Structure of the toad's urinary bladder as related to its physiology

Microvascular anatomy of the urinary bladder in the adult African clawed toad, Xenopus laevis: A scanning electron microscope study of vascular casts

We studied urinary bladders of adult male and female Xenopus laevis using light microscopy of stained tissue sections and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of vascular corrosion casts (VCCs). Results showed that bilaterally a vesical artery branched off the femoral artery. At the dorso‐lateral serosal surface of the body of the bladder each artery splitted within a short distance into up to five smaller arteries that supplied body and neck regions. Arteries gave off short and long terminal arterioles, which fed the mucosal capillary meshwork. Long terminal arterioles followed dimensional changes of the bladder, while short ones anchored the capillary network to the arterial system. Capillary mesh sizes and shapes varied according to the filling state of the urinary bladder. In the highly to moderately distended (filled) bladder, capillaries were rather straight or undulated only slightly, in the contracted (emptied) bladder they undulated strongly and lay side by side. Postcapillary venules formed by two equally sized capillaries or from capillaries, which serially drained into a small postcapillary venule. Vesical venules formed a large dorsal vesical and a varying number of smaller lateral and ventral vesical veins. The dorsal vesical vein drained either directly or via the posterior hemorrhoidal vein into the common pelvic vein. Lateral and ventral vesical veins also drained into the latter. The vascular patterns found were discussed in respect to the bladder spatial movements during distention (filling) and relaxation (emptying). Furthermore, it was hypothesized that an extensively filled bladder could compress the overlaying abdominal vein forcing part of the blood otherwise drained towards the liver to be detoured via the renal portal veins to the kidneys.

Chronic high-fat diet decreased detrusor mitochondrial respiration and increased nerve-mediated contractions

AIMS

To assess the impact of chronic high-fat diet (HFD) on behavioral voiding patterns, detrusor contractility, and smooth muscle mitochondrial function in male mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male C57BL/6J mice (6 weeks) were fed a control or HFD for 20 weeks. Bladder function was assessed by void spot assays. Bladders were collected and detrusor contractility to carbachol (10^-9 -10^-5  M), and electrical field stimulation (EFS, 0.5-32 Hz) in the presence and absence of atropine was measured. Homogenized detrusor samples were placed in oxygraphs to assess the rate of oxygen consumption of the mitochondria within the detrusor in the presence of different substrates. Mitochondrial hydrogen peroxide (H₂ O₂ ) emission was measured fluorometrically. Detrusor citrate synthase activity was measured via enzyme activity kit and Western blots assessed the electron transport chain (ETC) protein content.

RESULTS

HFD significantly increased body weight, adiposity, and blood glucose levels. HFD mice demonstrated increased voiding frequency and increased EFS-induced detrusor contractility. There were no changes in detrusor relaxation or cholinergic-medicated contraction. Mitochondrial respiration was decreased with HFD and H₂ O ₂ emission was increased. The relative amount of mitochondria in the detrusor was similar between groups. However, ETC complexes V and III were increased following HFD.

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic HFD increased adiposity, lead to more frequent voiding, and enhanced EFS-mediated detrusor contractions. Mitochondrial respiration was decreased and H₂ O ₂ emission increased following HFD. Further research is required to determine if alterations in mitochondrial function could play a role in the development of HFD-induced bladder dysfunction.

Physiological and morphological effects of poly-L-lysine on the toad bladder

Studies were carried out on the morphological and physiological effects of the binding of poly-L-lysine (polylysine; mol wt≊120,000) to the apical surface membrane of the toad bladder epithelium. Paired hemibladders were mounted in chambers and exposed to polylysine concentrations of 2, 8, or 80 μg/ml in the mucosal medium for periods of up to 2 hr. Radioautographs prepared after addition of(3)H-polylysine showed that the polymer was localized to the apical surface of the epithelium and in dense subapical masses in lysed cells. No significant morphological changes were seen in the epithelium by light or electron microscopy at polymer concentrations of 2 and 8 μg/ml. Exposure to 80 μg/ml lysed many epithelial cells, i.e., converted them to slightly swollen ghosts with pycnotic nuclei and empty cytoplasm, except for remnants of mitochondria and vesicular fragments of the endoplasmic reticulum. All of the superficial epithelial cells were lysed in stretched hemibladders. The plasma membranes of the lysed cells were uniformly thickened, and their intercellular attachments remained intact. In contracted hemibladders, lysed and normal-appearing cells were interspersed, and the number of lysed cells in the epithelium was proportional to the duration of exposure to high concentrations of the polycation. In parallel experiments, the effects of varying concentrations of polylysine on active Na(+) transport and osmotic flow of water were measured with and without vasopressin, aldosterone, or amphotericin B in the media. At a concentration of 2 μg/ml of polylysine in the mucosal bathing solutions, no change in the basal rate of Na(+) transport was seen, and the response to vasopressin was unimpaired. At a concentration of 8 μg/ml, there was a significant but small fall in electrical potential difference (PD) and in short-circuit current (SCC) and no interference with the response to vasopressin. At a concentration of 80 μg/ml, there was a rapid curvilinear fall in SCC to 54±4% of the baseline value and in PD to 21±3% of the baseline value in a 2-hr period. Simultaneous unidirectional isotope flux studies with(22)Na and(24)Na showed a more than twofold increase in the serosal to mucosal flux but no discrepancy between net flux and SCC. Despite the inhibitory action of the polymer, the stimulatory response in Na(+) transport to vasopressin, aldosterone, and amphotericin B was relatively preserved in that the percentage increase in SCC was the same in the polymer-treated and control hemibladders. The polycation produced a small but significant increase in osmotic water flow, and striking and irreversible inhibition of the water-flow response to vasopressin.

The cellular specificity of the effect of vasopressin on toad urinary bladder

Phase and electron micrographs of toad bladders were obtained following dilution of bathing media in the presence and absence of vasopressin. Dilution of the mucosal medium alone resulted in no morphologic changes. Subsequent addition of vasopressin produced an increase in the cell volume of the granular cells, manifested by some or all of the following changes: increased area of granular cell profiles as observed in sections, rounding of the cell nucleus, displacement of the two components of the nuclear envelope, loss of nuclear heterochromatin, sacculation of the endoplasmic reticulum and the Golgi apparatus, and reduction in the electron density of the cell cytoplasm. No such morphologic changes were noted in the other cell types comprising the mucosal epithelium - the mitochondria-rich, the goblet, and the basal cells. On the other hand, dilution of the serosal bathing medium in the absence of vasopressin caused a marked increase in the cell volume of all these cell types. The results demonstrate that the action of vasopressin to enhance bulk water flow across toad bladder is exerted specifically on the apical surface of the granular cells. It is suggested that the hormonal effect on sodium transport may also be limited to the granular cells. The route of osmotic water flow and the possible role of the other mucosal epithelial cells is discussed.

Removing the rubbish: frogs eliminate foreign objects from the body cavity through the bladder

During the course of a telemetry study on three species of Australian frogs (Litoria caerulea, Litoria dahlii and Cyclorana australis), we found that many of the surgically implanted transmitters had migrated into the bladder. We subsequently implanted small beads into L. caerulea and they were expelled from the body in 10-23 days. Beads implanted into cane toads (Rhinella marina) to document the process were either expelled or were enveloped into the bladder. This appears to be a unique pathway for expulsion of foreign objects from the body, and suggests that caution should be employed in telemetry studies when interpreting the separation of some animals from their transmitters as a mortality event.

The hydroosmotic response of frog urinary bladder to serosal hypertonicity is dependent on adenylate cyclase for its maintenance and affected by [Cl−]ochanges

The role of adenylate cyclase (AC) in the maintenance of the hydroosmotic response to serosal hypertonicity (SH) in anuran urinary bladder is disputed. In this study, norepinephrine (NE) significantly reversed the hydroosmotic response of Rana temporaria bladders in hypertonic medium (330 mosmol/kgH2O). The reversal was inhibited by yohimbine but was unaffected by prazosin and propranolol, indicating that NE action was mediated via α2-adrenergic receptors. Preincubation of bladders with indomethacin did not interfere with the inhibitory action of NE, contraindicating a role for prostaglandins. The SH hydroosmotic response was abolished in the presence of 5- n-ethyl- N-isopropyl amiloride (EIPA), but the antidiuretic hormone (ADH) hydroosmotic response was not. EIPA inhibits Na+/H+, known to be activated by cell shrinkage. An investigation of the anionic requirement of the SH hydroosmotic response revealed that replacement of bath Cl−with the nonpermeable anion gluconate reversibly abolished this response. In contrast, the hydroosmotic response to ADH was unaffected by Cl−removal; however, when Cl−was absent, it was no longer augmented in hypertonic bath. The SH response was inhibited by the Cl−channel blocker 5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino)benzoate but not by the Na/K/2Cl inhibitor bumetanide. Our results show that not only the onset but also the maintenance of the SH hydroosmotic response is dependent on AC activity and does not differ in this respect to the ADH hydroosmotic response. The effect of modifying extracellular Cl−concentration, suggests that this anion, possibly functionally linked with Na+/H+activity, may be involved in invoking the SH hydroosmotic response in anuran urinary bladder.

Modeling tight junction dynamics and oscillations

Tight junction (TJ) permeability responds to changes of extracellular Ca(2+) concentration. This can be gauged through changes of the transepithelial electrical conductance (G) determined in the absence of apical Na(+). The early events of TJ dynamics were evaluated by the fast Ca(2+) switch assay (FCSA) (Lacaz-Vieira, 2000), which consists of opening the TJs by removing basal calcium (Ca(2+)(bl)) and closing by returning Ca(2+)(bl) to normal values. Oscillations of TJ permeability were observed when Ca(2+)(bl) is removed in the presence of apical calcium (Ca(2+)(ap)) and were interpreted as resulting from oscillations of a feedback control loop which involves: (a) a sensor (the Ca(2+) binding sites of zonula adhaerens), (b) a control unit (the cell signaling machinery), and (c) an effector (the TJs). A mathematical model to explain the dynamical behavior of the TJs and oscillations was developed. The extracellular route (ER), which comprises the paracellular space in series with the submucosal interstitial fluid, was modeled as a continuous aqueous medium having the TJ as a controlled barrier located at its apical end. The ER was approximated as a linear array of cells. The most apical cell is separated from the apical solution by the TJ and this cell bears the Ca(2+) binding sites of zonula adhaerens that control the TJs. According to the model, the control unit receives information from the Ca(2+) binding sites and delivers a signal that regulates the TJ barrier. Ca(2+) moves along the ER according to one-dimensional diffusion following Fick's second law. Across the TJ, Ca(2+) diffusion follows Fick's first law. Our first approach was to simulate the experimental results in a semiquantitative way. The model tested against experiment results performed in the frog urinary bladder adequately predicts the responses obtained in different experimental conditions, such as: (a) TJ opening and closing in a FCSA, (b) opening by the presence of apical Ca(2+) and attainment of a new steady-state, (c) the escape phase which follows the halt of TJ opening induced by apical Ca(2+), (d) the oscillations of TJ permeability, and (e) the effect of Ca(2+)(ap) concentration on the frequency of oscillations.

Cross-bridge regulation by Ca(2+)-dependent phosphorylation in amphibian smooth muscle

A covalent regulatory mechanism involving Ca(2+)-dependent cross-bridge phosphorylation determines both the number of cycling cross bridges and cycling kinetics in mammalian smooth muscle. Our objective was to determine whether a similar regulatory mechanism governed smooth muscle contraction from a poikilothermic amphibian in a test of the hypothesis that myosin regulatory light chain (MRLC) phosphorylation could modulate shortening velocity. We measured MRLC phosphorylation of Rana catesbiana urinary bladder strips at 25 degrees C in tonic contractions in response to K+ depolarization, field stimulation, or carbachol stimulation. The force-length relationship was characterized by a steep ascending limb and a shallow descending limb. There was a rapid rise in unloaded shortening velocity early in a contraction, which then fell and was maintained at low rates while high force was maintained. In support of the hypothesis, we found a positive correlation of the level of myosin phosphorylation and an estimate of tissue shortening velocity. These results suggest that MRLC phosphorylation in amphibian smooth muscle modulates both the number of attached cross bridges (force) and the cross-bridge cycling kinetics (shortening velocity) as in mammalian smooth muscle.

Effects of cholinergic agents on the vasopressin-mediated water transport in the isolated toad bladder

The aim of this work was to study the effect of some pharmacological cholinergic agents on the events that follow the interaction of arginine vasopressin with toad bladder membrane receptors related to synthesis of 3'5'(c)AMP. The water flow through the membrane was measured gravimetrically in sac preparations of the membrane. In the absence of arginine vasopressin (AVP), carbachol induced a significant increase in the water flow (37%) related to the basal (Ringer's solution). On the other hand, when carbachol and AVP were associated, a significant decrease of AVP hydrosmotic activity occurred (23%). The inhibitory effect of carbachol on the AVP action was almost completely abolished by the cholinergic antagonists atropine, pirenzepine, 4-diphenylacetoxy-N-methylpiperidine methiodide (4-DAMP) and the calcium antagonist lanthanum. Similarly, when carbachol and 3'5' cyclic adenosine monophosphate (3'5'(c)AMP) were associated, a decrease of nucleotide hydrosmotic activity was observed (12.80%). This effect was partially restored by the addition of pirenzepine or 4-DAMP in the bath solution. These results suggest a role for muscarinic receptors of sub-type M(1) and M(3), which are involved in the intracellular calcium release. The increase of calcium concentration in the intracellular medium acts as a negative modulator in the hydrosmotic action of antidiuretic hormone.

Structural correlates of the transepithelial water transport

Transepithelial permeability is one of the fundamental problems in cell biology. Epithelial cell layers protect the organism from its environment and form a selective barrier to the exchange of molecules between the lumen of an organ and an underlying tissue. This chapter discusses some problems and analyzes the participation of intercellular junctions in the paracellular transport of water, migration of intramembrane particles in the apical membrane during its permeability changes for isotonic fluid in cells of leaky epithelia, insertion of water channels into the apical membrane and their cytoplasmic sources in cells of tight epithelia under ADH (antidiuretic hormone)-induced water flows, the osmoregulating function of giant vacuoles in the transcellular fluxes of hypotonic fluid across tight epithelia, and the role of actin filaments and microtubules in the transcellular transport of water across epithelia.

Vasopressin receptor antagonist OPC-31260 prevents cerebral oedema after subarachnoid haemorrhage

The effects of the non-peptide vasopressin V2 receptor antagonist, 5-dimethylamino-1-[4-(2-methylbenzoylamino)benzoyl]-2,3,4,5-tetrah ydro-1 H-benzazepine hydrochloride (OPC-31260) on the cerebral oedema induced by subarachnoid haemorrhage were studied in rats. Subarachnoid haemorrhage induced significant water retention after water loading, increased the brain content of water and Na+ and increased plasma vasopressin levels. The water retention and brain water and Na+ accumulation were prevented by OPC-31260 administration, but the plasma vasopressin levels were further enhanced by OPC-31260. These results demonstrate the important role of vasopressin in the development of antidiuresis and disturbances in brain water and electrolyte balance in response to subarachnoid haemorrhage. The subarachnoid haemorrhage-induced cerebral oedema was significantly reduced following oral OPC-31260 administration. The protective mechanism exerted by OPC-31260 stems from its influence on renal tubular function: it blocks the renal vasopressin V2 receptors. These observations might suggest a new, effective approach to the treatment of subarachnoid haemorrhage-induced cerebral oedema in humans.

The fine structure of the urinary bladder of the toad, Bufo marinus

The urinary bladder of the toad (Bufo marinus) was studied with both the light and the electron microscope. The bladder wall consists of epithelium, submucosa, and serosa. In the epithelium, four different cell types were recognized on the basis of their fine structure and staining properties with several different dyes. These four were designated as granular cells, mitochondria-rich cells, mucous cells, and basal cells. In addition, migratory cells of a different type were found in the basal region of the epithelium. The luminal surface of the epithelial cells presents irregular microvilli and is coated by PAS-positive material which has been further investigated by histochemical procedures and radioautography. Included is a description of the fine structural details of cell membranes, cell junctions, and intracellular components. The submucosa consists of a delicate stroma of fibroblasts and collagen fibers and also contains blood and lymph vessels, unmyelinated nerves, migratory cells, and smooth muscle cells. The serosa consists of a single layer of serosal (mesothelial) cells which form an uninterrupted covering of the viscus. Possible pathways of sodium and water transport across the bladder wall are discussed.

Glomerular permeability. II. Ferritin transfer across the glomerular capillary wall in nephrotic rats

Ferritin was used as a tracer to investigate glomerular permeability in the nephrotic rat. The results were compared with those previously obtained in normal animals. A nephrotic syndrome was induced by 9 daily injections of the aminonucleoside of puromycin. Ferritin was administered intravenously on the 10th day, and kidney tissue was fixed at intervals of 5 minutes to 44 hours after injection of the tracer and examined by electron microscopy. The observations confirmed that at this stage of the experimental nephrotic syndrome the changes affect predominantly the visceral epithelium (loss of foot processes, reduction and modification of urinary slits, and intracellular accumulation of vacuoles and protein absorption droplets). Less extensive changes were found in other layers (reduction of endothelial fenestrae, an increase in the population of "deep" cells, and a thinning and "loosening" of the basement membrane.) At short intervals (5 to 15 minutes) after ferritin administration, the tracer was found at high concentration in the lumen and endothelial fenestrae, and at decreasing concentrations embedded throughout the basement membrane and incorporated into the epithelium (within cytoplasmic vesicles and within invaginations of the plasmalemma facing the basement membrane). After longer intervals (1 to 3 hours) the distribution of the tracer within the capillary wall was similar except that its concentration in the epithelium was higher, and, in addition to plasma membrane invaginations and small vesicles, ferritin also marked larger vacuoles, dense bodies, and intermediate forms. Large accumulations of tracer typically occurred in the spongy areas of the basement membrane, especially in the axial regions. Ferritin also appeared in the endothelium within membrane-limited vacuoles and dense bodies, particularly in the deep cells. After 6 to 44 hours the tracer still occurred in the lumen and throughout the basement membrane. The ferritin deposits in the spongy areas as well as the ferritin-containing vacuoles of the deep endothelium were larger and more numerous. In the epithelium ferritin was found not only within various membrane-limited bodies, but also "free" within the cytoplasmic matrix. These observations indicate that in the nephrotic glomerulus, as in the normal, the basement membrane functions as the main filtration barrier; however, in nephrosis, the basement membrane is defective and allows leakage of increased quantitites of ferritin and presumably plasma proteins. The basement membrane defect appears to be fine and widespread, occurring at or near the molecular level of organization of the filter. The accumulation of unfiltered ferritin in axial regions together with the demonstration of its subsequent phagocytosis by the "deep" endothelial cells suggest that the latter may function in the removal of filtration residues. Finally, the findings indicate that in the nephrotic, as in the normal animal, the epithelium acts as a monitor that recovers, at least in part, the protein which leaks through the filter, and that in nephrosis, the recovering activities of the epithelium are greatly enhanced because of the increased permeability of the basement membrane.

Fine structure of the ciliary epithelium of the rabbit, with particular reference to "infoldedmembranes," "vesicles," and the effects of Diamox

The structure of the ciliary epithelium of the adult albino rabbit has been studied by electron microscopy. Material was fixed in osmium tetroxide and embedded in epoxy resins. Two hitherto unappreciated features of the non-pigmented epithelial layer are described. First, the "infolded plasma membranes" described by previous workers are shown by serial sections to be projections or interdigitations from adjacent cells. Second, the "rows of vesicles" described by previous workers are shown by serial sections to be part of an unusual form of smooth-surfaced tubular endoplasmic reticulum. The tubules are highly convoluted and extensively interconnected. They are arranged in sheets, so that a cross-section through a sheet gives the appearance of a row of vesicles. The other structural features of the ciliary epithelium are also described. Previous workers have reported that Diamox, which inhibits the secretory activity of the epithelium, causes profound structural changes. An effort has been made to confirm these reports under carefully controlled experimental conditions. It was found that secretion could be inhibited by a maximally effective dose of Diamox without the occurrence of any detectable structural changes. The physiological significance of these findings is discussed.

Studies on the movement of water through the isolated toad bladder and its modification by vasopressin

Measurements of diffusion permeability and of net transfer of water have been made across the isolated urinary bladder of the toad, Bufo marinus, and the effects thereon of mammalian neurohypophyseal hormone have been examined. In the absence of a transmembrane osmotic gradient, vasopressin increases the unidirectional flux of water from a mean of 340 to a mean of 570 µl per cm² per hour but the net water movement remains essentially zero. In the presence of an osmotic gradient but without hormone net transfer of water remains very small. On addition of hormone large net fluxes of water occur; the magnitude of which is linearly proportional to the osmotic gradient. The action of the hormone on movement of water is not dependent on the presence of sodium or on active transport of sodium. Comparison of the net transport of water and of unidirectional diffusion permeability of the membrane to water indicates that non-diffusional transport must predominate as the means by which net movement occurs in the presence of an osmotic gradient. An action of the hormone on the mucosal surface of the bladder wall is demonstrated. The effects of the hormone on water movement are most simply explained as an action to increase the permeability and porosity of the mucosal surface of the membrane.

Junctional complexes in various epithelia

The epithelia of a number of glands and cavitary organs of the rat and guinea pig have been surveyed, and in all cases investigated, a characteristic tripartite junctional complex has been found between adjacent cells. Although the complex differs in precise arrangement from one organ to another, it has been regularly encountered in the mucosal epithelia of the stomach, intestine, gall bladder, uterus, and oviduct; in the glandular epithelia of the liver, pancreas, parotid, stomach, and thyroid; in the epithelia of pancreatic, hepatic, and salivary ducts; and finally, between the epithelial cells of the nephron (proximal and distal convolution, collecting ducts). The elements of the complex, identified as zonula occludens (tight junction), zonula adhaerens (intermediary junction), and macula adhaerens (desmosome), occupy a juxtaluminal position and succeed each other in the order given in an apical-basal direction. The zonula occludens (tight junction) is characterized by fusion of the adjacent cell membranes resulting in obliteration of the intercellular space over variable distances. Within the obliterated zone, the dense outer leaflets of the adjoining cell membranes converge to form a single intermediate line. A diffuse band of dense cytoplasmic material is often associated with this junction, but its development varies from one epithelium to another. The zonula adhaerens (intermediate junction) is characterized by the presence of an intercellular space ( approximately 200 A) occupied by homogeneous, apparently amorphous material of low density; by strict parallelism of the adjoining cell membranes over distances of 0.2 to 0.5 micro; and by conspicuous bands of dense material located in the subjacent cytoplasmic matrix. The desmosome or macula adhaerens is also characterized by the presence of an intercellular space ( approximately 240 A) which, in this case, contains a central disc of dense material; by discrete cytoplasmic plaques disposed parallel to the inner leaflet of each cell membrane; and by the presence of bundles of cytoplasmic fibrils converging on the plaques. The zonula occludens appears to form a continuous belt-like attachment, whereas the desmosome is a discontinuous, button-like structure. The zomula adhaerens is continuous in most epithelia but discontinuous in some. Observations made during experimental hemoglobinuria in rats showed that the hemoglobin, which undergoes enough concentration in the nephron lumina to act as an electron-opaque mass tracer, does not penetrate the intercellular spaces beyond the zonula occludens. Similar observations were made in pancreatic acini and ducts where discharged zymogen served as a mass tracer. Hence the tight junction is impervious to concentrated protein solutions and appears to function as a diffusion barrier or "seal." The desmosome and probably also the zonula adhaerens may represent intercellular attachment devices.

The fine structure of the gastric mucosa in the bat

A description of the cytology of the gastric mucosa is presented based upon an electron microscopic investigation of the bat stomach. The fine structure of the various cell types in this species is fundamentally similar to that of the corresponding cell types of other mammals, but the relative cell numbers and distribution are somewhat different. (a). The surface mucous cells are identified by their superficial location and by the character of their dense secretory granules. (b). The mucous neck cells are distinguished by a characteristically different appearance and distribution of their mucous granules, and by their varied shape and their location between parietal cells. (c). The parietal cells are very large and have unusually prominent secretory canaliculi and an extraordinary number of large mitochondria. (d). The chief cells are found at the base of the gastric glands and are similar in their fine structure to other zymogenic cells. They contain many large zymogen granules and have an extensively developed granular endoplasmic reticulum. The latter is sometimes aggregated in unusual, hexagonally packed straight tubules, each with twelve longitudinal rows of ribosomes uniformly spaced around its circumference and with the rows of ribosomes in precise register with those of adjoining tubules. (e). Argentaffin cells lodged between other cell types vary sufficiently in the structure of their mitochondria and the character of their specific granules to suggest that they are of more than one kind. The majority are at the base of the epithelium but some extend to the lumen and bear microvilli on their free surface.

The fine structure of the basement membrane in epidermal tumors

Epidermal tumors were induced in Swiss female mice by a topical application of 9,10-dimethyl-1,2-benzanthracene solution followed by repeated applications of croton oil solutions. Fourteen benign and malignant tumors were sampled 25 weeks after the treatment had begun, fixed in osmium tetroxide or potassium permanganate, and embedded in Epon. Sections stained with lead hydroxide were examined. In three tumors defects of the epidermal basement membrane were seen. These defects accompanied local invasion of the tumors. The possible mechanisms of the development of this unusual anatomical situation are discussed.

THE EFFECT OF MUCOSAL AND SEROSAL SOLUTION CATIONS ON BIOELECTRIC PROPERTIES OF THE ISOLATED TOAD BLADDER

The spontaneous transtissue potential and the DC conductance of the isolated toad bladder were measured when the tissue was exposed to sulfate Ringer's solutions of modified ionic composition. Na(+) was replaced to varying extents by (C(2)H(5))(3)NH(+), (C(2)H(5))(4)N(+), Li(+), Cs(+), K(+), or Rb(+). Reversible and irreversible changes were observed. The reversible changes were consistent with equations derived from the Nernst-Planck diffusion equation, and gave the following functional description of the bladder: (a) the potential measurements were compatible with two membranes in series; (b) the mucosal surface was more permeable to Na(+) than to other monovalent cations; (c) the serosal surface was permeable to both K(+) and Na(+) but preferentially to K(+); (d) the rate of Na(+) diffusion across the mucosal membrane appeared to approach a maximum but two alternative interpretations are discussed; (e) the conductance data were consistent with the assumption of a constant concentration gradient for the penetrating ions within the membrane (Henderson's assumption) provided suitable hypotheses are made concerning the Na(+) distribution between the membrane surfaces and the bulk phases of the adjacent solutions; (f) the conductance and spontaneous potential data suggested that the mucosal membranes of a small fraction of the epithelial cells were more permeable than the mucosal membranes of the majority of these cells. The irreversible changes were almost entirely associated with cation substitution in the serosal solution. However, Li(+) produced an irreversible fall in voltage when added to either side of the tissue.

EFFECTS OF CALCIUM DEPLETION ON THE JUNCTIONAL COMPLEX BETWEEN OXYNTIC CELLS OF GASTRIC GLANDS

In order to ascertain the role of calcium in maintaining the structure of the junctional complex between oxyntic cells, control gastric mucosae of the frog Rana pipiens were compared with those exposed to 1 to 4 mM ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Changes in transmucosal potential difference and mucosal conductance were monitored. In one case a piece of EDTA-treated mucosa was washed and placed in a Ca⁺⁺-containing solution. Material from all three categories was prepared for electron microscopy (glutaraldehyde and OsO₄ fixation with Epon 812 embedding). Electron micrographs showed that after Ca⁺⁺ depletion the intercellular electron-opaque material of the desmosome disappears and the walls of this component separate. Similar changes were observed in the zonula adhaerens. Consistent changes were difficult to detect in the zonula occludens although in some instances disorganization or separation within the tight junction was seen. These effects on the components of the junctional complex were reversible on readministration of Ca⁺⁺. The results indicate that Ca⁺⁺ is important in maintaining the integrity of the junctional complex. A model correlating the fine structural changes with physiological data is presented.

ELECTRON MICROSCOPIC OBSERVATIONS ON THE ACCUMULATION OF DIVALENT CATIONS IN INTRAMITOCHONDRIAL GRANULES

Electron microscopic evidence is presented, from mitochondria in whole cells of toad urinary bladder and from isolated rat kidney mitochondria, indicating that the divalent cations calcium, strontium, and barium are accumulated in granules localized in the mitochondrial matrix. This accumulation occurs under conditions in which divalent ions are present in the medium bathing either whole cells or isolated mitochondria. The evidence indicates that the divalent ions are deposited on, or in a pre-existing granule, possibly in exchange for other ions. It suggests a possible role of the intramitochondrial granules in the regulation of the internal ionic environment of the mitochondrion. Certain biochemical and physiological implications of this phenomenon are discussed.

ELECTRON MICROSCOPY OF ABSORPTION OF TRACER MATERIALS BY TOAD URINARY BLADDER EPITHELIUM

The absorption of Thorotrast and saccharated iron oxide by the epithelium of the toad urinary bladder was studied by electron microscopy. Whether the toads were hydrated, dehydrated, or given Pitressin, no significant differences in transport of colloidal particles by epithelial cells were observed. This implies that these physiological factors had little effect on the transport of the tracer particles. Tracer particles were encountered in three types of epithelial cells which line the bladder lumen, but most frequently in the mitochondria-rich cells. Tracer materials were incorporated into the cytoplasm of epithelial cells after being adsorbed to the coating layer covering the luminal surface of the cells. In the intermediate stage (1 to 3 hours after introducing tracer) particles were present in small vesicles, tubules, and multivesicular bodies. In the later stages (up to 65 hours), the particles were more commonly seen to be densely packed within large membrane-bounded bodies which were often found near the Golgi region. These large bodies probably were formed by the fusion of small vesicles. Irrespective of the stages of absorption, no particles were found in the intercellular spaces or in the submucosa. Particles apparently did not penetrate the intercellular spaces of the epithelium beyond the level of the tight junction.

THE FINE STRUCTURE OF EPENDYMA IN THE BRAIN OF THE RAT

The ciliated ependyma of the rat brain consists of a sheet of epithelial cells, the luminal surface of which is reflected over ciliary shafts and numerous evaginations of irregular dimensions. The relatively straight lateral portions of the plasmalemma of contiguous cells are fused at discrete sites to form five-layered junctions or zonulae occludentes which obliterate the intercellular space. These fusions occur usually at some distance below the free surface either independently or in continuity with a second intercellular junction, the zonula adhaerens. The luminal junction is usually formed by a zonula adhaerens or, occasionally, by a zonula occludens. The finely granular and filamentous cytoplasm contains supranuclear dense bodies, some of which are probably lysosomes and dense whorls of perinuclear filaments which send fascicles toward the lateral plasmalemma. The apical regions of the cytoplasm contain the basal body complexes of neighboring cilia. These complexes include a striated basal foot and short, non-striated rootlets emanating from the wall of each basal body. The rootlets end in a zone of granules about the proximal region of the basal body, adjacent to which may lie a striated mass of variable shape. All components of the basal body complex of adjacent cilia are independent of each other.

STUDIES ON AN EPITHELIAL (GLAND) CELL JUNCTION. I. MODIFICATIONS OF SURFACE MEMBRANE PERMEABILITY

Membrane permeability of an epithelial cell junction (Drosophila salivary gland) was examined with intracellular microelectrodes and with fluorescent tracers. In contrast to the non-junctional cell membrane surface, which has a low permeability to ions (10^-4 mho/cm²), the junctional membrane surface is highly permeable. In fact, it introduces no substantial restriction to ion flow beyond that in the cytoplasm; the resistance through a chain of cells (150 Ω cm) is only slightly greater than in extruded cytoplasm (100 Ω cm). The diffusion resistance along the intercellular space to the exterior, on the other hand, is very high. Here, there exists an ion barrier of, at least, 10⁴Ω cm². As a result, small ions and fluorescein move rather freely from one cell to the next, but do not leak appreciably through the intercellular space to the exterior. The organ here, rather than the single cell, appears to be the unit of ion environment. The possible underlying structural aspects are discussed.

Cerebral oedema after subarachnoid haemorrhage. Pathogenetic significance of vasopressin

The authors report the frequency, characteristic clinical symptoms, laboratory alterations and diagnostic criteria of the syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) after subarachnoid haemorrhage. The data on 290 patients with subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) during a period of years at the Division of Neurosurgery, University Medical School, Szeged, are analysed. Twenty-seven (9.3%) patients developed SIADH. Thirteen (4.5%) patients had severe and 14 (4.8%) had mild SIADH. The problems of the treatment are discussed in detail and the different therapeutic methods are listed: NaCl infusion, water withdrawal and administration of Dilantin, diuretics, mineralocorticosteroids, lithium and demeclocycline. The undesirable side-effects observed accompanying various therapeutic regimen are analysed. The introduction of V2 antagonists into clinical practice appears to be a most perspective procedure. For study of the pathogenesis of SIADH following SAH, the possibility of treatment with V2 antagonists on an experimental model of SAH in rat was created. A significant water retention and increases in brain water and sodium content were observed in rats with SAH. Plasma AVP levels were also elevated after SAH. AVP plays an important role in the development of antidiuresis following water loading and disturbance of the brain water and electrolyte balance after SAH. Water retention and the higher brain water and sodium accumulation could be totally prevented by administration of a V2 antagonist. These results demonstrate that cerebral oedema generated by artificial cerebral bleeding in rats is significantly reduced following the administration of a highly specific V2 antagonist, suggesting a new approach to the treatment of SIADH.

[Light- and electron-microscopic studies of the structure of normal bladder epithelium in female swine]

A light- and electron-microscope investigation was performed to examine the normal structure of the porcine urinary bladder. Tissue biopsies were studied obtained from 10 healthy female pigs (four weanling pigs, six sows). The bladder wall showed a typical stratification consisting of a tunica (t.) mucosae, t. submucosae, t. muscularis and t. serosa. The mucosa consisted of an epithelium transitionale, a lamina propria, and a lamina muscularis mucosae. The urothelium was composed of a basal layer, one or more intermediate layer(s), and a superficial layer. The urothelial cells of all layers were connected by desmosomes, while tight junctions linked adjacent superficial cells. Surface cells were lined by a layer of mucus, which is believed to provide an important barrier against bacterial infection. The surface of the superficial cells was also characterized by numerous irregularly arranged microplicae. By contrast, intermediate cells, which are assumed to be immature cell forms, showed microvilli-like structures. When desquamation of superficial cells takes place, differentiation of underlying intermediate cells is accompanied by merging of microvilli to form microplicae. The morphology of the bladder surface structures may play an important role in the ability of bacteria to adhere to the urothelium.

Effects of potassium-free media and ouabain on epithelial cell composition in toad urinary bladder studied with X-ray microanalysis

The technique of X-ray microanalysis was used to study the composition of toad urinary bladder epithelial cells incubated in Na Ringer's and K-free medium, with and without ouabain. Following incubation under short-circuit conditions, portions of tissue were coated with an external albumin standard and plunge-frozen. Cryosections were freeze-dried and analyzed. In Na Ringer's, granular and basal cells, and also the basal portion of the goblet cells, had similar water and ion compositions. In contrast, mitochondria-rich cells contained less Cl and Na. On average, the granular cells and a subpopulation of the basal cells lost K and gained Na after ouabain and in K-free medium alone. However, there was considerable variation from cell to cell in the responses, indicating differences between cells in the availabilities of ion pathways, either as a consequence of differences in the numbers of such pathways or in their control. In contrast, the compositions of both the low Cl, mitochondria-rich cells and a sub-population of the basal cells were little affected by the different incubation conditions. This is consistent with a comparatively low Na permeability of these cells. The results also indicate that (i) much, if not all, of the K in the dominant cell type, the granular cells, is potentially exchangeable with serosal medium Na, and (ii) Na is accumulated from the serosal medium under K-free conditions. They also provide information about the role of the (Na-K)-ATPase in the maintenance of cellular K in K-free medium, being consistent with other evidence that removal of serosal medium K inhibits transepithelial Na transport by decreasing Na entry to the cells from the mucosal medium, rather than solely by inhibiting the basolateral membrane (Na-K)-ATPase.

Internalization of fluorescent vasotocin-receptor agonist and antagonist in the toad bladder

This study compares hydrosmotic action, receptor binding, and fluorescent uptake of an agonist, d9phe(flu)AVT, and an antagonist, d4lys(flu)AVT, in the toad bladder. D9phe(flu)AVT increased osmotic water flow across the bladder with a 50% effective dose of 2 nM, whereas d4lys(flu)AVT inhibited water flow with a 50% effective dose of 0.1 microM. D9phe(flu)aVT displaced 10 nM [3H]arginine vasopressin (AVP) from plasma membranes by 50% (IC50) with 10 nM, whereas d4lys(flu)AVT had an IC50 of 3 microM. The fluorescent agonist induced a persistent increase in membrane permeability to water after removal from the serosal bathing solution. This residual response was diminished by preincubation with an agonist (AVP), but not with an antagonist [d4lys(N3)AVT]. The agonist, d9phe(flu)AVT, was internalized into toad bladder epithelial cells, as seen by epifluorescence microscopy, and this uptake was blocked by d4lys(N3)AVT. The antagonist, by contrast, was not internalized but remained at the cell surface. After stimulation with forskolin, however, the fluorescent antagonist was also internalized. These experiments suggest that agonists, but not antagonists, form functional complexes with receptors that, via formation of cAMP, trigger not only an increase in membrane permeability to water but also facilitate the clearance of hormone from the cell surface by endocytic uptake.

Transient electrical phenomenon of the voltage-clamped toad urinary bladder

1. The effects of changes in voltage on the transepithelial current through the toad urinary bladder have been studied using Ussing chambers. 2. Step changes in voltage produced two transient currents of duration seconds and minutes respectively. 3. Amiloride, which was used to block all active transport, also eliminated the transient nature of the current responses, indicating that the phenomena were cellular in origin. In the presence of amiloride, amphotericin B regenerated the short-circuit current and the transient behaviour. 4. The effects of substituting gluconate for Cl- in the medium were examined. Similar transient responses were observed, indicating that they were not due to changes in a plasma membrane Cl- conductance. 5. The shape and magnitude of the first current transient changed with (i) changes in the mucosal Na+ concentration, (ii) the magnitude of the transepithelial voltage step, (iii) the addition of antidiuretic hormone, (iv) changes in the serosal K+ concentration, or (v) the addition of ouabain. 6. The second current transient was similarly affected by such challenges. 7. In some bladders the voltage step produced current oscillations similar to those obtained after the epithelium had been challenged with a serosal osmotic step (Gordon, 1988). 8. The results suggest that two major processes are initiated by a transepithelial voltage step. The first involves a change in the K+ conductance of the basolateral membrane and the second is associated with the alteration of cellular ion content and Na+ pump rate.

Ultrastructural and ultracytochemical studies on the blood-brain barrier in chronic relapsing experimental allergic encephalomyelitis

We induced chronic relapsing experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE), and studied the ultrastructural and ultracytochemical changes of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in the demyelinating lesions of various stages of EAE. In the chronic, inactive stage with gliosis and perivascular fibrosis, the basal lamina (BL) of the perivascular processes of astrocytes was formed only partially, and neural parenchyma was not fully separated from the perivascular mesenchymal tissues by the BL of astrocytic processes. Vascular permeability of the BBB was studied using exogenous horseradish peroxidase (HRP) as the tracer: HRP extravasation was marked during the stages of both active myelin breakdown and removal of debris, and was recognized even at the inactive stage, although the degree was reduced to a very low level. The functions of the endothelia, assessed by ouabain-sensitive, K+-dependent p-nitrophenylphosphatase activity, were impaired as EAE progressed. The decrease in HRP leakage at the inactive stage suggests the endothelial impairment of active transport of metabolites including HRP. Along with the development of inflammatory demyelination in EAE, the BBB in affected areas became more and more altered, and gradual morphological and functional impairment of the BBB developed.

Kidney of the great Indian rhino Rhinoceros unicornis, Linnaeus

The kidney of R. unicornis has almost 80 closely apposed lobes, all appearing peripherally. Every lobe, almost enclosed by a collagenous septum, resembles a deformed truncated cone. The pelvis proper is a small pouch which divides into a cephalic and a caudal urothelial-lined fibromuscular conduit. The terminal collecting ducts of every lobe open into a tubus maximus. This is lined by cuboidal cells and otherwise has no wall. There is no papilla. All lobes finally empty through the 18 primary infundibular orifices at the pelvic conduits. A primary fibromuscular infundibulum typically yields a secondary one supplying an adjacent lobe. Two or three lobes can use a common tubus maximus by "convergence" of their medullae. Tubus maximus, terminal collecting ducts and deep outer medulla are embraced by a fibromuscular calyx which is the peripheral extension of an infundibulum and is fused to the outer medulla. There is thus no vault between medulla and calyx. Large intralobar veins are fused to the outer wall of the calyx. The possible significance of this is discussed. The cortex is the only part of a lobe which has contact with infundibulum, pelvic conduits, or pelvis proper. The kidney has about 16 million glomeruli which form 5.8% of the adult's cortical mass. Many adult mammals, from mouse to rhinoceros, fit into the log10-log10 slope relating number of glomeruli per kidney to body-mass. Neonatal rhinos at term have mature glomeruli throughout the cortex. The small size of the glomeruli and the large number per field allow 16 million in an 118-gm kidney.

Osmotic reversal induces assembly of tight junction strands at the basal pole of toad bladder epithelial cells but does not reverse cell polarity

This paper reports the effect of reversing the osmotic environment between luminal and serosal compartments of a toad urinary bladder on the polarity of assembly of tight junction strands. Toad bladders were filled with Ringer's solution (220 mOsm) and were immersed in distilled water at room temperature or at 37 degrees C. Within two minutes, new tight junction strands are assembled. The new tight junctional strands unite the basal pole of epithelial cells with the apical side of basal cells. Physiological studies show that oxytocin, a synthetic analog of antidiuretic hormone, is still capable of inducing increases in water transport in epithelia which were osmotically reversed. This capacity decreases significantly for longer periods of osmotic reversal. Osmotic reversal does not alter the original polarity of epithelial cells: the apical tight junction belt, at the apical pole, is not displaced; the freeze-fracture morphology typical of apical plasma membrane (particle-rich E faces; particle-poor P faces) is not altered; oxytocin and cyclic AMP induce aggregates which are observed only at the apical plasma membrane. Massive assembly of junctional elements occurs even in epithelia preincubated in the presence of cycloheximide (an inhibitor of protein synthesis) or of cytoskeleton perturbers. Our experiments show that the polarity of assembly of tight junction strands depends on the vectorial orientation of the osmotic environment of the epithelium.

Histochemical and elemental localization of calcium in the granular cell subapical granules of the amphibian urinary bladder epithelium

The ultrahistochemical analysis of apical granules in the epithelial cells, i.e., granular cells, of the amphibian urinary bladder using the N,N-naphthaloylhydroxylamine procedure identified the presence of calcium in these structures. Subsequent analytical microscopy employing fresh-frozen ultrathin cryosections for X-ray microanalysis of the granules further confirmed the above histochemical findings. In addition to calcium, elemental analysis indicated the presence of magnesium, phosphorus, sulfur, silicon, potassium, and chlorine either within or in close proximity to the granules. The possibility that these granules function as subcellular compartments for the uptake and storage of calcium ions, in a way similar to mitochondria, and thus function in intracellular calcium homeostasis, is discussed. Additionally, a role for this cation in the secretion of granular glycoproteins, i.e., stimulus-secretion coupling, is hypothesized.

Intracellular solute gradients during osmotic water flow: an electron-microprobe analysis

In an attempt to quantify possible intracellular water activity gradients during ADH-induced osmotic water flow, we employed energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis to thin, freeze-dried cryosections obtained from fresh, shock-frozen tissue of the toad urinary bladder. The sum of all detectable small ions (Na + K + Cl) in the cellular water space was taken as an index of the intracellular osmolarity. Presuming that all ions are osmotically active, they comprise about 90% of the cellular solutes. When the cells were exposed to dilute serosal medium, the reduction in the sum of the ions agreed well with the expected reduction in osmolarity. After inducing water flow by addition of ADH and dilution of the mucosal medium, all epithelial cells showed a fall in osmolarity. The change was more pronounced in granular cells than in basal or mitochondria-rich cells, consistent with the notion that granular cells represent the main transport pathway. Most significantly, intracellular osmolarity gradients, largely caused by an uneven distribution of K and Na, were detectable in granular cells. The gradients were not observed after ADH or mucosal dilution alone, or when the direction of transepithelial water flow was reversed. We conclude from these results that there is a significant cytoplasmic resistance to water flow which may lead to intracellular gradients of water activity. Concentration gradients of diffusible cations can be explained by a flow-induced Donnan-type distribution of fixed negative charges. With regard to transepithelial Na transport, the data suggest that ADH stimulates transport by increasing the Na permeability of the apical membranes of granular cells specifically.

Polycations reduce vasopressin-induced water flow by endocytic removal of water channels

Several polycations added to the luminal solution were found to inhibit the vasopressin (ADH)-induced water flow in toad urinary bladder but not the ADH-induced increase in sodium transport or in urea permeability. Ultrastructural studies were conducted to evaluate the uptake of cationized ferritin. It was found that endocytosis of cationized ferritin by luminal cells was strikingly enhanced on exposure to ADH; this increased endocytosis was concomitant with inhibition of transepithelial ADH-induced water flow. Various maneuvers preventing endocytosis were also found to counteract the polycation-induced inhibition of the ADH effect. It is suggested that polycations are endocytosed in vesicles whose walls contain the water channels but not the urea or sodium channels.