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Updated: Aug 18, 2026
Preparing T Cell Growth Factor from Rat Splenocytes
Published on: October 31, 2007
Synthesis of platelet-derived growth factor by cells of splenic red pulp in normal rats
R E Dill1, E K Miller, B J Dyer
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, Baylor College of Dentistry, Dallas, TX 75246.
Abstract:
A population of cells in the spleens of normal rats was found to contain platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) B chain mRNA. These cells were found predominantly in the red pulp and nuclear morphology of some was consistent with that of macrophages. Similar cells were also shown by immunocytochemical staining to contain PDGF-AB/BB. These PDGF-positive cells were also found almost exclusively in the red pulp. It has been suggested by others that PDGF plays an important role in the function of the lymphohemopoietic microenvironment.
Insights
Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) B chain mRNA and PDGF-AB/BB were found in rat spleen red pulp cells, potentially macrophages. These findings suggest PDGF
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is implicated in regulating the lymphohemopoietic microenvironment.
- The specific cellular sources and localization of PDGF within the spleen are not fully elucidated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify cells expressing platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) B chain mRNA and protein within the normal rat spleen.
- To determine the localization of these PDGF-expressing cells within the splenic microenvironment.
Main Methods:
- Detection of PDGF B chain mRNA using molecular techniques.
- Immunocytochemical staining for PDGF-AB/BB protein.
- Morphological analysis of identified cell populations.
Main Results:
- A population of cells in the rat spleen red pulp was identified to contain PDGF B chain mRNA.
- Immunocytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of PDGF-AB/BB protein in similar cells.
- The nuclear morphology of some PDGF-positive cells was consistent with macrophages.
- PDGF-positive cells were predominantly located in the red pulp.
Conclusions:
- The rat spleen red pulp contains cells, including potential macrophages, that express PDGF B chain mRNA and protein.
- These findings contribute to understanding the role of PDGF in the splenic microenvironment and lymphohematopoiesis.
