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Developmental changes in intestinal globule leukocytes of normal rats
1Department of Anatomy, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan.
Cell and Tissue Research
|September 1, 1993
Summary
Globule leukocytes (GL) are abundant in newborn rats, decreasing to adult levels by week four. These intestinal cells mature postnatally, suggesting specific neonatal functions and a common origin with mucosal mast cells.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Developmental Biology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Globule leukocytes (GL) are intraepithelial cells found in the intestinal lining.
- Their role and development, particularly in non-infected states, are not fully understood.
- Understanding GL development is crucial for comprehending early immune system maturation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the changes in globule leukocytes (GL) during postnatal development in rat intestinal epithelium.
- To characterize the ultrastructural maturation and differentiation of GL.
- To explore the relationship between GL, mucosal mast cells (MMC), and their potential functions.
Main Methods:
- Postnatal observation of rat intestinal epithelium.
- Ultrastructural analysis of globule leukocytes (GL) and mucosal mast cells (MMC).
- Immunohistochemical staining for serotonin and IgE.
- Pharmacological induction of degranulation using dexamethasone and compound 48/80.
Main Results:
- Intestinal GL numbers were high in newborns, decreasing significantly by the fourth week.
- Ultrastructural analysis revealed morphological maturation of GL during development, with unique paracrystalline structures in their granules.
- GL and MMC stained for serotonin but not IgE, suggesting a shared origin but distinct characteristics. Dexamethasone induced GL degranulation, while compound 48/80 had no effect.
Conclusions:
- Globule leukocytes (GL) and mucosal mast cells (MMC) likely share a common embryonic origin.
- Immature GL migrate from the lamina propria into the epithelium for differentiation and maturation.
- Immature GL possess specific functions critical during the neonatal period.