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Selective binding and transcytosis of latex microspheres by rabbit intestinal M cells
M A Jepson1, N L Simmons, T C Savidge
1Gastrointestinal Drug Delivery Research Centre, Medical School, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
Abstract:
The interaction between polystyrene microspheres and the follicle-associated epithelium of rabbit Peyer's patches has been examined. Microspheres bind selectively to, and are transcytosed by, membranous or microfold (M) cells within the follicle-associated epithelium. M cells are able to transport, in 45 min, approximately 10(5) microspheres of 0.46 micron diameter across the epithelium overlying each lymphoid follicle dome of rabbit Peyer's patches. The high capacity of M cells for particulate transcytosis and the subsequent delivery of these particulates to the mucosal immune system highlights the potential importance of this portal in the delivery of antigens and drugs. In addition, the selective binding and uptake of microspheres may be utilised as a functional marker in the identification and isolation of M cells.
Insights
Microfold (M) cells in rabbit Peyer's patches efficiently transport polystyrene microspheres. This highlights their role in mucosal immunity and potential use for targeted drug and antigen delivery.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gastrointestinal Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The follicle-associated epithelium (FAE) of Peyer's patches plays a crucial role in mucosal immunity.
- Membranous or microfold (M) cells are specialized FAE cells involved in antigen sampling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the interaction between polystyrene microspheres and rabbit Peyer's patch FAE.
- To evaluate the capacity of M cells for microsphere transcytosis.
- To explore the potential of microsphere uptake as a marker for M cell identification.
Main Methods:
- Administration of polystyrene microspheres to rabbit Peyer's patches.
- Microscopic examination of microsphere binding and transport across the FAE.
- Quantification of microsphere transcytosis by M cells.
Main Results:
- Polystyrene microspheres selectively bind to and are transcytosed by M cells.
- M cells transport approximately 10^5 microspheres (0.46 micron diameter) per follicle dome in 45 minutes.
- High capacity for particulate transcytosis by M cells was observed.
Conclusions:
- M cells possess a high capacity for particulate transcytosis, delivering materials to the mucosal immune system.
- This M cell pathway is a significant portal for antigen and drug delivery.
- Microsphere binding and uptake can serve as a functional marker for identifying and isolating M cells.