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Ultrastructural localization of tumour necrosis factor-alpha
E A Schmauder-Chock1, S P Chock, M L Patchen
1Department of Experimental Hematology, Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20889-5603.
The Histochemical Journal
|February 1, 1994
Summary
Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF) is found in immune cells and blood vessels after endotoxin exposure. This suggests TNF targets the immune system and vasculature during invasive stimuli.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF) is a key inflammatory cytokine.
- Understanding TNF localization is crucial for comprehending its role in disease.
- Previous studies have not fully elucidated TNF distribution in response to endotoxin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the cellular and subcellular localization of TNF in mice before and after endotoxin administration.
- To investigate the impact of endotoxin on TNF distribution within immune and vascular compartments.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemistry using an antibody against TNF was performed on plastic-embedded mouse tissue sections.
- Analysis included normal and endotoxin-treated C3N/HeN mice.
- Tissue samples were examined from bone marrow, spleen, lung, and proximal intestine.
Main Results:
- In normal mice, TNF was detected in Paneth cells and crypt endocrine cells.
- Following endotoxin treatment, Paneth cells and crypt endocrine cells degranulated.
- TNF appeared in secretory granules of eosinophils, neutrophils, and monocytes in multiple organs, as well as the internal elastic lamina of arterioles.
Conclusions:
- Endotoxin-induced TNF primarily localizes to immune cells and the vasculature.
- Circulating endotoxin primes immune cells with TNF and may induce TNF secretion by vascular cells.
- TNF in arterioles and venules may influence vascular tone and contribute to embolism formation.