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Pattern of apolipoprotein D immunoreactivity in human brain
A Navarro1, J Tolivia, A Astudillo
1Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Facultad de Biología y Medicina, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain.
Neuroscience Letters
|October 21, 1998
Summary
Apolipoprotein D (apo D), a transporter, is present in human brain cells, including white matter neuroglia and specific neurons in the brainstem and cerebellum. Its distribution suggests varied roles depending on cellular synthesis and location.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Apolipoprotein D (apo D) is a lipophilic ligand transporter.
- Understanding apo D distribution in the human brain is crucial for elucidating its function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and distribution of intracytoplasmic apolipoprotein D (apo D) in normal adult human brains.
- To explore potential variations in apo D's role based on its cellular localization and synthesis.
Main Methods:
- Utilized extravidin-biotin-enhanced immunohistochemistry with an anti-human apolipoprotein D antibody.
- Examined normal human brain tissue samples from individuals aged 20 to 55 years.
Main Results:
- Apo D immunoreactivity was detected in neuroglial cells of white matter across all studied brain regions.
- Pial cells, perivascular cells, and specific neuronal populations in the pons, brainstem, and cerebellum exhibited apo D.
- No apo D-positive neurons were observed in the cerebral cortex.
Conclusions:
- Apolipoprotein D is present in various cell types within the adult human brain, including glial and specific neuronal cells.
- The heterogeneous distribution of apo D suggests cell-specific functions and roles within the central nervous system.