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Sanches BDA, Teófilo FBS, Brunet MY, Villapun VM, Man K, Rocha LC, Neto JP, Matsumoto MR, Maldarine JS, Ciena AP, Cox SC, Carvalho HF. Telocytes: current methods of research, challenges and future perspectives. Cell Tissue Res 2024; 396:141-155. [PMID: 38539007 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-024-03888-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Telocytes (TCs) are CD34-positive interstitial cells that have long cytoplasmic projections, called telopodes; they have been identified in several organs and in various species. These cells establish a complex communication network between different stromal and epithelial cell types, and there is growing evidence that they play a key role in physiology and pathology. In many tissues, TC network impairment has been implicated in the onset and progression of pathological conditions, which makes the study of TCs of great interest for the development of novel therapies. In this review, we summarise the main methods involved in the characterisation of these cells as well as their inherent difficulties and then discuss the functional assays that are used to uncover the role of TCs in normal and pathological conditions, from the most traditional to the most recent. Furthermore, we provide future perspectives in the study of TCs, especially regarding the establishment of more precise markers, commercial lineages and means for drug delivery and genetic editing that directly target TCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno D A Sanches
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Carl von Linnaeus St. Bldg G1, Bertrand Russel Ave., Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Francisco B S Teófilo
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Carl von Linnaeus St. Bldg G1, Bertrand Russel Ave., Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mathieu Y Brunet
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Victor M Villapun
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Kenny Man
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery & Special Dental Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3508 GA, The Netherlands
- Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, Utrecht, 3584 CT, The Netherlands
| | - Lara C Rocha
- Laboratory of Morphology and Physical Activity (LAMAF), Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 1515 24 A Ave., Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jurandyr Pimentel Neto
- Laboratory of Morphology and Physical Activity (LAMAF), Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 1515 24 A Ave., Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marta R Matsumoto
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Carl von Linnaeus St. Bldg G1, Bertrand Russel Ave., Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Juliana S Maldarine
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Carl von Linnaeus St. Bldg G1, Bertrand Russel Ave., Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adriano P Ciena
- Laboratory of Morphology and Physical Activity (LAMAF), Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 1515 24 A Ave., Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sophie C Cox
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Hernandes F Carvalho
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Carl von Linnaeus St. Bldg G1, Bertrand Russel Ave., Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Junatas KL, Couck L, Tay H, Sinowatz F, Van Den Broeck W. Ultrastructural evidence of telocytes in the embryonic chick heart. Anat Histol Embryol 2024; 53:e12970. [PMID: 37740674 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
The cardiac telocyte (TC) is a novel interstitial cell type with a unique ultrastructure and great potential in therapy. The present study examined its presence in the heart of chicken embryos ageing 7-15 days old (Hamburger-Hamilton [HH] stages 31-41) using transmission electron microscopy. TCs were identified across all stages in the atrial and ventricular myocardium, close to maturing cardiomyocytes, blood vessels and lymphatics. Early-stage TCs have immature features resembling mesenchymal cells. Late-stage TCs were distinct, possessing the cytoplasmic prolongations termed telopodes (Tps), which are very long and thin, usually 1-3 in number, and display a moniliform appearance and have an average thickness below 0.2 μm. TCs residing in the epicardium and endocardium were also detected. In the subepicardium near developing coronary vessels, they were localized in the cardiac stem cell niches, coexisting with cardiac stem cells and cardiomyocyte progenitors. Electron-dense structures and the release of extracellular vesicles were observed between embryonic TCs and surrounding structures, suggesting roles in intercellular communication, cardiomyocyte differentiation and maturation, angiogenesis, and stem cell nursing and guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khan Lamanero Junatas
- Department of Morphology, Medical Imaging, Orthopaedics, Physiotherapy and Nutrition - Laboratory of Morphology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Southern Mindanao, Cotabato, Philippines
| | - Liesbeth Couck
- Department of Morphology, Medical Imaging, Orthopaedics, Physiotherapy and Nutrition - Laboratory of Morphology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Hanna Tay
- Department of Morphology, Medical Imaging, Orthopaedics, Physiotherapy and Nutrition - Laboratory of Morphology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Fred Sinowatz
- Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Wim Van Den Broeck
- Department of Morphology, Medical Imaging, Orthopaedics, Physiotherapy and Nutrition - Laboratory of Morphology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
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Telocytes: Active Players in the Rainbow Trout ( Oncorhynchus mykiss) Intestinal Stem-Cell Niche. Animals (Basel) 2021; 12:ani12010074. [PMID: 35011180 PMCID: PMC8744786 DOI: 10.3390/ani12010074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to improve the sustainability of trout farming, it is essential to develop alternatives to fish-based meals that prevent intestinal disorders and support growth performances. Therefore, an accurate knowledge of intestinal morphology and physiology is desirable. We previously described the epithelial component of the intestinal stem-cell (ISC) niche in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), which is one of the most successfully farmed species and a representative model of the salmonids family. This work aims to expand that knowledge by investigating the niche stromal components that contribute to intestinal homeostasis. We analyzed samples belonging to five individuals collected from a local commercial farm. Histological and ultrastructural studies revealed peculiar mesenchymal cells adjacent to the epithelium that generated an intricate mesh spanning from the folds' base to their apex. Their voluminous nuclei, limited cytoplasm and long cytoplasmic projections characterized them as telocytes (TCs). TEM analysis showed the secretion of extracellular vesicles, suggesting their functional implication in cell-to-cell communication. Furthermore, we evaluated the localization of well-defined mouse TC markers (pdgfrα and foxl1) and their relationship with the epithelial component of the niche. TCs establish a direct connection with ISCs and provide short-range signaling, which also indicates their key role as the mesenchymal component of the stem-cell niche in this species. Interestingly, the TC distribution and gene-expression pattern in rainbow trout closely overlapped with those observed in mice, indicating that they have the same functions in both species. These results substantially improve our understanding of the mechanisms regulating intestinal homeostasis and will enable a more detailed evaluation of innovative feed effects.
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Reyes Nicolás V, Allaire JM, Alfonso AB, Pupo Gómez D, Pomerleau V, Giroux V, Boudreau F, Perreault N. Altered Mucus Barrier Integrity and Increased Susceptibility to Colitis in Mice upon Loss of Telocyte Bone Morphogenetic Protein Signalling. Cells 2021; 10:2954. [PMID: 34831177 PMCID: PMC8616098 DOI: 10.3390/cells10112954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
FoxL1+-Telocytes (TCFoxL1+) are subepithelial cells that form a network underneath the epithelium. We have shown that without inflammatory stress, mice with loss of function in the BMP signalling pathway in TCFoxL1+ (BmpR1aΔFoxL1+) initiated colonic neoplasia. Although TCFoxL1+ are modulated in IBD patients, their specific role in this pathogenesis remains unclear. Thus, we investigated how the loss of BMP signalling in TCFoxL1+ influences the severity of inflammation and fosters epithelial recovery after inflammatory stress. BmpR1a was genetically ablated in mouse colonic TCFoxL1+. Experimental colitis was performed using a DSS challenge followed by recovery steps to assess wound healing. Physical barrier properties, including mucus composition and glycosylation, were assessed by alcian blue staining, immunofluorescences and RT-qPCR. We found that BmpR1aΔFoxL1+ mice had impaired mucus quality, and upon exposure to inflammatory challenges, they had increased susceptibility to experimental colitis and delayed healing. In addition, defective BMP signalling in TCFoxL1+ altered the functionality of goblet cells, thereby affecting mucosal structure and promoting bacterial invasion. Following inflammatory stress, TCFoxL1+ with impaired BMP signalling lose their homing signal for optimal distribution along the epithelium, which is critical in tissue regeneration after injury. Overall, our findings revealed key roles of BMP signalling in TCFoxL1+ in IBD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Nathalie Perreault
- Département d’Immunologie et Biologie Cellulaire, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1E 4K8, Canada; (V.R.N.); (J.M.A.); (A.B.A.); (D.P.G.); (V.P.); (V.G.); (F.B.)
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Sukhacheva TV, Nizyaeva NV, Samsonova MV, Cherniaev AL, Burov AA, Iurova MV, Shchegolev AI, Serov RA, Sukhikh GT. Morpho-functional changes of cardiac telocytes in isolated atrial amyloidosis in patients with atrial fibrillation. Sci Rep 2021; 11:3563. [PMID: 33574429 PMCID: PMC7878494 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-82554-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Telocytes are interstitial cells with long, thin processes by which they contact each other and form a network in the interstitium. Myocardial remodeling of adult patients with different forms of atrial fibrillation (AF) occurs with an increase in fibrosis, age-related isolated atrial amyloidosis (IAA), cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and myolysis. This study aimed to determine the ultrastructural and immunohistochemical features of cardiac telocytes in patients with AF and AF + IAA. IAA associated with accumulation of atrial natriuretic factor was detected in 4.3-25% biopsies of left (LAA) and 21.7-41.7% of right (RAA) atrial appendage myocardium. Telocytes were identified at ultrastructural level more often in AF + IAA, than in AF group and correlated with AF duration and mitral valve regurgitation. Telocytes had ultrastructural signs of synthetic, proliferative, and phagocytic activity. Telocytes corresponded to CD117+, vimentin+, CD34+, CD44+, CD68+, CD16+, S100-, CD105- immunophenotype. No significant differences in telocytes morphology and immunophenotype were found in patients with various forms of AF. CD68-positive cells were detected more often in AF + IAA than AF group. We assume that in aged AF + IAA patients remodeling of atrial myocardium provoked transformation of telocytes into "transitional forms" combining the morphological and immunohistochemical features with signs of fibroblast-, histiocyte- and endotheliocyte-like cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatyana V Sukhacheva
- A.N. Bakulev National Medical Research Center of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Ministry of Health of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Natalia V Nizyaeva
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology Named After Academician V.I. Kulakov of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, 117997
| | - Maria V Samsonova
- Pulmonology Scientific Research Institute under Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russian Federation, Moscow, 115682, Russia
| | - Andrey L Cherniaev
- Pulmonology Scientific Research Institute under Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russian Federation, Moscow, 115682, Russia
| | - Artem A Burov
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology Named After Academician V.I. Kulakov of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, 117997
| | - Mariia V Iurova
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology Named After Academician V.I. Kulakov of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, 117997
- First Moscow State Medical University Named After I.M. Sechenov, Moscow, Russia
| | - Aleksandr I Shchegolev
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology Named After Academician V.I. Kulakov of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, 117997
| | - Roman A Serov
- A.N. Bakulev National Medical Research Center of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Ministry of Health of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Gennady T Sukhikh
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology Named After Academician V.I. Kulakov of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, 117997
- First Moscow State Medical University Named After I.M. Sechenov, Moscow, Russia
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Lis GJ, Dubrowski A, Lis M, Solewski B, Witkowska K, Aleksandrovych V, Jasek-Gajda E, Hołda MK, Gil K, Litwin JA. Identification of CD34+/PGDFRα+ Valve Interstitial Cells (VICs) in Human Aortic Valves: Association of Their Abundance, Morphology and Spatial Organization with Early Calcific Remodeling. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176330. [PMID: 32878299 PMCID: PMC7503258 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Aortic valve interstitial cells (VICs) constitute a heterogeneous population involved in the maintenance of unique valvular architecture, ensuring proper hemodynamic function but also engaged in valve degeneration. Recently, cells similar to telocytes/interstitial Cajal-like cells described in various organs were found in heart valves. The aim of this study was to examine the density, distribution, and spatial organization of a VIC subset co-expressing CD34 and PDGFRα in normal aortic valves and to investigate if these cells are associated with the occurrence of early signs of valve calcific remodeling. We examined 28 human aortic valves obtained upon autopsy. General valve morphology and the early signs of degeneration were assessed histochemically. The studied VICs were identified by immunofluorescence (CD34, PDGFRα, vimentin), and their number in standardized parts and layers of the valves was evaluated. In order to show the complex three-dimensional structure of CD34+/PDGFRα+ VICs, whole-mount specimens were imaged by confocal microscopy, and subsequently rendered using the Imaris (Bitplane AG, Zürich, Switzerland) software. CD34+/PDGFRα+ VICs were found in all examined valves, showing significant differences in the number, distribution within valve tissue, spatial organization, and morphology (spherical/oval without projections; numerous short projections; long, branching, occasionally moniliform projections). Such a complex morphology was associated with the younger age of the subjects, and these VICs were more frequent in the spongiosa layer of the valve. Both the number and percentage of CD34+/PDGFRα+ VICs were inversely correlated with the age of the subjects. Valves with histochemical signs of early calcification contained a lower number of CD34+/PDGFRα+ cells. They were less numerous in proximal parts of the cusps, i.e., areas prone to calcification. The results suggest that normal aortic valves contain a subpopulation of CD34+/PDGFRα+ VICs, which might be involved in the maintenance of local microenvironment resisting to pathologic remodeling. Their reduced number in older age could limit the self-regenerative properties of the valve stroma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grzegorz J. Lis
- Department of Histology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-034 Kraków, Poland; (E.J.-G.); (J.A.L.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Andrzej Dubrowski
- Department of Anatomy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-034 Kraków, Poland; (A.D.); (M.K.H.)
| | - Maciej Lis
- Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-008 Kraków, Poland; (M.L.); (B.S.); (K.W.)
- HEART—Heart Embryology and Anatomy Research Team, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-034 Kraków, Poland
| | - Bernard Solewski
- Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-008 Kraków, Poland; (M.L.); (B.S.); (K.W.)
| | - Karolina Witkowska
- Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-008 Kraków, Poland; (M.L.); (B.S.); (K.W.)
| | - Veronika Aleksandrovych
- Department of Pathophysiology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-121 Kraków, Poland; (V.A.); (K.G.)
| | - Ewa Jasek-Gajda
- Department of Histology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-034 Kraków, Poland; (E.J.-G.); (J.A.L.)
| | - Mateusz K. Hołda
- Department of Anatomy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-034 Kraków, Poland; (A.D.); (M.K.H.)
- HEART—Heart Embryology and Anatomy Research Team, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-034 Kraków, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Gil
- Department of Pathophysiology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-121 Kraków, Poland; (V.A.); (K.G.)
| | - Jan A. Litwin
- Department of Histology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-034 Kraków, Poland; (E.J.-G.); (J.A.L.)
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Sukhacheva TV, Nizyaeva NV, Samsonova MV, Chernyaev AL, Shchegolev AI, Serov RA. Telocytes in the Myocardium of Children with Congenital Heart Disease Tetralogy of Fallot. Bull Exp Biol Med 2020; 169:137-146. [PMID: 32488790 DOI: 10.1007/s10517-020-04840-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Telocytes, a new type of interstitial stem cells with long thin processes that form a three-dimensional network around cardiomyocytes, vessels, and nerve fibers were described in the myocardium of children with tetralogy of Fallot. Two types of morphologically different telocytes, spindle-shaped and rounded, were identified. Contacts of telocytes with stem cells and interstitial macrophages were found. Telocytes were more common in the immature myocardium, where the assembly of myofibrils in cardiomyocytes was not completed and small Ki-67+ cardiomyocyte progenitor cells were present. Telocytes expressed immunohistochemical markers CD117, vimentin, CD34, and CD44. Localization and ultrastructural characteristics of telocytes suggested their participation in stem cell differentiation, coordination of neoangiogenesis, and paracrine regulation of all components of the interstitium.
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Affiliation(s)
- T V Sukhacheva
- A. N. Bakulev National Medical Research Center of Cardiovascular Surgery, Ministry of Health of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia.
| | - N V Nizyaeva
- V. I. Kulakov National Research Medical Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - M V Samsonova
- Research Institute of Pulmonology, Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - A L Chernyaev
- Research Institute of Pulmonology, Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - A I Shchegolev
- V. I. Kulakov National Research Medical Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - R A Serov
- A. N. Bakulev National Medical Research Center of Cardiovascular Surgery, Ministry of Health of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
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Synovium-derived stromal cell-induced osteoclastogenesis: a potential osteoarthritis trigger. Clin Sci (Lond) 2019; 133:1813-1824. [DOI: 10.1042/cs20190169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose: To shed light on the idea that mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) recruited in synovium (SM) (i.e. Synovium-Derived Stromal Cells, SDSCs) could be involved in Osteoarthritis (OA) pathophysiology. Attention was also paid to a further stromal cell type with a peculiar ultrastructure called telocytes (TCs), whose role is far from clarified. Methods: In the present in vitro study, we compared SDSCs isolated from healthy and OA subjects in terms of phenotype, morphology and differentiation potential as well as in their capability to activate normal Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs). Histological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural analyses were integrated by qRT-PCR and functional resorbing assays. Results: Our data demonstrated that both SDSC populations stimulated the formation of osteoclasts from PBMCs: the osteoclast-like cells generated by healthy-SDSCs via transwell co-cultures were inactive, while OA-derived SDSCs have a much greater effectiveness. Moreover, the presence of TCs was more evident in cultures obtained from OA subjects and suggests a possible involvement of these cells in OA. Conclusions: Osteoclastogenic differentiation capability of PBMCs from OA subjects, also induced by B synoviocytes has been already documented. Here we hypothesized that SDSCs, generally considered for their regenerative potential in cartilage lesions, have also a role in the onset/maintenance of OA. Clinical relevance: Our observations may represent an interesting opportunity for the development of a holistic approach for OA treatment, that considers the multifaceted capability of MSCs in relation to the environment.
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Petrea C, Crăiţoiu Ş, Vrapciu A, Mănoiu V, Rusu M. The telopode- and filopode-projecting heterogeneous stromal cells of the human sclera niche. Ann Anat 2018; 218:129-140. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2017.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Revised: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Jiang XJ, Cretoiu D, Shen ZJ, Yang XJ. An in vitro investigation of telocytes-educated macrophages: morphology, heterocellular junctions, apoptosis and invasion analysis. J Transl Med 2018; 16:85. [PMID: 29615057 PMCID: PMC5883889 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-018-1457-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telocytes (TCs), a recently discovered novel type of interstitial cells, were also found in a wide variety of human and mammalian reproductive organs/tissues, including uterus, oviduct and placenta. Previously, we demonstrated that TCs-conditioned media was capable of activating peritoneal macrophages (pMACs) through paracrine effects. This study investigates the hypothesis that direct interaction of TCs with pMACs will also play a significant role in immunoregulation of pMACs. METHODS TCs and pMACs were derived from the uterus and intraperitoneal cavity of female BALB/c mice, respectively. TCs were identified by immunofluorescence and then co-cultured directly with pMACs for 24 h without added cytokines, to observe the in vitro biological behavior of pMACs. We used histochemical staining to study morphology and mitochondrial metabolism of pMACs, scanning electron microscopy to study heterocellular junctions, flow cytometry to investigate mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and apoptosis, and transwell chambers to study invasion ability. Student-t test was used accordingly. RESULTS Presently, TCs with typical structure and immunophenotype of double CD-34-positive/vimentin-positive were successfully isolated. pMACs co-cultured with TCs showed obviously morphological activation, with enhanced energy metabolism (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, direct physical cell-to-cell interaction promoted the development of heterocellular junctions between TCs and pMACs. Furthermore, TCs treatment markedly reduced the depletion of ΔΨm in co-cultured pMACs (all P < 0.05), and inhibited their apoptosis (P < 0.05). Functionally, pMACs co-cultured with TCs showed enhanced invasion ability (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Direct physical cell-to-cell interaction promoted the development of heterocellular junctions between TCs and pMACs, presumably responsible for the observed novel efficient way of pMACs activation via mitochondrial signaling pathway. TCs-educated pMACs might be a promising way to restore the defective immunosurveillance in endometriosis (EMs), led to the enhanced treatment efficacy of EMs in a simple and clinically feasible fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Juan Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Road, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Dragos Cretoiu
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania.,Materno-Fetal Assistance Excellence Unit, Alessandrescu-Rusescu National Institute of Mother and Child Health, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Zong-Ji Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Road, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Jun Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Road, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China.
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Hostiuc S, Marinescu M, Costescu M, Aluaș M, Negoi I. Cardiac telocytes. From basic science to cardiac diseases. II. Acute myocardial infarction. Ann Anat 2018; 218:18-27. [PMID: 29604385 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2018.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2017] [Revised: 01/28/2018] [Accepted: 02/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this study was to evaluate the scientific evidence regarding a potential role of telocytes in myocardial infarction. MATERIALS AND METHODS To this purpose, we performed a systematic review of relevant scientific literature, indexed in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS We found six articles containing relevant studies aimed at liking myocardial infarction and telocytes. The studies that were analysed in this review failed to show, beyond a reasonable doubt, that telocytes do actually have significant roles in myocardial regeneration after myocardial infarction. The main issues to be addressed in future studies are a correct characterization of telocytes, and a differentiation from other cell types that either have similar morphologies (using electron microscopy) or similar immunophenotypes, with emphasis on endothelial progenitors, which were previously shown to have similar morphology, and functions in cardiac regeneration after myocardial infarction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sorin Hostiuc
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania.
| | - Mihai Marinescu
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihnea Costescu
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Maria Aluaș
- Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ionut Negoi
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
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Marini M, Ibba-Manneschi L, Manetti M. Cardiac Telocyte-Derived Exosomes and Their Possible Implications in Cardiovascular Pathophysiology. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 998:237-254. [PMID: 28936744 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-4397-0_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Among cardiac interstitial cells, the recently described telocytes (TCs) display the unique ability to build a supportive three-dimensional network formed by their very long and thin prolongations named telopodes. Cardiac TCs are increasingly regarded as pivotal regulators in intercellular signaling with multiple cell types, such as cardiomyocytes, stem/progenitor cells, microvessels, nerve endings, fibroblasts and immune cells, thus converting the cardiac stromal compartment into an integrated system that may drive either heart development or maintenance of cardiac homeostasis in post-natal life. Besides direct intercellular communications between TCs and neighboring cells, different types of TC-released extracellular vesicles (EVs), namely exosomes, ectosomes and multivesicular cargos, may act as shuttles for paracrine molecular signal exchange between cardiac TCs and cardiomyocytes or putative cardiomyocyte progenitors. In this review, we summarize the recent research findings on cardiac TCs and their EVs. We first provide an overview of the general features of TCs, including their peculiar morphological traits and immunophenotypes, intercellular signaling mechanisms and possible functional roles. Thereafter, we describe the distribution of TCs in normal and diseased hearts, as well as their role as intercellular communicators via the release of exosomes and other types of EVs. Finally, the involvement of cardiac TCs in cardiovascular diseases and the potential utility of TC transplantation and TC-derived exosomes in cardiac regeneration and repair are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirca Marini
- Section of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, Florence, 50134, Italy
| | - Lidia Ibba-Manneschi
- Section of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, Florence, 50134, Italy
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Section of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, Florence, 50134, Italy.
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Abstract
Cholesterol gallstone disease is highly prevalent in Western countries, particularly in women and some specific ethnic groups. The mechanisms behind the formation of gallstones are not clearly understood, but gallbladder dysmotility seems to be a key factor that triggers the precipitation of cholesterol microcrystals from supersaturated lithogenic bile.Given that newly described interstitial cells, telocytes, are present in the gallbladder and they are located in close vicinity of smooth muscle cell and neural fibers possibly interfering with gallbladder motility or contractility, authors are trying to summarize the current knowledge on the role of telocytes with respect to disturbed gallbladder function in gallstone disease.
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Szotek S, Dawidowicz J, Eyden B, Matysiak N, Czogalla A, Dudzik G, Leśniewicz A, Maksymowicz K. Morphological features of fascia lata in relation to fascia diseases. Ultrastruct Pathol 2016; 40:297-310. [PMID: 27762645 DOI: 10.1080/01913123.2016.1239665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Fascia lata is an important element of the fascial system, which forms the continuum of connective tissue throughout the body. This deep fascia envelops the entire thigh and hip area and its main function is to transmit mechanical forces generated by the musculoskeletal system of the lower extremities. Fascia lata is also known as a useful and easily harvested graft material. Despite its crucial role in lower extremity biomechanics and wide-ranging applications in plastic and reconstructive surgery, both the structure of fascia lata and particularly the cells populating this tissue are relatively unexplored and therefore poorly understood. The aim of this study was to characterize the main cell populations encountered within human fascia lata and to try to understand their role in health and diseases. Pathologically unchanged human fascia lata was obtained post mortem from adult males. The specimens were analyzed under light, electron, and confocal microscopy. On the basis of different visualization techniques, we were able to characterize in detail the cells populating human fascia lata. The main cells found were fibroblasts, fibrocytes, mast cells, cells showing myoid differentiation, nerve cells, and most interestingly, telocytes. Our results supplement the formerly inadequate information in the literature regarding the cellular components of deep fascial structure, may contribute to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of fascial disorders and improve fascia lata application as a graft material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Szotek
- a Department of Biomedical Engineering, Mechatronics and Theory of Mechanisms, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering , Wrocław University of Science and Technology , Wrocław , Poland
| | | | - Brian Eyden
- c Christie NHS Foundation Trust , Manchester , United Kingdom
| | - Natalia Matysiak
- d Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine with the Division of Dentistry in Zabrze , Medical University of Silesia , Zabrze , Poland
| | - Aleksander Czogalla
- e Department of Cytobiochemistry, Faculty of Biotechnology , University of Wrocław , Wrocław , Poland
| | - Grzegorz Dudzik
- f Chair of EM Field Theory, Electronic Circuits and Optoelectronics, Faculty of Electronics , Wrocław University of Science and Technology , Wrocław , Poland
| | - Anna Leśniewicz
- g Analytical Chemistry and Chemical Metallurgy Division, Faculty of Chemistry , Wrocław University of Science and Technology , Wrocław , Poland
| | - Krzysztof Maksymowicz
- h Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine , Wroclaw Medical University , Wrocław , Poland
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15
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Kostin S. Cardiac telocytes in normal and diseased hearts. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2016; 55:22-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2016.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Aleksandrovych V, Walocha JA, Gil K. Telocytes in female reproductive system (human and animal). J Cell Mol Med 2016; 20:994-1000. [PMID: 27060783 PMCID: PMC4882995 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Telocytes (TCs) are a newly discovered type of cell with numerous functions. They have been found in a large variety of organs: heart (endo‐, myo‐, epi‐ and pericardium, myocardial sleeves, heart valves); digestive tract and annex glands (oesophagus, stomach, duodenum, jejunum, liver, gallbladder, salivary gland, exocrine pancreas); respiratory system (trachea and lungs); urinary system (kidney, renal pelvis, ureters, bladder, urethra); female reproductive system (uterus, Fallopian tube, placenta, mammary gland); vasculature (blood vessels, thoracic duct); serous membranes (mesentery and pleura); and other organs (skeletal muscle, meninges and choroid plexus, neuromuscular spindles, fascia lata, skin, eye, prostate, bone marrow). Likewise, TCs are widely distributed in vertebrates (fish, reptiles, birds, mammals, including human). This review summarizes particular features of TCs in the female reproductive system, emphasizing their involvement in physiological and pathophysiological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jerzy A Walocha
- Department of Anatomy, Jagiellonian University, Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Gil
- Department of Pathophysiology, Jagiellonian University, Medical College, Krakow, Poland
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Cretoiu D, Gherghiceanu M, Hummel E, Zimmermann H, Simionescu O, Popescu LM. FIB-SEM tomography of human skin telocytes and their extracellular vesicles. J Cell Mol Med 2016; 19:714-22. [PMID: 25823591 PMCID: PMC4395186 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Accepted: 02/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We have shown in 2012 the existence of telocytes (TCs) in human dermis. TCs were described by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) as interstitial cells located in non-epithelial spaces (stroma) of many organs (see www.telocytes.com). TCs have very long prolongations (tens to hundreds micrometers) named Telopodes (Tps). These Tps have a special conformation with dilated portions named podoms (containing mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum and caveolae) and very thin segments (below resolving power of light microscopy), called podomers. To show the real 3D architecture of TC network, we used the most advanced available electron microscope technology: focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM) tomography. Generally, 3D reconstruction of dermal TCs by FIB-SEM tomography revealed the existence of Tps with various conformations: (i) long, flattened irregular veils (ribbon-like segments) with knobs, corresponding to podoms, and (ii) tubular structures (podomers) with uneven calibre because of irregular dilations (knobs) – the podoms. FIB-SEM tomography also showed numerous extracellular vesicles (diameter 438.6 ± 149.1 nm, n = 30) released by a human dermal TC. Our data might be useful for understanding the role(s) of TCs in intercellular signalling and communication, as well as for comprehension of pathologies like scleroderma, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dragos Cretoiu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania; Victor Babeș National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
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Bei Y, Zhou Q, Sun Q, Xiao J. Telocytes in cardiac regeneration and repair. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2016; 55:14-21. [PMID: 26826525 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2016.01.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Telocytes (TCs) are a novel type of stromal cells reported by Popescu's group in 2010. The unique feature that distinguishes TCs from other "classical" stromal cells is their extremely long and thin telopodes (Tps). As evidenced by electron microscopy, TCs are widely distributed in almost all tissues and organs. TCs contribute to form a three-dimensional interstitial network and play as active regulators in intercellular communication via homocellular/heterocellular junctions or shed vesicles. Interestingly, increasing evidence suggests the potential role of TCs in regenerative medicine. Although the heart retains some limited endogenous regenerative capacity, cardiac regenerative and repair response is however insufficient to make up the loss of cardiomyocytes upon injury. Developing novel strategies to increase cardiomyocyte renewal and repair is of great importance for the treatment of cardiac diseases. In this review, we focus on the role of TCs in cardiac regeneration and repair. We particularly describe the intercellular communication between TCs and cardiomyocytes, stem/progenitor cells, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts. Also, we discuss the current knowledge about TCs in cardiac repair after myocardial injury, as well as their potential roles in cardiac development and aging. TC-based therapy or TC-derived exosome delivery might be used as novel therapeutic strategies to promote cardiac regeneration and repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihua Bei
- Regeneration and Aging Lab, Experimental Center of Life Sciences, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Bio-Energy Crops, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Qiulian Zhou
- Regeneration and Aging Lab, Experimental Center of Life Sciences, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Qi Sun
- Regeneration and Aging Lab, Experimental Center of Life Sciences, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Junjie Xiao
- Regeneration and Aging Lab, Experimental Center of Life Sciences, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Bio-Energy Crops, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China.
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Ibba-Manneschi L, Rosa I, Manetti M. Telocyte implications in human pathology: An overview. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2016; 55:62-9. [PMID: 26805444 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2016.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Telocytes are a recently described interstitial cell population widely distributed in the stromal compartment of many organs in vertebrates, including humans. Owing to their close spatial relationship with multiple cell types, telocytes are universally considered as 'connecting cells' mostly committed to intercellular signaling by converting the interstitium into an integrated system that drives organ development and contributes to the maintenance of local tissue homeostasis. Increasing evidence indicates that telocytes may cooperate with tissue-resident stem cells to foster organ repair and regeneration, and that telocyte damage and dysfunction may occur in several disorders. The goal of this review is to provide an overview of the most recent findings concerning the implication of telocytes in a variety of pathologic conditions in humans, including heart disease, chronic inflammation and multiorgan fibrosis. Based on recent promising experimental data, there is realistic hope that by targeting telocytes alone or in tandem with stem cells, we might be able to promote organ regeneration and/or prevent irreversible end-stage organ damage in different pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Ibba-Manneschi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Irene Rosa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy.
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20
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Boos AM, Weigand A, Brodbeck R, Beier JP, Arkudas A, Horch RE. The potential role of telocytes in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2016; 55:70-8. [PMID: 26805441 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2016.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2015] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Research and ideas for potential applications in the field of Tissue Engineering (TE) and Regenerative Medicine (RM) have been constantly increasing over recent years, basically driven by the fundamental human dream of repairing and regenerating lost tissue and organ functions. The basic idea of TE is to combine cells with putative stem cell properties with extracellular matrix components, growth factors and supporting matrices to achieve independently growing tissue. As a side effect, in the past years, more insights have been gained into cell-cell interaction and how to manipulate cell behavior. However, to date the ideal cell source has still to be found. Apart from commonly known various stem cell sources, telocytes (TC) have recently attracted increasing attention because they might play a potential role for TE and RM. It becomes increasingly evident that TC provide a regenerative potential and act in cellular communication through their network-forming telopodes. While TE in vitro experiments can be the first step, the key for elucidating their regenerative role will be the investigation of the interaction of TC with the surrounding tissue. For later clinical applications further steps have to include an upscaling process of vascularization of engineered tissue. Arteriovenous loop models to vascularize such constructs provide an ideal platform for preclinical testing of future therapeutic concepts in RM. The following review article should give an overview of what is known so far about the potential role of TC in TE and RM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja M Boos
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Laboratory for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, University Hospital of Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuernberg (FAU), Krankenhausstr. 12, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Annika Weigand
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Laboratory for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, University Hospital of Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuernberg (FAU), Krankenhausstr. 12, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Rebekka Brodbeck
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Laboratory for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, University Hospital of Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuernberg (FAU), Krankenhausstr. 12, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Justus P Beier
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Laboratory for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, University Hospital of Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuernberg (FAU), Krankenhausstr. 12, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andreas Arkudas
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Laboratory for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, University Hospital of Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuernberg (FAU), Krankenhausstr. 12, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Raymund E Horch
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Laboratory for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, University Hospital of Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuernberg (FAU), Krankenhausstr. 12, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany
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21
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Banciu DD, Banciu A, Radu BM. Electrophysiological Features of Telocytes. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2016; 913:287-302. [PMID: 27796895 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-1061-3_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Telocytes (TCs) are interstitial cells described in multiple structures, including the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, urinary tract, uterus, and heart. Several studies have indicated the possibility that TCs are involved in the pacemaker potential in these organs. It is supposed that TCs are interacting with the neighboring muscular cells and their network contributes to the initiation and propagation of the electrical potentials. In order to understand the contribution of TCs to various excitability mechanisms, it is necessary to analyze the plasma membrane proteins (e.g., ion channels) functionally expressed in these cells. So far, potassium, calcium, and chloride currents, but not sodium currents, have been described in TCs in primary cell culture from different tissues. Moreover, TCs have been described as sensors for mechanical stimuli (e.g., contraction, extension, etc.). In conclusion, TCs might play an essential role in gastrointestinal peristalsis, in respiration, in pregnant uterus contraction, or in miction, but further highlighting studies are necessary to understand the molecular mechanisms and the cell-cell interactions by which TCs contribute to the tissue excitability and pacemaker potentials initiation/propagation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Dumitru Banciu
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei 91-95, Bucharest, 050095, Romania
| | - Adela Banciu
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei 91-95, Bucharest, 050095, Romania
| | - Beatrice Mihaela Radu
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei 91-95, Bucharest, 050095, Romania. .,Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, Verona, 37134, Italy.
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Telocytes in Cardiac Tissue Architecture and Development. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2016; 913:127-137. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-1061-3_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Popescu LM, Fertig ET, Gherghiceanu M. Reaching out: junctions between cardiac telocytes and cardiac stem cells in culture. J Cell Mol Med 2015; 20:370-80. [PMID: 26538457 PMCID: PMC4727556 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 07/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Telocytes (TCs) were previously shown by our group to form a tandem with stem/progenitor cells in cardiac stem cell (CSC) niches, fulfilling various roles in cardiac renewal. Among these, the ability to ‘nurse’ CSCs in situ, both through direct physical contact (junctions) as well as at a distance, by paracrine signalling or through extracellular vesicles containing mRNA. We employed electron microscopy to identify junctions (such as gap or adherens junctions) in a co‐culture of cardiac TCs and CSCs. Gap junctions were observed between TCs, which formed networks, however, not between TCs and CSCs. Instead, we show that TCs and CSCs interact in culture forming heterocellular adherens junctions, as well as non‐classical junctions such as puncta adherentia and stromal synapses. The stromal synapse formed between TCs and CSCs (both stromal cells) was frequently associated with the presence of electron‐dense nanostructures (on average about 15 nm in length) connecting the two opposing membranes. The average width of the synaptic cleft was 30 nm, whereas the average length of the intercellular contact was 5 μm. Recent studies have shown that stem cells fail to adequately engraft and survive in the hostile environment of the injured myocardium, possibly as a result of the absence of the pro‐regenerative components of the secretome (paracrine factors) and/or of neighbouring support cells. Herein, we emphasize the similarities between the junctions described in co‐culture and the junctions identified between TCs and CSCs in situ. Reproducing a CSC niche in culture may represent a viable alternative to mono‐cellular therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurențiu M Popescu
- Department of Advanced Studies, 'Victor Babeş' National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Emanuel T Fertig
- Electron Microscopy Laboratory, 'Victor Babeş' National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Gherghiceanu
- Electron Microscopy Laboratory, 'Victor Babeş' National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
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Telopodes of telocytes are influenced in vitro by redox conditions and ageing. Mol Cell Biochem 2015; 410:165-74. [PMID: 26335900 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-015-2548-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Telocytes (TCs) are a novel cell type identified among interstitial cells in various organs. TCs are characterized by very long cell processes (tens to hundreds micrometres) named telopodes (Tps) with uneven calibre: dilations (podoms) and very thin segments (podomers). However, little is known about the factors which influence Tps conformation. Recently, extracellular matrix proteins were found to influence Tps extension, adherence and spreading. Here, we show that oxidative stress and ageing influence formation of new Tps of TCs cultivated from human non-pregnant myometrium. Using real-time videomicroscopy, we found that ageing the TCs to passage 21 increased the ratio of Tps/TC number with about 50 %, whereas oxidative stress hindered formation of new Tps in both aged and young TCs (passage 7). Under oxidative stress, newly formed cell processes were up to 25 % shorter. Migration pathway length was decreased by 30-40 % for both young and aged cells in an oxidative stress environment. Contrary, addition of N-acetyl cysteine in cell culture medium shifted TCs morphology to a long and slender profile. In conclusion, we showed that TCs specific morphology in vitro is influenced by oxidative status balance, as well as ageing.
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Richter M, Kostin S. The failing human heart is characterized by decreased numbers of telocytes as result of apoptosis and altered extracellular matrix composition. J Cell Mol Med 2015; 19:2597-606. [PMID: 26311501 PMCID: PMC4627565 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2015] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Telocytes (TCs) are a novel type of interstitial cells only recently described. This study aimed at characterizing and quantifying TCs and telopodes (Tps) in normal and diseased hearts. We have been suggested that TCs are influenced by the extracellular matrix (ECM) composition. We used transmission electron microscopy and c-kit immunolabelling to identify and quantify TCs in explanted human hearts with heart failure (HF) because of dilated, ischemic or inflammatory cardiomyopathy. LV myectomy samples from patients with aortic stenosis with preserved ejection fraction and samples from donor hearts which could not be used for transplantation served as controls. Quantitative immunoconfocal analysis revealed that 1 mm2 of the normal myocardium contains 14.9 ± 3.4 TCs and 41.6 ± 5.9 Tps. As compared with the control group, the number of TCs and Tps in HF decreased more than twofold. There were no differences between HF and control in the number of Ki67-positive TCs. In contrast, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labelling-positive TCs increased threefold in diseased hearts as compared to control. Significant inverse correlations were found between the amount of mature fibrillar collagen type I and the number of TCs (r = −0.84; P < 0.01) and Tps (r = −0.85; P < 0.01). The levels of degraded collagens showed a significant positive relationship with the TCs numbers. It is concluded that in HF the number of TCs are decreased because of higher rates of TCs apoptosis. Moreover, our results indicate that a close relationship exists between TCs and the ECM protein composition such that the number of TCs and Tps correlates negatively with the amount of mature fibrillar collagens and correlates positively with degraded collagens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manfred Richter
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Kerckhoff-Clinic, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Sawa Kostin
- Max-Planck-Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
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Albulescu R, Tanase C, Codrici E, Popescu DI, Cretoiu SM, Popescu LM. The secretome of myocardial telocytes modulates the activity of cardiac stem cells. J Cell Mol Med 2015; 19:1783-94. [PMID: 26176909 PMCID: PMC4549029 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2015] [Accepted: 05/06/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Telocytes (TCs) are interstitial cells that are present in numerous organs, including the heart interstitial space and cardiac stem cell niche. TCs are completely different from fibroblasts. TCs release extracellular vesicles that may interact with cardiac stem cells (CSCs) via paracrine effects. Data on the secretory profile of TCs and the bidirectional shuttle vesicular signalling mechanism between TCs and CSCs are scarce. We aimed to characterize and understand the in vitro effect of the TC secretome on CSC fate. Therefore, we studied the protein secretory profile using supernatants from mouse cultured cardiac TCs. We also performed a comparative secretome analysis using supernatants from rat cultured cardiac TCs, a pure CSC line and TCs-CSCs in co-culture using (i) high-sensitivity on-chip electrophoresis, (ii) surface-enhanced laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry and (iii) multiplex analysis by Luminex-xMAP. We identified several highly expressed molecules in the mouse cardiac TC secretory profile: interleukin (IL)-6, VEGF, macrophage inflammatory protein 1α (MIP-1α), MIP-2 and MCP-1, which are also present in the proteome of rat cardiac TCs. In addition, rat cardiac TCs secrete a slightly greater number of cytokines, IL-2, IL-10, IL-13 and some chemokines like, GRO-KC. We found that VEGF, IL-6 and some chemokines (all stimulated by IL-6 signalling) are secreted by cardiac TCs and overexpressed in co-cultures with CSCs. The expression levels of MIP-2 and MIP-1α increased twofold and fourfold, respectively, when TCs were co-cultured with CSCs, while the expression of IL-2 did not significantly differ between TCs and CSCs in mono culture and significantly decreased (twofold) in the co-culture system. These data suggest that the TC secretome plays a modulatory role in stem cell proliferation and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radu Albulescu
- Biochemistry-Proteomics Department, Victor Babeş National Institute of PathologyBucharest, Romania
- National Institute for Chemical Pharmaceutical Research & DevelopmentBucharest, Romania
| | - Cristiana Tanase
- Biochemistry-Proteomics Department, Victor Babeş National Institute of PathologyBucharest, Romania
| | - Elena Codrici
- Biochemistry-Proteomics Department, Victor Babeş National Institute of PathologyBucharest, Romania
| | - Daniela I Popescu
- Biochemistry-Proteomics Department, Victor Babeş National Institute of PathologyBucharest, Romania
| | - Sanda M Cretoiu
- Division of Cell Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and PharmacyBucharest, Romania
- Department of Ultrastructural Pathology, Victor Babeş National Institute of PathologyBucharest, Romania
| | - Laurentiu M Popescu
- Division of Cell Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and PharmacyBucharest, Romania
- Department of Advanced Studies, Victor Babeş National Institute of PathologyBucharest, Romania
- * Correspondence to: Laurentiu M. POPESCU, MD, PhD, E-mail:
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Bei Y, Wang F, Yang C, Xiao J. Telocytes in regenerative medicine. J Cell Mol Med 2015; 19:1441-54. [PMID: 26059693 PMCID: PMC4511344 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2014] [Accepted: 03/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Telocytes (TCs) are a distinct type of interstitial cells characterized by a small cell body and extremely long and thin telopodes (Tps). The presence of TCs has been documented in many tissues and organs (go to http://www.telocytes.com). Functionally, TCs form a three-dimensional (3D) interstitial network by homocellular and heterocellular communication and are involved in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis. As important interstitial cells to guide or nurse putative stem and progenitor cells in stem cell niches in a spectrum of tissues and organs, TCs contribute to tissue repair and regeneration. This review focuses on the latest progresses regarding TCs in the repair and regeneration of different tissues and organs, including heart, lung, skeletal muscle, skin, meninges and choroid plexus, eye, liver, uterus and urinary system. By targeting TCs alone or in tandem with stem cells, we might promote regeneration and prevent the evolution to irreversible tissue damage. Exploring pharmacological or non-pharmacological methods to enhance the growth of TCs would be a novel therapeutic strategy besides exogenous transplantation for many diseased disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihua Bei
- Regeneration and Ageing Lab, Experimental Center of Life Sciences, School of Life Science, Shanghai UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Digestive Disease Institute, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai, China
| | - Changqing Yang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Digestive Disease Institute, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of MedicineShanghai, China
| | - Junjie Xiao
- Regeneration and Ageing Lab, Experimental Center of Life Sciences, School of Life Science, Shanghai UniversityShanghai, China
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Zhou Q, Wei L, Zhong C, Fu S, Bei Y, Huică RI, Wang F, Xiao J. Cardiac telocytes are double positive for CD34/PDGFR-α. J Cell Mol Med 2015; 19:2036-42. [PMID: 26082061 PMCID: PMC4549054 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2015] [Accepted: 04/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Telocytes (TCs) are a distinct type of interstitial cells, which are featured with a small cellular body and long and thin elongations called telopodes (Tps). TCs have been widely identified in lots of tissues and organs including heart. Double staining for CD34/PDGFR-β (Platelet-derived growth factor receptor β) or CD34/Vimentin is considered to be critical for TC phenotyping. It has recently been proposed that CD34/PDGFR-α (Platelet-derived growth factor receptor α) is actually a specific marker for TCs including cardiac TCs although the direct evidence is still lacking. Here, we showed that cardiac TCs were double positive for CD34/PDGFR-α in primary culture. CD34/PDGFR-α positive cells (putative cardiac TCs) also existed in mice ventricle and human cardiac valves including mitral valve, tricuspid valve and aortic valve. Over 87% of cells in a TC-enriched culture of rat cardiac interstitial cells were positive for PDGFR-α, while CD34/PDGFR-α double positive cells accounted for 30.25% of the whole cell population. We show that cardiac TCs are double positive for CD34/PDGFR-α. Better understanding of the immunocytochemical phenotypes of cardiac TCs might help using cardiac TCs as a novel source in cardiac repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiulian Zhou
- Regeneration and Ageing Lab, Experimental Center of Life Sciences, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Wei
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chongjun Zhong
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of NanTong University, Nantong, China
| | - Siyi Fu
- Regeneration and Ageing Lab, Experimental Center of Life Sciences, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yihua Bei
- Regeneration and Ageing Lab, Experimental Center of Life Sciences, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Radu-Ionuț Huică
- Department of Immunopathology, Victor Babeş National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Fei Wang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Digestive Disease Institute, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Junjie Xiao
- Regeneration and Ageing Lab, Experimental Center of Life Sciences, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
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Manole CG, Gherghiceanu M, Simionescu O. Telocyte dynamics in psoriasis. J Cell Mol Med 2015; 19:1504-19. [PMID: 25991475 PMCID: PMC4511349 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of telocytes (TCs) as distinct interstitial cells was previously documented in human dermis. TCs are interstitial cells completely different than dermal fibroblasts. TCs are interconnected in normal dermis in a 3D network and may be involved in skin homeostasis, remodelling, regeneration and repair. The number, distribution and ultrastructure of TCs were recently shown to be affected in systemic scleroderma. Psoriasis is a common inflammatory skin condition (estimated to affect about 0.1-11.8% of population), a keratinization disorder on a genetic background. In psoriasis, the dermis contribution to pathogenesis is frequently eclipsed by remarkable epidermal phenomena. Because of the particular distribution of TCs around blood vessels, we have investigated TCs in the dermis of patients with psoriasis vulgaris using immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). IHC and IF revealed that CD34/PDGFRα-positive TCs are present in human papillary dermis. More TCs were present in the dermis of uninvolved skin and treated skin than in psoriatic dermis. In uninvolved skin, TEM revealed TCs with typical ultrastructural features being involved in a 3D interstitial network in close vicinity to blood vessels in contact with immunoreactive cells in normal and treated skin. In contrast, the number of TCs was significantly decreased in psoriatic plaque. The remaining TCs demonstrated multiple degenerative features: apoptosis, membrane disintegration, cytoplasm fragmentation and nuclear extrusion. We also found changes in the phenotype of vascular smooth muscle cells in small blood vessels that lost the protective envelope formed by TCs. Therefore, impaired TCs could be a 'missed' trigger for the characteristic vascular pathology in psoriasis. Our data explain the mechanism of Auspitz's sign, the most pathognomonic clinical sign of psoriasis vulgaris. This study offers new insights on the cellularity of psoriatic lesions and we suggest that TCs should be considered new cellular targets in forthcoming therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- C G Manole
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania.,Laboratory of Ultrastructural Research, 'Victor Babeş' National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Gherghiceanu
- Laboratory of Ultrastructural Research, 'Victor Babeş' National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Olga Simionescu
- Department of Dermatology, Colentina University Hospital, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
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Alunno A, Ibba-Manneschi L, Bistoni O, Rosa I, Caterbi S, Gerli R, Manetti M. Telocytes in minor salivary glands of primary Sjögren's syndrome: association with the extent of inflammation and ectopic lymphoid neogenesis. J Cell Mol Med 2015; 19:1689-96. [PMID: 25753463 PMCID: PMC4511365 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 01/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been recently reported that telocytes, a stromal (interstitial) cell subset involved in the control of local tissue homeostasis, are hampered in the target organs of inflammatory/autoimmune disorders. Since no data concerning telocytes in minor salivary glands (MSGs) are currently available, aim of the study was to evaluate telocyte distribution in MSGs with normal architecture, non-specific chronic sialadenitis (NSCS) and primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS)-focal lymphocytic sialadenitis. Twelve patients with pSS and 16 sicca non-pSS subjects were enrolled in the study. MSGs were evaluated by haematoxylin and eosin staining and immunofluorescence for CD3/CD20 and CD21 to assess focus score, Tarpley biopsy score, T/B cell segregation and germinal center (GC)-like structures. Telocytes were identified by immunoperoxidase-based immunohistochemistry for CD34 and CD34/platelet-derived growth factor receptor α double immunofluorescence. Telocytes were numerous in the stromal compartment of normal MSGs, where their long cytoplasmic processes surrounded vessels and encircled both the excretory ducts and the secretory units. In NSCS, despite the presence of a certain degree of inflammation, telocytes were normally represented. Conversely, telocytes were markedly reduced in MSGs from pSS patients compared to normal and NSCS MSGs. Such a decrease was associated with both worsening of glandular inflammation and progression of ectopic lymphoid neogenesis, periductal telocytes being reduced in the presence of smaller inflammatory foci and completely absent in the presence of GC-like structures. Our findings suggest that a loss of MSG telocytes might have important pathophysiological implications in pSS. The specific pro-inflammatory cytokine milieu of pSS MSGs might be one of the causes of telocyte loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Alunno
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Lidia Ibba-Manneschi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Onelia Bistoni
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Irene Rosa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sara Caterbi
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Roberto Gerli
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Yang J, Chi C, Liu Z, Yang G, Shen ZJ, Yang XJ. Ultrastructure damage of oviduct telocytes in rat model of acute salpingitis. J Cell Mol Med 2015; 19:1720-8. [PMID: 25753567 PMCID: PMC4511368 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2014] [Accepted: 01/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute salpingitis (AS) is an inflammatory disease which causes severe damage to a subset of classically described cells lining in oviduct wall and contributes to interstitial fibrosis and fertility problems. Telocytes (TCs), a newly discovered peculiar type of stromal cells, have been identified in many organs, including oviduct, with proposed multiple potential bio-functions. However, with recent increasing reports regarding TCs alterations in disease-affected tissues, there is still lack of evidence about TCs involvement in AS-affected oviduct tissues and potential pathophysiological roles. We presently identified normal TCs by their characteristic ultrastructural features and immunophenotype. However, in AS-affected oviduct tissues, TCs displayed multiple ultrastructural damage both in cellular body and prolongations, with obvious loss of TCs and development of tissue fibrosis. Furthermore, TCs lose their interstitial 3-D network connected by homocellular or heterocellular junctions between TCs and adjacent cells. And especially, TCs connected to the activated immunocytes (mononuclear cells, eosinophils) and affected local immune state (repression or activation). Meanwhile, massive neutrophils infiltration and overproduced Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS), COX-2, suggested mechanism of inflammatory-induced TCs damage. Consequently, TCs damage might contribute to AS-induced structural and reproductive functional abnormalities of oviduct, probably via: (i) substances, energy and functional insufficiency, presumably, e.g. TC-specific genetic material profiles, ion channels, cytoskeletal elements, Tps dynamics, etc., (ii) impaired TCs-mediated multicellular signalling, such as homeostasis/angiogenesis, tissue repair/regeneration, neurotransmission, (iii) derangement of 3-D network and impaired mechanical support for TCs-mediated multicellular signals within the stromal compartment, consequently induced interstitial fibrosis, (iv) involvement in local inflammatory process/ immunoregulation and possibly immune-mediated early pregnancy failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Chi Chi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhen Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Gang Yang
- Lab Center, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zong-Ji Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Roatesi I, Radu BM, Cretoiu D, Cretoiu SM. Uterine Telocytes: A Review of Current Knowledge. Biol Reprod 2015; 93:10. [PMID: 25695721 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.125906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2014] [Accepted: 02/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Telocytes (TCs), a novel cell type, are briefly defined as interstitial cells with telopodes (Tps). However, a specific immunocytochemical marker has not yet been found; therefore, electron microscopy is currently the only accurate method for identifying TCs. TCs are considered to have a mesenchymal origin. Recently proteomic analysis, microarray-based gene expression analysis, and the micro-RNA signature clearly showed that TCs are different from fibroblasts, mesenchymal stem cells, and endothelial cells. The dynamics of Tps were also revealed, and some electrophysiological properties of TCs were described (such as membrane capacitance, input resistance, membrane resting potential, and absence of action potentials correlated with different ionic currents characteristics), which can be used to distinguish uterine TCs from smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Here, we briefly present the most recent findings on the characteristics of TCs and their functions in human pregnant and nonpregnant uteri.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iurie Roatesi
- Victor Babeş National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania Division of Cell Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Beatrice Mihaela Radu
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dragos Cretoiu
- Victor Babeş National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania Division of Cell Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sanda Maria Cretoiu
- Victor Babeş National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania Division of Cell Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
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Fu S, Wang F, Cao Y, Huang Q, Xiao J, Yang C, Popescu LM. Telocytes in human liver fibrosis. J Cell Mol Med 2015; 19:676-83. [PMID: 25661250 PMCID: PMC4369823 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2014] [Accepted: 12/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a wound-healing response which engages a variety of cell types to encapsulate injury. Telocyte (TC), a novel type of interstitial cell, has been identified in a variety of tissues and organs including liver. TCs have been reported to be reduced in fibrotic areas after myocardial infarction, human interstitial wall's fibrotic remodelling caused either by ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, and skin of systemic sclerosis. However, the role of TCs in human liver fibrosis remains unclear. Liver samples from human liver biopsy were collected. All samples were stained with Masson's trichrome to determine fibrosis. TCs were identified by several immunofluorescence stainings including double labelling for CD34 and c-kit/CD117, or vimentin, or PDGF Receptor-α, or β. We found that hepatic TCs were significantly decreased by 27%-60% in human liver fibrosis, suggesting that loss of TCs might lead to the altered organization of extracellular matrix and loss the control of fibroblast/myofibroblast activity and favour the genesis of fibrosis. Adding TCs might help to develop effective and targeted antifibrotic therapies for human liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyi Fu
- Regeneration and Ageing Lab and Experimental Center of Life Sciences, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China; Innovative Drug Research Center of Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
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Cismaşiu VB, Popescu LM. Telocytes transfer extracellular vesicles loaded with microRNAs to stem cells. J Cell Mol Med 2015; 19:351-8. [PMID: 25600068 PMCID: PMC4407601 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2014] [Accepted: 12/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Telocytes (TCs) are cells ubiquitously distributed in the body and characterized by very long and thin prolongations named telopodes (Tps). Cardiac TCs are the best characterized TCs for the moment. Tps release extracellular vesicles (EVs) in vivo and in vitro suggesting that TCs regulate the activity of other cells by vesicular paracrine signals. TCs have been found within the stem cell niche of several organs. Electron microscopy or electron tomography has shown that Tps are located in close vicinity of stem cells (SC). Since stem cell regulation by niche components involves paracrine signalling, we have investigated if TCs could be part of this mechanism. Using fluorescent labelling of cells and EVs with calcein and Cy5-miR-21 oligos, we provide evidence that TCs can modulate SC through EVs loaded with microRNAs. TCs deliver microRNA to cardiac stem cells (CSCs), as well as to other types of SCs (e.g. hematopoietic SC) indicating that this mechanism is not restricted to cardiac tissue. We also found that CSCs deliver microRNA loaded EVs to TCs, suggesting that there is a continuous, post-transcriptional regulatory signal back and forth between TCs and SC. In conclusion, our data reveal the existence of a reciprocal (bidirectional) epigenetic signalling between TCs and SC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeriu B Cismaşiu
- Laboratory of Cellular Medicine, "Victor Babeş" National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
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Popescu LM, Curici A, Wang E, Zhang H, Hu S, Gherghiceanu M. Telocytes and putative stem cells in ageing human heart. J Cell Mol Med 2014; 19:31-45. [PMID: 25545142 PMCID: PMC4288347 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2014] [Accepted: 11/14/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Tradition considers that mammalian heart consists of about 70% non-myocytes (interstitial cells) and 30% cardiomyocytes (CMs). Anyway, the presence of telocytes (TCs) has been overlooked, since they were described in 2010 (visit http://www.telocytes.com). Also, the number of cardiac stem cells (CSCs) has not accurately estimated in humans during ageing. We used electron microscopy to identify and estimate the number of cells in human atrial myocardium (appendages). Three age-related groups were studied: newborns (17 days–1 year), children (6–17 years) and adults (34–60 years). Morphometry was performed on low-magnification electron microscope images using computer-assisted technology. We found that interstitial area gradually increases with age from 31.3 ± 4.9% in newborns to 41 ± 5.2% in adults. Also, the number of blood capillaries (per mm2) increased with several hundreds in children and adults versus newborns. CMs are the most numerous cells, representing 76% in newborns, 88% in children and 86% in adults. Images of CMs mitoses were seen in the 17-day newborns. Interestingly, no lipofuscin granules were found in CMs of human newborns and children. The percentage of cells that occupy interstitium were (depending on age): endothelial cells 52–62%; vascular smooth muscle cells and pericytes 22–28%, Schwann cells with nerve endings 6–7%, fibroblasts 3–10%, macrophages 1–8%, TCs about 1% and stem cells less than 1%. We cannot confirm the popular belief that cardiac fibroblasts are the most prevalent cell type in the heart and account for about 20% of myocardial volume. Numerically, TCs represent a small fraction of human cardiac interstitial cells, but because of their extensive telopodes, they achieve a 3D network that, for instance, supports CSCs. The myocardial (very) low capability to regenerate may be explained by the number of CSCs, which decreases fivefold by age (from 0.5% to 0.1% in newborns versus adults).
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurentiu M Popescu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania; Division of Advanced Studies, 'Victor Babeş' National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
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Cretoiu D, Hummel E, Zimmermann H, Gherghiceanu M, Popescu LM. Human cardiac telocytes: 3D imaging by FIB-SEM tomography. J Cell Mol Med 2014; 18:2157-64. [PMID: 25327290 PMCID: PMC4224550 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2014] [Accepted: 09/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Telocyte (TC) is a newly identified type of cell in the cardiac interstitium (www.telocytes.com). TCs are described by classical transmission electron microscopy as cells with very thin and long telopodes (Tps; cellular prolongations) having podoms (dilations) and podomers (very thin segments). TCs’ three-dimensional (3D) morphology is still unknown. Cardiac TCs seem to be particularly involved in long and short distance intercellular signalling and, therefore, their 3D architecture is important for understanding their spatial connections. Using focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM) we show, for the first time, the whole ultrastructural anatomy of cardiac TCs. 3D reconstruction of cardiac TCs by FIB-SEM tomography confirms that they have long, narrow but flattened (ribbon-like) telopodes, with humps generated by the podoms. FIB-SEM tomography also confirms the network made by TCs in the cardiac interstitium through adherens junctions. This study provides the first FIB-SEM tomography of a human cell type.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Cretoiu
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania; 'Victor Babeş' National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
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Cretoiu SM, Popescu LM. Telocytes revisited. Biomol Concepts 2014; 5:353-69. [DOI: 10.1515/bmc-2014-0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Accepted: 09/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractTelocytes (TCs) are a novel interstitial (stromal) cell type described in many tissues and organs (www.telocytes.com). A TC is characterized by a small cell body (9–15 μm) and a variable number (one to five) of extremely long and thin telopodes (Tps), with alternating regions of podomers (∼80 nm) and podoms (250–300 nm). Tps are interconnected by homo- and heterocellular junctions and form three-dimensional networks. Moreover, Tps release three types of extracellular vesicles: exosomes, ectosomes, and multivesicular cargos, which are involved in paracrine signaling. Different techniques have been used to characterize TCs, from classical methods (light microscopy, electron microscopy) to modern ‘omics’. It is considered that electron microscopy is essential for their identification, and CD34/PDGFRα double immunohistochemistry can orientate the diagnosis. Functional evidence is accumulating that TCs may be intimately involved in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis and renewal by short- and long-distance intercellular communication. This review focuses on the most recent findings regarding TC features and locations and the principal hypotheses about their functions in normal and diseased organs. TC involvement in regenerative medicine is also considered.
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