains is not fully understood.
- Cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) are relevant models for studying neurological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the incidence, morphology, and composition of brain mineralization in cynomolgus monkeys.
- To investigate potential correlations with age, sex, and health parameters.
Main Methods:
- Histopathological examination using periodic acid-Schiff and von Kossa stains.
- Electron microscopy for ultrastructural analysis.
- X-ray microanalysis for elemental composition.
Main Results:
- Mineralization observed in 59% of 134 monkeys, primarily in globus pallidus vascular walls.
- Two distinct types of mineralization (globoid bodies and fine granules) were identified.
- Deposits contained calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, magnesium, and aluminum.
Conclusions:
- Brain mineralization is prevalent in cynomolgus monkeys and occurs in specific vascular patterns.
- The observed mineralization does not appear to affect growth, weight, or neurological function.
- Elemental analysis reveals a complex composition of these mineral deposits.