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Studying the Stoichiometry of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor in Intact Cells using Correlative Microscopy
09:16

Studying the Stoichiometry of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor in Intact Cells using Correlative Microscopy

Published on: September 11, 2015

Subcellular localization of epidermal growth factor receptor in human submandibular gland

M S Lantini1, M Cossu, M Isola

  • 1Dipartimento di Citomorfologia, Università di Cagliari, Italy. lantini@unica.it

Journal of Anatomy
|April 28, 2006
PubMed

Insights

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFr) was found in normal human salivary gland cells. This receptor is located in vesicles near cell surfaces, suggesting roles in cell signaling and function.

Area of Science:

  • Cell Biology
  • Histology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFr) plays a crucial role in cell growth and differentiation.
  • Understanding EGFr localization within glandular tissues is key to comprehending its physiological functions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the subcellular distribution of EGFr in normal human submandibular gland cells.
  • To identify specific cellular compartments where EGFr is present.

Main Methods:

  • Immunogold cytochemistry was employed to visualize EGFr at the subcellular level.
  • Normal human submandibular gland tissue was analyzed for EGFr expression.

Main Results:

  • EGFr labeling was observed in both acinar and ductal cells of the submandibular gland.
  • Strong immunoreactivity for EGFr was associated with a tubulovesicular system near basolateral cell surfaces.
  • Reactive vesicles containing EGFr were found near secretory granules and at the apical region of ductal cells.

Conclusions:

  • EGFr is present in various compartments of human submandibular gland cells, including acinar and ductal cells.
  • Basolateral EGFr localization suggests internalization following ligand activation.
  • The functional significance of apical EGFr in ductal cells requires further investigation.

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