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Ultrastructural localization of CD38 immunoreactivity in rat brain
M Yamada1, M Mizuguchi, N Otsuka
1Department of Pathology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Asahimachi-1, Japan. nori@bri.niigata-u.ac.jp
Brain Research
|May 9, 1997
Summary
This study maps CD38 protein in rat brain regions. CD38 is found in neurons and astrocytes, suggesting diverse roles in the central nervous system (CNS).
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Immunohistochemistry
Background:
- CD38 is an enzyme with known roles in immune cells.
- Its function and localization within the central nervous system (CNS) are less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the subcellular localization of CD38 in the rat cerebral and cerebellar cortices.
- To identify the specific cellular and subcellular compartments where CD38 is expressed in the brain.
Main Methods:
- Immunoelectron microscopy was employed to visualize CD38.
- Antibodies against CD38 were used to detect its presence in neuronal and glial cells.
Main Results:
- In the cerebral cortex, CD38 was found in pyramidal neurons (perikarya, dendrites) and associated with organelles like ER, ribosomes, mitochondria, and plasma membrane.
- In the cerebellum, CD38 was detected in various neurons (granule, Golgi, basket, Purkinje) and axon terminals, as well as synaptic vesicles.
- Both CNS regions showed CD38 labeling on the nuclear envelope (outer membrane).
- Astrocytes exhibited diffuse CD38 immunoreactivity throughout their structures, including perivascular areas.
- Oligodendrocytes and microglia were immunonegative for CD38.
Conclusions:
- CD38 localizes to diverse subcellular compartments within neurons and astrocytes in the rat brain.
- The widespread distribution suggests multiple functional roles for CD38 in neuronal and glial cells.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific functions of CD38 in the CNS.