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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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Pawlicki P, Yurdakok-Dikmen B, Tworzydlo W, Kotula-Balak M. Toward understanding the role of the interstitial tissue architects: Possible functions of telocytes in the male gonad. Theriogenology 2024; 217:25-36. [PMID: 38241912 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.01.013] [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: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Telocytes represent a relatively recently discovered population of interstitial cells with a unique morphological structure that distinguishes them from other neighboring cells. Through their long protrusions extending from the cell body, telocytes create microenvironments via tissue compartmentalization and create homo- and hetero-cellular junctions. These establish a three-dimensional network enabling the maintenance of interstitial compartment homeostasis through regulation of extracellular matrix organization and activity, structural support, paracrine and juxtracrine communication, immunomodulation, immune surveillance, cell survival, and apoptosis. The presence of telocytes has also been confirmed in testicular interstitial tissue of many species of animals. The objective of this review is to summarize recent findings on telocytes in the male gonad, on which conclusions have been deduced that indicate the involvement of telocytes in maintaining the cytoarchitecture of the testicular interstitial tissue, in the processes of spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis, and photoperiod-mediated changes in the testes in seasonally reproductive animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Pawlicki
- Center of Experimental and Innovative Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Redzina 1c, 30-248, Krakow, Poland.
| | - Begum Yurdakok-Dikmen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ankara University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara, 06110, Dışkapı, Turkey.
| | - Waclaw Tworzydlo
- Department of Developmental Biology and Invertebrate Morphology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Gronostajowa 9, 30-385, Krakow, Poland.
| | - Malgorzata Kotula-Balak
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Preclinical Sciences, University Centre of Veterinary Medicine JU-UA, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059, Krakow, Poland.
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Shoshkes-Carmel M. Telocytes in the Luminal GI Tract. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 17:697-701. [PMID: 38342300 PMCID: PMC10958115 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2024.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Telocytes are unique mesenchymal cells characterized by multiple remarkably long cytoplasmic extensions that extend hundreds of micron away from the cell body. Through these extensions, telocytes establish a 3-dimensional network by connecting with other telocytes and various cell types within the tissue. In the intestine, telocytes have emerged as an essential component of the stem cell niche, providing Wnt proteins that are critical for the proliferation of stem and progenitor cells. However, the analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing has revealed other stromal populations and mechanisms for niche organization, raising questions about the role of telocytes as a component of the stem cell niche. This review explores the current state-of-the-art, existing controversies, and potential future directions related to telocytes in the luminal gastrointestinal tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Shoshkes-Carmel
- Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, Hebrew University Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel.
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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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Rosa I, Nardini P, Fioretto BS, Guasti D, Romano E, Sgambati E, Marini M, Manetti M. Immunohistochemical and ultrastructural identification of telocytes in the lamina propria of human vaginal mucosa. Acta Histochem 2023; 125:152094. [PMID: 37757515 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2023.152094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Since their relatively recent discovery, telocytes (TCs) have been described as peculiar cells strategically positioned in the stromal tissue component of multiple organ systems of the mammalian body including female reproductive organs (i.e., ovary, uterine tube, and uterus). Nevertheless, current knowledge of TCs in the vagina is very limited. The present study was therefore undertaken to investigate the existence and characteristics of TCs in the stromal tissue of human vaginal mucosa by means of immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence confocal microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. In the vaginal lamina propria, TCs were first identified by CD34 immunohistochemistry that revealed the presence of CD34+ stromal cells arranged in networks, especially around blood vessels. Double immunofluorescence confocal microscopy allowed to precisely distinguish the perivascular networks of CD34+ stromal cells lacking CD31 immunoreactivity from adjacent CD31+ microvessels. All the perivascular networks of TCs/CD34+ stromal cells situated in the vaginal lamina propria coexpressed platelet-derived growth factor receptor α, which strengthened their identification as TCs. Instead, vaginal mucosal TCs were immunophenotypically negative for c-kit/CD117. The ultrastructural examination confirmed the presence of TCs, namely stromal cells with characteristic cytoplasmic processes (i.e., telopodes) forming labyrinthine networks around blood vessels and releasing extracellular vesicles. Together, our morphological findings provide the first comprehensive demonstration that TCs reside in the human vaginal lamina propria, thus paving the way for further investigation of their putative functions in vaginal mucosal homeostasis and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Rosa
- Section of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Patrizia Nardini
- Section of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy; Imaging Platform, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Bianca Saveria Fioretto
- Section of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Daniele Guasti
- Section of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy; Imaging Platform, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Eloisa Romano
- Section of Internal Medicine, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Eleonora Sgambati
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche, Isernia, Italy
| | - Mirca Marini
- Section of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Section of Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy; Imaging Platform, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy.
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Gulinac M, Velikova T, Dikov D. Multinucleated giant cells of bladder mucosa are modified telocytes: Diagnostic and immunohistochemistry algorithm and relation to PD-L1 expression score. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:6091-6104. [PMID: 37731584 PMCID: PMC10507540 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i26.6091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multinucleated giant cells (MGCs) in bladder carcinomas are poorly studied. AIM To describe the function, morphogenesis, and origin of mononuclear and MGCs in urothelial carcinoma (UC) of the bladder in Bulgarian and French patients. METHODS Urothelial bladder carcinomas (n = 104) from 2016-2020 were analyzed retrospectively using immunohistochemical (IHC) and histochemical stain examination. Giant cells in the bladder stroma were found in 35.6% of cases, more often in high-grades. RESULTS We confirm that MGCs in the mucosa in UC of the bladder were positive for both mesenchymal and myofibroblast markers (vimentin, smooth muscle actin, Desmin, and CD34) and the macrophage marker CD68. Furthermore, IHC studies revealed the following profile of these cells: Positive for p16; negative for epithelial (CK AE1/AE3 and GATA-3), vascular (CD31), neural (PS100 and C-KIT), cambial, blastic (CD34-blasts and C-KIT), and immune markers (IG G, immunoglobulin G4, and PD-L1); no proliferative activity, possess no specific immune function, and cannot be used to calculate the Combined Positive Score scale. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the giant stromal cells in non-tumor and tumor bladder can be used as a characteristic and relatively constant, although nonspecific, histological marker for chronic bladder damage, reflecting the chronic irritation or inflammation. Likewise, according to the morphological and IHC of the mono- and multinucleated giant cells in the bladder, they are most likely represent telocytes capable of adapting their morphology to the pathology of the organ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Gulinac
- General and Clinical Pathology, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv 4002, Bulgaria
- Medical Faculty, Sofia University, St. Kliment Ohridski, Sofia 1407, Bulgaria
| | - Tsvetelina Velikova
- Medical Faculty, Sofia University, St. Kliment Ohridski, Sofia 1407, Bulgaria
| | - Dorian Dikov
- Pathology, Grand Hospital de l’Este Francilien, Jossigny 1000, France
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Zhao J, Yang C, Liang B, Gao Y, Luo J, Zheng J, Song B, Shen W, Dong X, Dai S, Yang Z. Single-cell profiling reveals various types of interstitial cells in the bladder. Cell Prolif 2023; 56:e13431. [PMID: 36824020 PMCID: PMC10472517 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Clarifying the locations, molecular markers, functions and roles of bladder interstitial cells is crucial for comprehending the pathophysiology of the bladder. This research utilized human, rat and mouse bladder single-cell sequencing, bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation. The main cell types found in human, rat and mouse bladder tissues include epithelial cells, smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, neurons and various immune cells. Our study identified two significant types of interstitial cells (PTN+ IGFBP6+ PI16 (CD364)+ CD34+ ) and myofibroblasts (STC1+ PLAT+ TNC+ ). These two types of interstitial cells are mainly located in the subepithelial lamina propria, between muscles and between muscle bundles. In the CYP (cyclophosphamide)-induced bladder injury mouse model, the interaction types and signals (MK, MIF, GDF and CXCL) of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts significantly increased compared with the normal group. However, in the aging mouse model, the signals CD34, LAMININ, GALECTIN, MK, SELPLG, ncWNT, HSPG, ICAM and ITGAL-ITGB2 of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts disappeared, but the signals PTN and SEMA3 significantly increased. Our findings identified two crucial types of interstitial cells in bladder tissue, fibroblasts and myofibroblasts, which play a significant role in normal bladder physiology, CYP-induced bladder injury and aging bladder development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang Zhao
- Department of Urology, Second Affiliated HospitalArmy Medical UniversityChongqingPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyArmy Medical UniversityChongqingPeople's Republic of China
| | - Chengfei Yang
- Department of Urology, Second Affiliated HospitalArmy Medical UniversityChongqingPeople's Republic of China
| | - Bo Liang
- Department of UrologyXiangshan First People's Hospital Medical and Health GroupZhejiangPeople's Republic of China
| | - Ye Gao
- Department of Urology, Second Affiliated HospitalArmy Medical UniversityChongqingPeople's Republic of China
| | - Jing Luo
- Department of urologyGeneral Hospital of Xinjiang Military CommandXinjiangPeople's Republic of China
| | - Ji Zheng
- Department of Urology, Second Affiliated HospitalArmy Medical UniversityChongqingPeople's Republic of China
| | - Bo Song
- Department of Urology, Southwest HospitalArmy Medical UniversityChongqingPeople's Republic of China
| | - Wenhao Shen
- Department of Urology, Southwest HospitalArmy Medical UniversityChongqingPeople's Republic of China
| | - Xingyou Dong
- Department of UrologyPeople's Hospital of Shapingba DistrictChongqingPeople's Republic of China
| | - ShuangShuang Dai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyArmy Medical UniversityChongqingPeople's Republic of China
| | - Zhenxing Yang
- Department of Urology, Second Affiliated HospitalArmy Medical UniversityChongqingPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Irradiation Biology LaboratoryArmy Medical UniversityChongqingPeople's Republic of China
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Wishahi M, Hassan S, Hassan M, Badawy M, Hafiz E. Telocytes and ezrin expression in normal-appearing tissues adjacent to urothelial bladder carcinoma as predictors of invasiveness and recurrence. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6179. [PMID: 37061568 PMCID: PMC10105776 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33282-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Recurrence and progression rates vary widely among different histological subtypes of bladder cancer (BC). Normal-appearing mucosa in non-muscle invasive bladder cancer and muscle-invasive bladder cancer in cystoscopy and histopathology is a factor in staging and treatment. Telocytes (TCs) are spindle-shaped cells that connect with other cell types allowing communication though cytoskeletal signaling. They are involved in tissue regeneration and pathogenesis of diseases and cancer. In this study, 12 normal-appearing tissues from urinary bladder with BC, both invasive and non-invasive were evaluated in patients who had either trans-urethral resection of bladder tumor or cystectomy. In each case, cystoscopy, intraoperative inspection, and histopathology all confirmed the absence of cancerous elements. Five patients with neurogenic bladder were used as a control group. Immunohistochemistry revealed that c-Kit + cells were intensively distributed in bladder layers from BC samples, while they were seldom detected in the control group. Ultrastructural examination of reprocessed tissue showed an intense distribution of TCs and telopodes in the submucosa and between smooth muscle cells in BC. Telopodes were numerous, arborizing, and intercommunicating. Whereas TCs and telopodes were scarce in the neurogenic bladder. Also, cancerous tissue had the highest expression level of ezrin protein, and this level gradually decreased as we moved away from the tumor. Our finding of TCs number in normal-appearing tissues in conjunction with ezrin expression may compete invasiveness and possibly a trail to reduce recurrence rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Wishahi
- Department of Urology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Kornaish El Nile, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, P.O. 30, Giza, 12411, Egypt.
| | - Sarah Hassan
- Department of Electron Microscopy, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Kornaish El Nile, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, P.O. 30, Giza, 12411, Egypt
| | - Marwa Hassan
- Immunology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Badawy
- Department of Urology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Kornaish El Nile, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, P.O. 30, Giza, 12411, Egypt
| | - Ehab Hafiz
- Department of Electron Microscopy, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Kornaish El Nile, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, P.O. 30, Giza, 12411, Egypt.
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Etcharren V, Mouguelar H, Aguilar Valenciano JJ. Identification of telocytes in the oviduct of the mare. Theriogenology 2023; 205:18-26. [PMID: 37084500 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
Telocytes (TCs), a recently discovered special type of stromal cells, have been identified in many organs of many species, including the female and male reproductive system, with proposed multiple potential bio-functions such as homeostasis, immunomodulation, tissue remodeling and regeneration, embryogenesis, angiogenesis and even tumorigenesis. The aim of this study was to investigate the existence, and characteristics of telocytes in normal equine oviduct. To identify them, we used routine light microscopy, non-conventional light microscopy (NCLM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and immunohistochemistry. We found that telocytes of the equine oviduct can be recognized in fixed specimens by light microscopy (methylene blue staining), with more details on Epon semi-thin sections (toluidine blue staining) by NCLM, and that they showed positive immunostaining for CD34. The telocytes, with their typical long and moniliform prolongations, formed networks in the stromal space of the submucosa, muscular and serosa layers, particularly in the lamina propia where they were observed in greater quantity. By TEM we have also confirmed the presence of cells ultrastructurally identifiable as telocytes (cells with telopodes alternating podomers and podoms) in the aforementioned locations. Direct intercellular contacts between epithelial cells and neighboring telocytes were evidenced. EIn conclusion, we demonstrated that telocytes are present in the equine oviduct as previously reported in other species. The potential implication of telocytes in multiple potential functions of physiological and pathological processes deserves further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Etcharren
- Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Agronomía y Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional de Rio Cuarto, Argentina
| | - H Mouguelar
- Departamento de Anatomía, Facultad de Agronomía y Veterinaria, National University of Río Cuarto, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - J J Aguilar Valenciano
- Departamento de Producción Animal, Facultad de Agronomía y Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional de Rio Cuarto, Argentina.
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Ahmed AM, Hussein MR. Telocytes in Cutaneous Biology: A Reappraisal. ACTAS DERMO-SIFILIOGRAFICAS 2023; 114:T229-T239. [PMID: 36690154 DOI: 10.1016/j.ad.2022.08.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The telocytes (TCs) are novel interstitial cells that have been overlooked for a long time due to their histologic similarity to other stromal cells. TCs can be separated from the stromal cells based on their distinct immunohistochemical, ultrastructural, and molecular features. Functionally, TCs are involved in the tissue renewal, mechanical support, and immune modulation. These cells are also involved in the signal transduction either through their direct interactions with the neighboring cells or through the paracrine signaling via extracellular vesicles. TCs are damaged in several inflammatory and fibrotic conditions such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, hepatic fibrosis, psoriasis, and systemic sclerosis. The transplantation of TCs in the damaged tissue can promote tissue regeneration. Therefore, enhancing tissue TCs either by their transplantation or by promoting their survival and growth using novel medications represents novel therapeutic strategy in the future. In this review, we addressed several aspects of TCs including their origin, distribution, morphologic features, and functions. We also discussed their involvement of the cutaneous TCs in the development various pathologic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Ahmed
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egipto
| | - M R Hussein
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egipto.
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11
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Telocytes in Cutaneous Biology: A Reappraisal. ACTAS DERMO-SIFILIOGRAFICAS 2023; 114:229-239. [PMID: 36332689 DOI: 10.1016/j.ad.2022.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The telocytes (TCs) are novel interstitial cells that have been overlooked for a long time due to their histologic similarity to other stromal cells. TCs can be separated from the stromal cells based on their distinct immunohistochemical, ultrastructural, and molecular features. Functionally, TCs are involved in the tissue renewal, mechanical support, and immune modulation. These cells are also involved in the signal transduction either through their direct interactions with the neighboring cells or through the paracrine signaling via extracellular vesicles. TCs are damaged in several inflammatory and fibrotic conditions such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, hepatic fibrosis, psoriasis, and systemic sclerosis. The transplantation of TCs in the damaged tissue can promote tissue regeneration. Therefore, enhancing tissue TCs either by their transplantation or by promoting their survival and growth using novel medications represents novel therapeutic strategy in the future. In this review, we addressed several aspects of TCs including their origin, distribution, morphologic features, and functions. We also discussed their involvement of the cutaneous TCs in the development various pathologic conditions.
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12
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Dermal Telocytes: A Different Viewpoint of Skin Repairing and Regeneration. Cells 2022; 11:cells11233903. [PMID: 36497161 PMCID: PMC9736852 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Fifteen years after their discovery, telocytes (TCs) are yet perceived as a new stromal cell type. Their presence was initially documented peri-digestively, and gradually throughout the interstitia of many (non-)cavitary mammalian, human, and avian organs, including skin. Each time, TCs proved to be involved in diverse spatial relations with elements of interstitial (ultra)structure (blood vessels, nerves, immune cells, etc.). To date, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) remained the single main microscopic technique able to correctly and certainly attest TCs by their well-acknowledged (ultra)structure. In skin, dermal TCs reiterate almost all (ultra)structural features ascribed to TCs in other locations, with apparent direct implications in skin physiology and/or pathology. TCs' uneven distribution within skin, mainly located in stem cell niches, suggests involvement in either skin homeostasis or dermatological pathologies. On the other hand, different skin diseases involve different patterns of disruption of TCs' structure and ultrastructure. TCs' cellular cooperation with other interstitial elements, their immunological profile, and their changes during remission of diseases suggest their role(s) in tissue regeneration/repair processes. Thus, expanding the knowledge on dermal TCs could offer new insights into the natural skin capacity of self-repairing. Moreover, it would become attractive to consider that augmenting dermal TCs' presence/density could become an attractive therapeutic alternative for treating various skin defects.
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Lemtiri-Chlieh F, Baker DS, Al-Naggar IM, Ramasamy R, Kuchel GA, Levine ES, Robson P, Smith PP. The hyperpolarization-activated, cyclic nucleotide-gated channel resides on myocytes in mouse bladders and contributes to adrenergic-induced detrusor relaxation. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2022; 323:R110-R122. [PMID: 35503519 PMCID: PMC9236879 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00277.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Control of urinary continence is predicated on sensory signaling about bladder volume. Bladder sensory nerve activity is dependent on tension, implicating autonomic control over detrusor myocyte activity during bladder filling. Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) ion channels are known contributors to bladder control, but their mechanism of action is not well understood. The lack of a definitive identification of cell type(s) expressing HCN in the bladder presents a significant knowledge gap. We recently reported a complete transcriptomic atlas of the C57BL/6 mouse bladder showing the dominant HCN paralog in mouse bladder, Hcn1, is limited to a subpopulation of detrusor smooth myocytes (DSMs). Here, we report details of these findings, along with results of patch-clamp experiments, immunohistochemistry, and functional myobath/tension experiments in bladder strips. With the use of a transgenic mouse expressing fluorescence-tagged α-smooth muscle actin, our data confirmed location and function of DSM HCN channels. Despite previous associations of HCN with postulated bladder interstitial cells, neither evidence of specific interstitial cell types nor an association of nonmyocytes with HCN was discovered. We confirm that HCN activation participates in reducing sustained (tonic) detrusor tension via cAMP, with no effect on intermittent (phasic) detrusor activity. In contrast, blockade of HCN increases phasic activity induced by a protein kinase A (PKA) blocker or a large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (BK) channel opener. Our findings, therefore, suggest a central role for detrusor myocyte HCN in regulating and constraining detrusor myocyte activity during bladder filling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fouad Lemtiri-Chlieh
- 1University of Connecticut Center on Aging, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, Connecticut,5Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Dylan S. Baker
- 1University of Connecticut Center on Aging, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, Connecticut,4Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut,7The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Iman M. Al-Naggar
- 1University of Connecticut Center on Aging, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, Connecticut,6Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Ramalakshmi Ramasamy
- 1University of Connecticut Center on Aging, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, Connecticut,5Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - George A. Kuchel
- 1University of Connecticut Center on Aging, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Eric S. Levine
- 2Connecticut Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut,5Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Paul Robson
- 4Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut,7The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Phillip P. Smith
- 1University of Connecticut Center on Aging, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, Connecticut,2Connecticut Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut,3Department of Surgery, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut
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Hiroshige T, Uemura KI, Hirashima S, Togo A, Ohta K, Nakamura KI, Igawa T. Three-dimensional analysis of interstitial cells in the lamina propria of the murine vas deferens by confocal laser scanning microscopy and FIB/SEM. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9484. [PMID: 35676513 PMCID: PMC9177838 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13245-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to explore the three-dimensional (3D) ultrastructure of interstitial cells (ICs) within the lamina propria of the murine vas deferens and the spatial relationships between epithelial cells and surrounding cells. Focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy were performed. ICs within the lamina propria had a flat, sheet-like structure of cytoplasm with multiple cellular processes. In addition, two types of 3D structures that comprised cell processes of flat, sheet-like ICs were observed: one was an accordion fold-like structure and the other was a rod-shaped structure. ICs were located parallel to the epithelium and were connected to each other via gap junctions or adherens junctions. Moreover, multiple sphere-shaped extracellular vesicle-like structures were frequently observed around the ICs. The ICs formed a complex 3D network comprising sheet-like cytoplasm and multiple cell processes with different 3D structures. From this morphological study, we noted that ICs within the lamina propria of murine vas deferens may be involved in signal transmission between the epithelium and smooth muscle cells by physical interaction and by exchanging extracellular vesicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasuku Hiroshige
- Department of Urology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan.
| | - Kei-Ichiro Uemura
- Department of Urology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Shingo Hirashima
- Division Microscopic and Development Anatomy, Department of Anatomy, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Akinobu Togo
- Advanced Imaging Research Center, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Keisuke Ohta
- Division Microscopic and Development Anatomy, Department of Anatomy, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan.,Advanced Imaging Research Center, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Kei-Ichiro Nakamura
- Cognitive and Molecular Research Institute of Brain Diseases, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Igawa
- Department of Urology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan
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Wei XJ, Chen TQ, Yang XJ. Telocytes in Fibrosis Diseases: From Current Findings to Future Clinical Perspectives. Cell Transplant 2022; 31:9636897221105252. [PMID: 35748420 PMCID: PMC9235300 DOI: 10.1177/09636897221105252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Telocytes (TCs), a distinct type of interstitial (stromal) cells, have been discovered in many organs of human and mammal animals. TCs, which have unique morphological characteristics and abundant paracrine substance, construct a three-dimensional (3D) interstitial network within the stromal compartment by homocellular and heterocellular communications which are important for tissue homeostasis and normal development. Fibrosis-related diseases remain a common but challenging problem in the field of medicine with unclear pathogenesis and limited therapeutic options. Recently, increasing evidences suggest that where TCs are morphologically or numerically destructed, many diseases continuously develop, finally lead to irreversible interstitial fibrosis. It is not difficult to find that TCs are associated with chronic inflammation and fibrosis. This review mainly discusses relationship between TCs and the occurrence of fibrosis in various diseases. We analyzed in detail the potential roles and speculated mechanisms of TCs in onset and progression of systemic fibrosis diseases, as well as providing the most up-to-date research on the current therapeutic roles of TCs and involved related pathways. Only through continuous research and exploration in the future can we uncover its magic veil and provide strategies for treatment of fibrosis-related disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-jiao Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and
Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, P.R.
China
| | - Tian-quan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and
Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, P.R.
China
| | - Xiao-jun Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and
Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, P.R.
China
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16
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López-Cortés R, Vázquez-Estévez S, Fernández JÁ, Núñez C. Proteomics as a Complementary Technique to Characterize Bladder Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13215537. [PMID: 34771699 PMCID: PMC8582709 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Although immunohistochemistry is a routine technique in clinics, and genomics has been rapidly incorporated, proteomics is a step behind. This general situation is also the norm in bladder cancer research. This review shows the contributions of proteomics to the molecular classification of bladder cancer, and to the study of histopathology due to tissue insults caused by tumors. Furthermore, the importance of proteomics for understanding the cellular and molecular changes as a consequence of the therapy of bladder cancer cannot be neglected. Abstract Bladder cancer (BC) is the most common tumor of the urinary tract and is conventionally classified as either non-muscle invasive or muscle invasive. In addition, histological variants exist, as organized by the WHO-2016 classification. However, innovations in next-generation sequencing have led to molecular classifications of BC. These innovations have also allowed for the tracing of major tumorigenic pathways and, therefore, are positioned as strong supporters of precision medicine. In parallel, immunohistochemistry is still the clinical reference to discriminate histological layers and to stage BC. Key contributions have been made to enlarge the panel of protein immunomarkers. Moreover, the analysis of proteins in liquid biopsy has also provided potential markers. Notwithstanding, their clinical adoption is still low, with very few approved tests. In this context, mass spectrometry-based proteomics has remained a step behind; hence, we aimed to develop them in the community. Herein, the authors introduce the epidemiology and the conventional classifications to review the molecular classification of BC, highlighting the contributions of proteomics. Then, the advances in mass spectrometry techniques focusing on maintaining the integrity of the biological structures are presented, a milestone for the emergence of histoproteomics. Within this field, the review then discusses selected proteins for the comprehension of the pathophysiological mechanisms of BC. Finally, because there is still insufficient knowledge, this review considers proteomics as an important source for the development of BC therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubén López-Cortés
- Research Unit, Hospital Universitario Lucus Augusti (HULA), Servizo Galego de Saúde (SERGAS), 27002 Lugo, Spain;
| | - Sergio Vázquez-Estévez
- Oncology Division, Hospital Universitario Lucus Augusti (HULA), Servizo Galego de Saúde (SERGAS), 27002 Lugo, Spain; (S.V.-E.); (J.Á.F.)
| | - Javier Álvarez Fernández
- Oncology Division, Hospital Universitario Lucus Augusti (HULA), Servizo Galego de Saúde (SERGAS), 27002 Lugo, Spain; (S.V.-E.); (J.Á.F.)
| | - Cristina Núñez
- Research Unit, Hospital Universitario Lucus Augusti (HULA), Servizo Galego de Saúde (SERGAS), 27002 Lugo, Spain;
- Correspondence:
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Cardiac Telocytes 16 Years on-What Have We Learned So Far, and How Close Are We to Routine Application of the Knowledge in Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222010942. [PMID: 34681601 PMCID: PMC8535888 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222010942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The regeneration of a diseased heart is one of the principal challenges of modern cardiovascular medicine. There has been ongoing research on stem-cell-based therapeutic approaches. A cell population called telocytes (TCs) described only 16 years ago largely contributed to the research area of cardiovascular regeneration. TCs are cells with small bodies and extremely long cytoplasmic projections called telopodes, described in all layers of the heart wall. Their functions include cell-to-cell signaling, stem-cell nursing, mechanical support, and immunoregulation, to name but a few. The functional derangement or quantitative loss of TCs has been implicated in the pathogenesis of myocardial infarction, heart failure, arrhythmias, and many other conditions. The exact pathomechanisms are still unknown, but the loss of regulative, integrative, and nursing functions of TCs may provide important clues. Therefore, a viable avenue in the future modern management of these conditions is TC-based cell therapy. TCs have been previously transplanted into a mouse model of myocardial infarction with promising results. Tandem transplantation with stem cells may provide additional benefit; however, many underresearched areas need to be addressed in future research before routine application of TC-based cell therapy in human subjects. These include the standardization of protocols for isolation, cultivation, and transplantation, quantitative optimization of TC transplants, cost-effectivity analysis, and many others.
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18
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Sanches BDA, Tamarindo GH, Maldarine JDS, Da Silva ADT, Dos Santos VA, Góes RM, Taboga SR, Carvalho HF. Telocytes of the male urogenital system: Interrelationships, possible functions, and pathological implications. Cell Biol Int 2021; 45:1613-1623. [PMID: 33856089 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The male urogenital system is composed of the reproductive system and the urinary tract; they have an interconnected embryonic development and share one of their anatomical components, the urethra. This system has a highly complex physiology deeply interconnected with the circulatory and nervous systems, as well as being capable of adapting to environmental variations; it also undergoes changes with aging and, in the case of the reproductive system, with seasonality. The stroma is an essential component in this physiological plasticity and its complexity has increased with the description in the last decade of a new cell type, the telocyte. Several studies have demonstrated the presence of telocytes in the organs of the male urogenital system and other systems; however, their exact function is not yet known. The present review addresses current knowledge about telocytes in the urogenital system in terms of their locations, interrelationships, possible functions and pathological implications. It has been found that telocytes in the urogenital system possibly have a leading role in stromal tissue organization/maintenance, in addition to participation in stem cell niches and an association with the immune system, as well as specific functions in the urogenital system, lipid synthesis in the testes, erythropoiesis in the kidneys and the micturition reflex in the bladder. There is also evidence that telocytes are involved in pathologies in the kidneys, urethra, bladder, prostate, and testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Domingos Azevedo Sanches
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Henrique Tamarindo
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Juliana Dos Santos Maldarine
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alana Della Torre Da Silva
- Laboratory of Microscopy and Microanalysis, Department of Biology, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vitória Alário Dos Santos
- Laboratory of Microscopy and Microanalysis, Department of Biology, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rejane Maira Góes
- Laboratory of Microscopy and Microanalysis, Department of Biology, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sebastião Roberto Taboga
- Laboratory of Microscopy and Microanalysis, Department of Biology, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Hernandes F Carvalho
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
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Identification of PDGFRα-positive interstitial cells in the distal segment of the murine vas deferens. Sci Rep 2021; 11:7553. [PMID: 33824385 PMCID: PMC8024294 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-87049-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Platelet-derived growth factor receptor-α (PDGFRα)-positive interstitial cells (ICs) are widely distributed in various organs and may be involved in the motility of various tubular organs. We, for the first time, aimed to investigate the distribution, immunohistochemical characteristics, and ultrastructure of PDGFRα-positive ICs in murine vas deferens, using confocal laser scanning microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and immuno-electron microscopy (immuno-EM). For immunofluorescence, we used antibodies against PDGFRα and other markers of ICs. PDGFRα-positive ICs were distributed widely in the lamina propria, smooth muscles, and serosal layers. Although most PDGFRα-positive ICs labeled CD34, they did not label CD34 in the subepithelial layers. Additionally, PDGFRα-positive ICs were in close proximity to each other, as also to the surrounding cells. TEM and immuno-EM findings revealed that PDGFRα-positive ICs established close physical interactions with adjacent ICs. Extracellular vesicles were also detected around the PDGFRα-positive ICs. Our morphological findings suggest that PDGFRα-positive ICs may have several subpopulations, which can play an important role in intercellular signaling via direct contact with the IC network and the extracellular vesicles in the murine vas deferens. Further investigation on PDGFRα-positive ICs in the vas deferens may lead to understanding the vas deferens mortility.
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Tamura Y, Takata K, Eguchi A, Maeda M, Kataoka Y. Age-related changes in NG2-expressing telocytes of rat stomach. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0249729. [PMID: 33822814 PMCID: PMC8023479 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
NG2 immunoreactive cells (NG2 cells) are found in the brain and peripheral tissues including the skin, intestinal tracts, and bladder. In a previous study, we observed the presence of NG2 cells in the stomach using bioluminescence imaging techniques in NG2-firefly luciferase (fLuc) transgenic (Tg) rats. Here, we aimed to identify and characterize NG2 cells in the adult rat stomach. Immunohistochemical studies showed that NG2 cells were mainly present in the lamina propria and most of the cells were gastric telocytes, co-expressing CD34, and platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRα), with a small oval-shaped cell body and extremely long and thin cellular prolongations. In the rat stomach, NG2-expressing telocytes comprised two subpopulations: NG2+/CD34+/PDGFRα+ and NG2+/CD34+/PDGFRα-. Furthermore, we showed that the expression of NG2 gene in the aged rat stomach decreased relative to that of the young rat stomach and the decline of NG2 expression in aged rats was mainly observed in NG2+/CD34+/PDGFRα+ telocytes. These findings suggested age-related alterations in NG2+/CD34+/PDGFRα+ telocytes of rat stomach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhisa Tamura
- Laboratory for Cellular Function Imaging, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Japan
- Multi-Modal Microstructure Analysis Unit, RIKEN-JEOL Collaboration Center, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Japan
| | - Kumi Takata
- Laboratory for Cellular Function Imaging, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Japan
- Multi-Modal Microstructure Analysis Unit, RIKEN-JEOL Collaboration Center, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Japan
| | - Asami Eguchi
- Laboratory for Cellular Function Imaging, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Japan
- Multi-Modal Microstructure Analysis Unit, RIKEN-JEOL Collaboration Center, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Japan
| | - Mitsuyo Maeda
- Laboratory for Cellular Function Imaging, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Japan
- Multi-Modal Microstructure Analysis Unit, RIKEN-JEOL Collaboration Center, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yosky Kataoka
- Laboratory for Cellular Function Imaging, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Japan
- Multi-Modal Microstructure Analysis Unit, RIKEN-JEOL Collaboration Center, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Japan
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Xu Y, Tian H, Qiao G, Zheng W. Telocytes in the atherosclerotic carotid artery: Immunofluorescence and TEM evidence. Acta Histochem 2021; 123:151681. [PMID: 33493960 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2021.151681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Telocytes, which possess distinct body shapes and long telopodes, are allocated in the vascular wall. As a fundamental cell type, telocytes construct a three-dimensional network to form a support structure for the artery. This study aims to characterize the morphology and ultrastructure of telocytes in atherosclerotic arteries. ApoE gene-deficient mice were selected as the atherosclerosis animal model and fed a high-fat diet for at least 12 weeks, and immunofluorescence assays and transmission electron microscopy techniques were used to observe changes in telocytes in atherosclerotic arteries. By immunofluorescence staining, CD34, CD117 and PDGFR-α were positive compared with negative CD28/vimentin in telocytes in the atherosclerotic carotid artery, and they were distributed in the tunica intima and tunica adventitia. Under transmission electron microscopy, the bodies of telocytes became larger, while telopodes became shorter compared with their normal condition, and a mass of lipidosomes was present during the progression of atherosclerosis. These results demonstrate that immunofluorescence with TEM is the critical method for identifying TCs and that steatosis of TCs is a reason for atherosclerotic artery dysfunction.
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Selviler-Sizer S, Kabak YB, Kabak M. Telocytes in the hearts of Saanen goats. Microsc Res Tech 2020; 84:548-554. [PMID: 33017500 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.23612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Telocytes, new interstitial cells that have received significant attention in recent years, have been detected in many organs, including the heart. The distinction between telocytes and other interstitial cells can only be made based on their ultrastructural characterization and immunophenotypic features. In this study, we examined the interstitial cells in the healthy heart tissues of Saanen goats to determine whether they are telocytes or not, by using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining methods. The SEM revealed oval and round telocytes with two to four telopodes. Some telopodes also had podoms. The staining for immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence methods used for CD34, c-kit (CD117), and vimentin antibodies. Positive cells were detected in the heart muscle and heart valves by immunohistochemical staining. As these antigens can also be expressed by other non-telocyte cells, we used double immunofluorescence staining with CD34/c-kit and CD34/vimentin antibodies to identify true telocytes. Telocytes were determined in the right atrium and aortic valve. While telocytes were CD34+/c-kit+ and CD34+/vimentin+, fibroblasts were CD34-/vimentin+. These results confirm the presence of telocytes in the hearts of Saanen goats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedef Selviler-Sizer
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Yonca Betil Kabak
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Murat Kabak
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
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Díaz-Flores L, Gutiérrez R, García MP, González-Gómez M, Díaz-Flores L, Álvarez-Argüelles H, Luis Carrasco J. Presence/Absence and Specific Location of Resident CD34+ Stromal Cells/Telocytes Condition Stromal Cell Development in Repair and Tumors. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:544845. [PMID: 33072740 PMCID: PMC7530324 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.544845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
CD34+ stromal cells/telocytes (CD34+SCs/TCs) can have a role as mesenchymal precursor cells. Our objective is to assess whether the myofibroblastic stromal cell response in repair and in desmoplastic reactions in tumors depend on the presence or absence of resident CD34+SCs/TCs in specific regions/layers of an organ and on the location of their possible subpopulations. For this purpose, using conventional and immunohistochemical procedures, we studied specimens of (a) acute cholecystitis, with early repair phenomena (n: 6), (b) surgically resected segments of colon tattooed with India ink during previous endoscopic removal of malignant polyps, with macrophage infiltration and stromal cell reaction (n: 8) and (c) infiltrative adenocarcinomas of colon, with desmoplastic reaction (n: 8). The results demonstrated (a) stromal myofibroblastic reaction during repair and tumor desmoplasia in most regions in which resident CD34+SCs/TCs are present, (b) absence of stromal myofibroblastic reaction during repair in the mucosa of both organs in which resident CD34+SCs/TCs are absent and (c) permanence of CD34+SCs/TCs as such, without myofibroblastic response, in smooth muscle fascicles, nerves, and Meissner and Auerbach plexuses, in which the CD34+SCs/TCs mainly undergo reactive phenomena. Therefore, the development of activated αSMA+ myofibroblasts in these conditions requires the presence of resident CD34+SCs/TCs and depends on their location. In conclusion, the facts support the hypotheses that CD34+SCs/TCs participate in the origin of myofibroblasts during repair and tumor stroma formation, and that there is a heterogeneous population of resident CD34+SCs/TCs with different roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucio Díaz-Flores
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Ricardo Gutiérrez
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Ma Pino García
- Department of Pathology, Eurofins® Megalab-Hospiten Hospitals, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Miriam González-Gómez
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Lucio Díaz-Flores
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Hugo Álvarez-Argüelles
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - José Luis Carrasco
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
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Abd-Elhafeez HH, Abou-Elhamd AS, Soliman SA. Morphological and immunohistochemical phenotype of TCs in the intestinal bulb of Grass carp and their potential role in intestinal immunity. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14039. [PMID: 32820212 PMCID: PMC7441181 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70032-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The current study investigated telocytes (TCs) in the intestinal bulb of Grass carp using light microscopy (LM), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy, and immunohistochemistry (IHC). By LM, TCs were distinguished by the typical morphological features that had a cell body and telopodes using HE, toluidine blue, methylene blue, Marsland silver stain, Grimelius's silver nitrate, Giemsa, PAS, combined AB pH2,5/PAS, Crossmon's and Mallory triple trichrome, Van Gieson stains, Verhoeff's stain, Sudan black, osmic acid, performic acid with methylene blue and bromophenol blue. TCs were identified under the epithelium as an individual cell or formed a TCs sheath. They detected in the lamina propria, between muscle fibers, around the myenteric plexus and fibrous tissue. TCs acquired immunological features of endocrine cells that exhibited high affinity for silver stain, performic acid with methylene blue, Marsland stain, and immunohistochemical staining using chromogranin A. Sub epithelial TCs were closely related to the endocrine cells. TCs and their secretory activities were recognized using acridine orange. TCs were identified by IHC using CD34, CD117, S100-protein, desmin. TCs formed a3D network that established contact with macrophage, mast cells, dendritic cells, lymphocytes, smooth muscle fibers, fibroblast, Schwann cells and nerve fibers. In conclusion, the localization of TCs in relation to different types of immune cells indicated their potential role in the maintenance of intestinal immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanan H Abd-Elhafeez
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, 71526, Egypt.
| | - Alaa S Abou-Elhamd
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, 71526, Egypt
| | - Soha A Soliman
- Department of Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, 83523, Egypt
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Mechanosensitivity Is a Characteristic Feature of Cultured Suburothelial Interstitial Cells of the Human Bladder. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21155474. [PMID: 32751838 PMCID: PMC7432121 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Bladder dysfunction is characterized by urgency, frequency (pollakisuria, nocturia), and dysuria and may lead to urinary incontinence. Most of these symptoms can be attributed to disturbed bladder sensitivity. There is growing evidence that, besides the urothelium, suburothelial interstitial cells (suICs) are involved in bladder afferent signal processing. The massive expansion of the bladder during the filling phase implicates mechanical stress delivered to the whole bladder wall. Little is known about the reaction of suICs upon mechanical stress. Therefore, we investigated the effects of mechanical stimulation in cultured human suICs. We used fura-2 calcium imaging as a major physiological readout. We found spontaneous intracellular calcium activity in 75 % of the cultured suICs. Defined local pressure application via a glass micropipette led to local increased calcium activity in all stimulated suICs, spreading over the whole cell. A total of 51% of the neighboring cells in a radius of up to 100 µm from the stimulated cell showed an increased activity. Hypotonic ringer and shear stress also induced calcium transients. We found an 18-times increase in syncytial activity compared to unstimulated controls, resulting in an amplification of the primary calcium signal elicited in single cells by 50%. Our results speak in favor of a high sensitivity of suICs for mechanical stress and support the view of a functional syncytium between suICs, which can amplify and distribute local stimuli. Previous studies of connexin expression in the human bladder suggest that this mechanism could also be relevant in normal and pathological function of the bladder in vivo.
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Vannucchi MG. The Telocytes: Ten Years after Their Introduction in the Scientific Literature. An Update on Their Morphology, Distribution, and Potential Roles in the Gut. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E4478. [PMID: 32599706 PMCID: PMC7352570 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Ten years ago, the term 'telocyte' was introduced in the scientific literature to describe a 'new' cell type described in the connective tissue of several organs by Popescu and Faussone-Pellegrini (2010). Since then, 368 papers containing the term 'telocyte' have been published, 261 of them in the last five years. These numbers underscore the growing interest in this cell type in the scientific community and the general acceptance of the name telocyte to indicate this interstitial cell. Most of these studies, while confirming the importance of transmission electron microscopy to identify the telocytes with certainty, highlight the variability of their immune phenotypes. This variability was interpreted as due to (i) the ability of the telocytes to adapt to the different sites in which they reside; (ii) the distinct functions they are likely to perform; and (iii) the existence of telocyte subtypes. In the present paper, an overview of the last 10 years of literature on telocytes located in the gut will be attempted, confining the revision to the morphological findings. A distinct chapter will be dedicated to the recently hypothesized role of the telocytes the intestinal mucosa. Through this review, it will be shown that telocytes, despite their variability, are a unique interstitial cell.
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Telocytes in the Normal and Pathological Peripheral Nervous System. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124320. [PMID: 32560571 PMCID: PMC7352954 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
We studied telocytes/CD34+ stromal cells in the normal and pathological peripheral nervous system (PNS), for which we reviewed the literature and contributed our observations under light and electron microscopy in this field. We consider the following aspects: (A) general characteristics of telocytes and the terminology used for these cells (e.g., endoneurial stromal cells) in PNS; (B) the presence, characteristics and arrangement of telocytes in the normal PNS, including (i) nerve epi-perineurium and endoneurium (e.g., telopodes extending into the endoneurial space); (ii) sensory nerve endings (e.g., Meissner and Pacinian corpuscles, and neuromuscular spindles); (iii) ganglia; and (iv) the intestinal autonomic nervous system; (C) the telocytes in the pathologic PNS, encompassing (i) hyperplastic neurogenic processes (neurogenic hyperplasia of the appendix and gallbladder), highly demonstrative of telocyte characteristics and relations, (ii) PNS tumours, such as neurofibroma, schwannoma, granular cell tumour and nerve sheath myxoma, and interstitial cell of Cajal-related gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST), (iii) tumour-invaded nerves and (iv) traumatic, metabolic, degenerative or genetic neuropathies, in which there are fewer studies on telocytes, e.g., neuroinflammation and nerves in undescended testicles (cryptorchidism), Klinefelter syndrome, crush injury, mucopolysaccharidosis II (Hunter’s syndrome) and Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease.
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28
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The oral mucosa: Epithelial professional phagocytes, lymphatics, telocytes, and false telocytes. Ann Anat 2020; 229:151462. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2020.151462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Therapeutic Effect of Botulinum Toxin A on Sensory Bladder Disorders-From Bench to Bedside. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12030166. [PMID: 32182780 PMCID: PMC7150911 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12030166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Bladder oversensitivity arises from several different conditions involving the bladder, bladder outlet, systemic or central nervous system diseases. Increase of the bladder sensation results from activation of the sensory receptors in the urothelial cells or suburothelial tissues. Medical treatment targeting the overactive bladder (OAB) or interstitial cystitis (IC) might relieve oversensitive bladder symptoms (frequency, urgency and pain) in a portion of patients, but a certain percentage of patients still need active management. Botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) has been demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects in bladder sensory disorders and has been shown effective in the reduction of bladder oversensitivity and the increase of functional bladder capacity. For patients with OAB, urgency and urinary incontinence improved, while in patients with IC, bladder pain could be relieved in association with reduction of bladder oversensitivity after BoNT-A intravesical injection. Histological evidence has confirmed the therapeutic mechanism and clinical efficacy of intravesical BoNT-A injection on patients with OAB or IC. Bladder oversensitivity can also be relieved with the instillation of liposome encapsulated BoNT-A or low energy show waves (LESWs), which enable the BoNT-A molecule to penetrate into the urothelium and suburothelial space without affecting the detrusor contractility. Liposome encapsulated BoNT-A or combined LESWs and BoNT-A instillation might be future treatment alternatives for bladder oversensitivity in sensory bladder disorders.
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Traini C, Vannucchi MG. The Botulinum Treatment of Neurogenic Detrusor Overactivity: The Double-Face of the Neurotoxin. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:E614. [PMID: 31652991 PMCID: PMC6891665 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11110614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) can counteract the highly frequent involuntary muscle contractions and the uncontrolled micturition events that characterize the neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) due to supra-sacral spinal cord lesions. The ability of the toxin to block the neurotransmitter vesicular release causes the reduction of contractions and improves the compliance of the muscle and the bladder filling. BoNT is the second-choice treatment for NDO once the anti-muscarinic drugs have lost their effects. However, the toxin shows a time-dependent efficacy reduction up to a complete loss of activity. The cellular mechanisms responsible for BoNT effects exhaustion are not yet completely defined. Similarly, also the sites of its action are still under identification. A growing amount of data suggest that BoNT, beyond the effects on the efferent terminals, would act on the sensory system recently described in the bladder mucosa. The specimens from NDO patients no longer responding to BoNT treatment displayed a significant increase of the afferent terminals, likely excitatory, and signs of a chronic neurogenic inflammation in the mucosa. In summary, beyond the undoubted benefits in ameliorating the NDO symptomatology, BoNT treatment might bring to alterations in the bladder sensory system able to shorten its own effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Traini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Research Unit of Histology and Embryology, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy.
| | - Maria Giuliana Vannucchi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Research Unit of Histology and Embryology, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy.
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Liu Y, Liang Y, Wang S, Tarique I, Vistro WA, Zhang H, Haseeb A, Gandahi NS, Iqbal A, An T, Yang H, Chen Q, Yang P. Identification and characterization of telocytes in rat testis. Aging (Albany NY) 2019; 11:5757-5768. [PMID: 31413207 PMCID: PMC6710050 DOI: 10.18632/aging.102158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the localization, morphological features and cellular interactions of telocytes in the rat testicular interstitium. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence analyses of the rat testicular interstitium showed a distinct layer of telocytes surround the seminiferous tubules along with inner layer of peritubular myoid cells. The majority of the telocytes were made up of a small cell body and moniliform prolongations that contained mitochondria and secretory vesicles. Some other telocytes were observed possessing large cell bodies. Within the testicular interstitium, the telocytes formed a network connecting peritubular myoid cells, Leydig cells as well as blood vessels. Immunohistochemical and double immunofluorescence analyses showed that rat testicular telocytes express CD34 and PDGFRα, but are negative for vimentin and α-SMA. Our findings demonstrate the presence of telocytes in the rat testicular interstitium. These cells interact with peritubular myoid cells, seminiferous tubules, Leydig cells and blood vessels via long telopode extensions, which suggests their vital role in the intercellular communication between different cell types within the rat testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Liu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu Liang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Siyi Wang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Imran Tarique
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Waseem Ali Vistro
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Haiyan Zhang
- School of Biological Engineering, Wuhu Institute of Technology, Wuhu, China
| | - Abdul Haseeb
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Noor Samad Gandahi
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Adeela Iqbal
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tianci An
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huan Yang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qiusheng Chen
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ping Yang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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Abstract
Since the first description of 'interstitial cells of Cajal' in the mammalian gut in 1911, scientists have found structurally similar cells, now termed telocytes, in numerous tissues throughout the body. These cells have recently sparked renewed interest, facilitated through the development of a molecular handle to genetically manipulate their function in tissue homeostasis and disease. In this Primer, we discuss the discovery of telocytes, their physical properties, distribution and function, focusing on recent developments in the functional analysis of Foxl1-positive telocytes in the intestinal stem cell niche, and, finally, the current challenges of studying telocytes as a distinct cell type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayano Kondo
- Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Klaus H Kaestner
- Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Liang Y, Wang S, An T, Tarique I, Vistro WA, Liu Y, Wang Z, Zhang H, Shi Y, Haseeb A, Gandahi NS, Iqba A, Yang H, Chen Q, Yang P. Telocytes as a Novel Structural Component in the Muscle Layers of the Goat Rumen. Cell Transplant 2019; 28:955-966. [PMID: 31023066 PMCID: PMC6719488 DOI: 10.1177/0963689719842514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Telocytes (TCs) have been identified as a distinct type of interstitial cells, but have not yet been reported in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of ruminants. In this study, we used transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and double-labelling immunofluorescence (IF) (antibodies: CD34, vimentin and PGP9.5) to seek TCs and investigate their potential functions in the muscle layers of the goat rumen. TCs were distributed widely in the myenteric plexus (TC-MYs) between the circular and longitudinal muscle layers, within circular muscle layers (TC-CMs) as well as in longitudinal muscle layers (TC-LMs). Ultrastructurally, TCs displayed small cell bodies with several long prolongations—telopodes—harboring alternate thin segments (podomers) and dilated segments (podoms). The podoms contained mitochondria, rough endoplasmic reticulum, and caveolae. Telopodes frequently established close physical interactions with near telopodes, collagen fibers (CFs), nerve fibers (NFs), smooth muscle cells (SMCs), nerve tracts, and smooth muscle bundles, as well as with blood vessels (BVs). Furthermore, both homo- and heterotypic connections were observed. In addition, telopodes were capable of releasing extracellular vesicles (EVs). IF analyses proved that TCs were reliably labeled as CD34+/vimentin+ cells, displaying spindle- or triangle-shaped bodies with long prolongations, consistent with TEM results. Specifically, podoms were visible as obvious bright spots. These positive cells covered entire muscular layers, surrounding ganglions, intermuscular BVs as well as entire smooth muscle bundles, forming a network. TC-MYs were distributed as clusters in the external ganglion, encompassing the entire ganglion and spreading to the muscle layers where TC-CMs and TC-LMs seemingly surround whole smooth muscle bundles. TC-MYs were also scattered within the interior of the ganglion, surrounding each ganglionic neuron, following the glial cells layer. We speculate that TCs support the muscle layer structure of the goat rumen and facilitate intercellular signaling directly or indirectly via the TC network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Liang
- 1 MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Siyi Wang
- 1 MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tianci An
- 1 MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Imran Tarique
- 1 MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Waseem Ail Vistro
- 1 MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yifei Liu
- 1 MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ziyu Wang
- 2 College of Animal Science & Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haiyan Zhang
- 3 School of Biological Engineering, Wuhu Institute of Technology, Anhui, China
| | - YongHong Shi
- 1 MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Jiangsu, China.,4 Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China
| | - Abdul Haseeb
- 1 MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Noor Samad Gandahi
- 1 MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Adeela Iqba
- 1 MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huan Yang
- 1 MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qiusheng Chen
- 1 MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ping Yang
- 1 MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Jiangsu, China.,2 College of Animal Science & Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Jiangsu, China
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Telocytes constitute a widespread interstitial meshwork in the lamina propria and underlying striated muscle of human tongue. Sci Rep 2019; 9:5858. [PMID: 30971762 PMCID: PMC6458118 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-42415-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Telocytes have recently emerged as unique interstitial cells defined by their extremely long, thin and moniliform prolongations termed telopodes. Despite growing evidence that these cells consistently reside in the stromal compartment of various organs from human beings, studies dealing with telocytes in structures of the oral cavity are scarce. Hence, the present morphologic study was undertaken to explore for the first time the presence and specific localization of telocytes within tissues of the normal human tongue, a complex muscular organ whose main functions include taste, speech, and food manipulation in the oral cavity. Telocytes were initially identified by CD34 immunostaining and confirmed by CD34/PDGFRα double immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy. CD34+/PDGFRα+ telocytes were organized in interstitial meshworks either in the tongue lamina propria or in the underlying striated muscle. Lingual telocytes were immunonegative for CD31, c-kit and α-SMA. Telopodes were finely distributed throughout the stromal space and concentrated beneath the lingual epithelium and around CD31+ vessels, skeletal muscle bundles/fibers, and intramuscular nerves and ganglia. They also enveloped salivary gland units outside the α-SMA+ myoepithelial cells and delimited lymphoid aggregates. These findings establish telocytes as a previously overlooked interstitial cell population worth investigating further in the setting of human tongue pathophysiology.
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Varga I, Polák Š, Kyselovič J, Kachlík D, Danišovič Ľ, Klein M. Recently Discovered Interstitial Cell Population of Telocytes: Distinguishing Facts from Fiction Regarding Their Role in the Pathogenesis of Diverse Diseases Called "Telocytopathies". MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2019; 55:E56. [PMID: 30781716 PMCID: PMC6410178 DOI: 10.3390/medicina55020056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, the interstitial cells telocytes, formerly known as interstitial Cajal-like cells, have been described in almost all organs of the human body. Although telocytes were previously thought to be localized predominantly in the organs of the digestive system, as of 2018 they have also been described in the lymphoid tissue, skin, respiratory system, urinary system, meninges and the organs of the male and female genital tracts. Since the time of eminent German pathologist Rudolf Virchow, we have known that many pathological processes originate directly from cellular changes. Even though telocytes are not widely accepted by all scientists as an individual and morphologically and functionally distinct cell population, several articles regarding telocytes have already been published in such prestigious journals as Nature and Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences. The telocyte diversity extends beyond their morphology and functions, as they have a potential role in the etiopathogenesis of different diseases. The most commonly described telocyte-associated diseases (which may be best termed "telocytopathies" in the future) are summarized in this critical review. It is difficult to imagine that a single cell population could be involved in the pathogenesis of such a wide spectrum of pathological conditions as extragastrointestinal stromal tumors ("telocytomas"), liver fibrosis, preeclampsia during pregnancy, tubal infertility, heart failure and psoriasis. In any case, future functional studies of telocytes in vivo will help to understand the mechanism by which telocytes contribute to tissue homeostasis in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Varga
- Institute of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 813 72 Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Štefan Polák
- Institute of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 813 72 Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Ján Kyselovič
- Fifth Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 813 72 Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - David Kachlík
- Institute of Anatomy, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 128 00 Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Ľuboš Danišovič
- Institute of Medical Biology, Genetics and Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 813 72 Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Martin Klein
- Institute of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 813 72 Bratislava, Slovakia.
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Maxia C, Murtas D, Isola M, Tamma R, Zucca I, Piras F, Ribatti D, Diana A, Perra MT. Immunophenotypic characterization of telocyte-like cells in pterygium. Mol Vis 2018; 24:853-866. [PMID: 30713424 PMCID: PMC6334986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 12/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Telocytes (TCs) are peculiar interstitial cells, characterized by their typical elongated and interconnected processes called telopodes. TCs are supposed to contribute to maintain tissue homeostasis but also to be involved in the pathophysiology of many disorders. The aim of the study was to identify TCs in pterygium, a chronic condition of bulbar conjunctiva, and to examine possible differences in TCs in terms of immunophenotype and/or localization between pterygium and normal conjunctiva, to evaluate the possible involvement of TCs in pathogenesis of pterygium. Methods The analysis of the immunophenotype of TCs was performed on a group of 40 formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded primary pterygium and ten bulbar conjunctiva samples. We examined with immunohistochemistry the expression of 11 commercially available antibodies (PDGFRα, CD34, c-kit, nestin, vimentin, α-SMA, laminin, S100, VEGF, CD133, and CD31) and with double immunofluorescence the concomitant expression of PDGFRα and CD34, and PDGFRα and nestin. In addition, we performed an ultrastructural study with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) on a group of five pterygium and three conjunctiva biopsy specimens. Results TCs, ultrastructurally identified according to their "moniliform" prolongations, were localized underneath the epithelium along the basement membrane, around the vessels, and near the nerves and scattered in the stroma. In contrast, TCs, as fibroblasts, were almost absent in the fibrotic areas. In pterygium and normal conjunctiva, the TCs shared the same distribution pattern, except a marked TC hyperplasia detected in pterygium. Moreover, in pterygium, the immunohistochemical analysis of TCs showed a strong immunoreactivity to PDGFRα, CD34, and nestin. This result was confirmed with double immunofluorescence labeling, revealing that in pterygium stromal TCs always showed a PDGFRα+/nestin+ and PDGFRα+/CD34+ immunophenotype. Furthermore, moderate staining to vimentin and VEGF was detected, but only a small number of cells were weakly immunoreactive to laminin and S100. Only adventitial TCs of the perivascular sheaths exhibited strong immunoreactivity to α-SMA. Conversely, despite showing mild immunoreactivity to PDGFRα and CD34, the TCs in normal conjunctiva did not show any immunoreactivity to nestin and VEGF. Moreover, in pterygium and conjunctiva, the TCs were always negative for c-kit. Conclusions Because of the distribution and immunophenotype, TCs in pterygium may represent a subpopulation of relatively immature cells with regenerative potential. In addition, the expression of nestin may suggest possible involvement of TCs as active players in the regeneration of ultraviolet-damaged stroma and vascular remodeling. The fibrotic transformation in the cicatricial area may stand for a breakdown of the regenerative process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Maxia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Daniela Murtas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Michela Isola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Tamma
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, University of Bari, Italy
| | - Ignazio Zucca
- Department of Surgical Science, Eye Clinic, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Franca Piras
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Domenico Ribatti
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, University of Bari, Italy
| | - Andrea Diana
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy
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Reappraising the microscopic anatomy of human testis: identification of telocyte networks in the peritubular and intertubular stromal space. Sci Rep 2018; 8:14780. [PMID: 30283023 PMCID: PMC6170475 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-33126-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Telocytes are a recently described stromal cell type widely distributed in various organs including the female and male reproductive systems. This study was aimed to investigate for the first time the existence, distribution and characteristics of telocytes in normal human testis by an integrated morphological approach (immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy). We found that telocytes displaying typical long and moniliform prolongations and coexpressing CD34 and PDGFRα formed networks in the outer layer of peritubular tissue and around Leydig cells and vessels in the intertubular stroma. Testicular telocytes were immunophenotypically negative for CD31, c-kit/CD117 as well as α-SMA, thus making them clearly distinguishable from myoid cells/myofibroblasts located in the inner layer of peritubular tissue. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the presence of cells ultrastructurally identifiable as telocytes (i.e. cells with telopodes alternating podomers and podoms) in the aforementioned locations. Intercellular contacts between neighboring telocytes and telopodes were observed throughout the testicular stromal compartment. Telopodes intimately surrounded and often established close contacts with peritubular myoid cells/myofibroblasts, Leydig cells and vessels. Extracellular vesicles were also frequently detected near telopodes. In summary, we demonstrated that telocytes are a previously neglected stromal component of human testis with potential implications in tissue homeostasis deserving further investigation.
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38
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Vannucchi MG, Traini C. The telocytes/myofibroblasts 3-D network forms a stretch receptor in the human bladder mucosa. Is this structure involved in the detrusor overactive diseases? Ann Anat 2018; 218:118-123. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2018.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Revised: 01/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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39
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Manta L, Rusu M, Pop F. What podoplanin tells us about cells with telopodes. Ann Anat 2018; 218:124-128. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2018.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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40
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Roedel M, Ravens U, Kasper M, Wirth MP, Jepps TA, Propping S. Contractile responses in intact and mucosa-denuded human ureter—a comparison with urinary bladder detrusor preparations. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2018; 391:773-782. [DOI: 10.1007/s00210-018-1505-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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41
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Comparative immunohistochemical characterization of interstitial cells in the urinary bladder of human, guinea pig and pig. Histochem Cell Biol 2018; 149:491-501. [DOI: 10.1007/s00418-018-1655-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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42
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Dobra MA, Vrapciu AD, Pop F, Petre N, Rusu MC. The molecular phenotypes of ureteral telocytes are layer-specific. Acta Histochem 2018; 120:41-45. [PMID: 29153593 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2017.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2017] [Revised: 11/12/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Telocytes (TC) are the delicate interstitial (stromal) cells defined by their long, thin and moniliform processes termed telopodes. Numerous studies determined that different subsets of telocytes populate almost all tissues and attempted to relate these subsets to various functions, from cell signaling to tissue repair and regeneration. Extremely few studies addressed the urinary tract though few data on the molecular pattern of the urinary TCs actually exist. We therefore hypothesized that subsets of urinary TCs co-localize within the human ureter and we aimed at performing an immunohistochemical study to evaluate the tissue-specific molecular pattern of TCs. On sample tissues of proximal ureter drawn from ten human adult patients during surgery were applied primary antibodies against CD34, CD105, von Willebrand Factor, the heavy chain of smooth muscle myosin (SMM) and c-erbB-2. The molecular pattern indicated three different subsets of ureteral TCs which are neither endothelial nor epithelial in nature: (a) type I: the CD34-/CD105+ TCs of the superficial layer of lamina propria; (b) type II: the CD34+/CD105± myoid TCs of the deep layer of lamina propria and (c) type III: the CD34+/CD105+ perivascular TCs. Although apparently different, all these subsets of TCs could belong to the stem/progenitor niche of the ureter.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Dobra
- Division of Anatomy, Faculty of Dental Medicine, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - A D Vrapciu
- Division of Anatomy, Faculty of Dental Medicine, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - F Pop
- MEDCENTER - Center of Excellence in Laboratory Medicine and Pathology
| | - N Petre
- "Carol Davila" Clinical Hospital of Nephrology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - M C Rusu
- Division of Anatomy, Faculty of Dental Medicine, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania; MEDCENTER - Center of Excellence in Laboratory Medicine and Pathology.
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43
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The sheath of Waldeyer is not a specific anatomical trait of the ureterovesical junction. Morphologie 2017; 102:6-11. [PMID: 29269238 DOI: 10.1016/j.morpho.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Revised: 11/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The function of the ureterovesical junction depends upon a peculiar structure, the adventitial fibromuscular sheath of Waldeyer, which coats the distal end of the ureter. The origin of the smooth muscle of Waldeyer's sheath (WS) is disputed. Evidence points more likely to an ureteral one. In this regard we hypothesized the WS is not specific to the distal ureter but is rather a common trait. We therefore aimed at exploring whether or not the proximal ureter is provided with a similar adventitial fibromuscular coat. We performed an immunohistochemical study on human samples of proximal ureter resulted after nephrectomies in ten patients. We applied myoid immunohistochemical markers: α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), desmin, and heavy chain of smooth muscle myosin (SMM) which labeled additional adventitial smooth muscle bundles, a discontinuous inner circular one applied on the muscular coat, and outer longitudinal cords specifically located on one side of the ureter, as is the case for WS. Moreover, the lamina propria myoid deep layer showed isolated smooth muscle fibers and spindle-shaped stromal cells with telocyte morphology. Our results support the idea that WS may not be a specific structure of the distal ureter, instead being just a common anatomical characteristic of the ureter.
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44
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Yang J, Li Y, Xue F, Liu W, Zhang S. Exosomes derived from cardiac telocytes exert positive effects on endothelial cells. Am J Transl Res 2017; 9:5375-5387. [PMID: 29312490 PMCID: PMC5752888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/24/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Telocytes are novel cells that have been documented in the interstitium of multiple organs; however, their role in the heart remains unclear. This study aimed to identify cardiac telocytes by their morphological and molecular features and investigate whether their exosomes affect cardiac endothelial cells. To this end, rat cardiac telocytes were cultured and stained with methylene blue, Janus Green B, and MitoTracker green, or with antibodies for established cell surface markers, and examined by microscopy. In addition, telocyte organelles and exosome release were examined by transmission electron microscopy. To investigate exosome functions, we isolated exosomes from telocytes and co-cultured them with endothelial cells in vitro, as well as transfusing them into a rat model of myocardial infarction. We confirmed that cultured telocytes exhibit normal characteristics, including long, thin prolongations with a moniliform appearance, as well as positive expression of c-Kit, CD34, and vimentin. Furthermore, we observed mitochondria throughout the cell body and telopodes, and found that telocytes actively secrete exosomes. Interestingly, endothelial cells cultured with telocyte supernatants or exosomes exhibited increased proliferation, migration, and formation of capillary-like structures, and these effects were attenuated when exosomes were depleted from telocyte supernatants. Finally, treating myocardial infarction-induced rats with telocyte exosomes resulted in decreased cardiac fibrosis, improved cardiac function, and increased angiogenesis. Taken together, our results provide novel insight into cardiac telocytes, suggesting that they communicate with neighboring endothelial cells via exosome secretion and that these exosomes exert potentially beneficially effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University1665 Kongjiang Street, Shanghai 200092, P. R. China
| | - Yanyan Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University1665 Kongjiang Street, Shanghai 200092, P. R. China
| | - Fengtai Xue
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University1665 Kongjiang Street, Shanghai 200092, P. R. China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University1665 Kongjiang Street, Shanghai 200092, P. R. China
| | - Song Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University1665 Kongjiang Street, Shanghai 200092, P. R. China
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45
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A new cellular type in invertebrates: first evidence of telocytes in leech Hirudo medicinalis. Sci Rep 2017; 7:13580. [PMID: 29051571 PMCID: PMC5648783 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-13202-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Telocytes, a peculiar cell type, were recently found in vertebrates. Hence this cell system has been reported as ubiquitous in the bodies of mammals and interpreted as an important player in innate immunity and tissue regeneration, it is reasonable to look for it also in invertebrates, that rely their integrity solely by innate immunity. Here we describe, at morphological and functional level, invertebrate telocytes from the body of leech Hirudo medicinalis (Annelida), suggesting how these cells, forming a resident stromal 3D network, can influence or participate in different events. These findings support the concepts that leech telocytes: i) are organized in a cellular dynamic and versatile 3D network likewise the vertebrate counterpart; ii) are an evolutionarily conserved immune-neuroendocrine system; iii) form an immuno-surveillance system of resident cells responding faster than migrating immunocytes recruited in stimulated area; iv) communicate with neighbouring cells directly and indirectly, via cell-cell contacts and soluble molecules secreted by multivesicular bodies; v) present within neo-vessels, share with immunocytes the mesodermal lineage; vi) are involved in regenerative processes. In conclusion, we propose that HmTCs, integrating so different functions, might explain the innate immune memory and can be associated with several aged related diseases.
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46
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Koh SD, Lee H, Ward SM, Sanders KM. The Mystery of the Interstitial Cells in the Urinary Bladder. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2017; 58:603-623. [PMID: 28992432 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-010617-052615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Intrinsic mechanisms to restrain smooth muscle excitability are present in the bladder, and premature contractions during filling indicate a pathological phenotype. Some investigators have proposed that c-Kit+ interstitial cells (ICs) are pacemakers and intermediaries in efferent and afferent neural activity, but recent findings suggest these cells have been misidentified and their functions have been misinterpreted. Cells reported to be c-Kit+ cells colabel with vimentin antibodies, but vimentin is not a specific marker for c-Kit+ cells. A recent report shows that c-Kit+ cells in several species coexpress mast cell tryptase, suggesting that they are likely to be mast cells. In fact, most bladder ICs labeled with vimentin antibodies coexpress platelet-derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα). Rather than an excitatory phenotype, PDGFRα+ cells convey inhibitory regulation in the detrusor, and inhibitory mechanisms are activated by purines and stretch. PDGFRα+ cells restrain premature development of contractions during bladder filling, and overactive behavior develops when the inhibitory pathways in these cells are blocked. PDGFRα+ cells are also a prominent cell type in the submucosa and lamina propria, but little is known about their function in these locations. Effective pharmacological manipulation of bladder ICs depends on proper identification and further study of the pathways in these cells that affect bladder functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Don Koh
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada 89557, USA;
| | - Haeyeong Lee
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada 89557, USA;
| | - Sean M Ward
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada 89557, USA;
| | - Kenton M Sanders
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada 89557, USA;
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47
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Comparative study of the organisation and phenotypes of bladder interstitial cells in human, mouse and rat. Cell Tissue Res 2017; 370:403-416. [PMID: 28963588 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-017-2694-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
With most research on interstitial cells (IC) in the bladder being conducted on animal models, it remains unclear whether all structural and functional data on IC from animal models can be translated to the human context. This prompted us to compare the structural and immunohistochemical properties of IC in bladders from mouse, rat and human. Tissue samples were obtained from the bladder dome and subsequently processed for immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy. The ultrastructural properties of IC were compared by means of electron microscopy and IC were additionally characterized with single/double immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence. Our results reveal a similar organization of the IC network in the upper lamina propria (ULP), the deep lamina propria (DLP) and the detrusor muscle in human, rat and mouse bladders. Furthermore, despite several similarities in IC phenotypes, we also found several obvious inter-species differences in IC, especially in the ULP. Most remarkably in this respect, ULP IC in human bladder predominantly displayed a myoid phenotype with abundant presence of contractile micro-filaments, while those in rat and mouse bladders showed a fibroblast phenotype. In conclusion, the organization of ULP IC, DLP IC and detrusor IC is comparable in human, rat and mouse bladders, although several obvious inter-species differences in IC phenotypes were found. The present data show that translating research data on IC in laboratory animals to the human setting should be carried out with caution.
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48
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Tay H, Vandecasteele T, Van den Broeck W. Identification of telocytes in the porcine heart. Anat Histol Embryol 2017; 46:519-527. [PMID: 28884484 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 08/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recently, a new interstitial cell type called telocyte has been identified. Telocytes are found in many organs including the heart, where they are especially well described. However, their presence in the porcine heart has not yet been proven. The pig is a valuable animal model in research because of its resemblance with man, making it interesting to determine whether telocytes can be found in pigs as well. The focus of this study is the identification and ultrastructural description of telocytes in the heart tissue of pig. Using transmission electron microscopy, telocytes were found in both left and right atrium and ventricle, usually close to cardiomyocytes and/or blood vessels. Their most important characteristic is the long cytoplasmic processes called telopodes, which have a moniliform aspect, measure tens of μm and usually have a thickness below 0.2 μm. This unique morphological feature enables telocytes to be recognized from other interstitial cells such as fibroblasts. Additional observations include the ability to release extracellular vesicles and to make contacts with other structures such as endothelial cells, suggesting a role in intercellular communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Tay
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Morphology, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - T Vandecasteele
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Morphology, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - W Van den Broeck
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Morphology, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
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49
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Traini C, Fausssone-Pellegrini MS, Guasti D, Del Popolo G, Frizzi J, Serni S, Vannucchi MG. Adaptive changes of telocytes in the urinary bladder of patients affected by neurogenic detrusor overactivity. J Cell Mol Med 2017; 22:195-206. [PMID: 28782880 PMCID: PMC5742717 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Urinary bladder activity involves central and autonomic nervous systems and bladder wall. Studies on the pathogenesis of voiding disorders such as the neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) due to suprasacral spinal cord lesions have emphasized the importance of an abnormal handling of the afferent signals from urothelium and lamina propria (LP). In the LP (and detrusor), three types of telocytes (TC) are present and form a 3D-network. TC are stromal cells able to form the scaffold that contains and organizes the connective components, to serve as guide for tissue (re)-modelling, to produce trophic and/or regulatory molecules, to share privileged contacts with the immune cells. Specimens of full thickness bladder wall from NDO patients were collected with the aim to investigate possible changes of the three TC types using histology, immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy. The results show that NDO causes several morphological TC changes without cell loss or network interruption. With the exception of those underlying the urothelium, all the TC display signs of activation (increase in Caveolin1 and caveolae, αSMA and thin filaments, Calreticulin and amount of cisternae of the rough endoplasmic reticulum, CD34, euchromatic nuclei and large nucleoli). In all the specimens, a cell infiltrate, mainly consisting in plasma cells located in the vicinity or taking contacts with the TC, is present. In conclusion, our findings show that NDO causes significant changes of all the TC. Notably, these changes can be interpreted as TC adaptability to the pathological condition likely preserving each of their peculiar functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Traini
- Histology and Embryology Research Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Daniele Guasti
- Histology and Embryology Research Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giulio Del Popolo
- Department of Neuro-Urology, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Jacopo Frizzi
- Department of Urology, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Sergio Serni
- Department of Urology, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Maria-Giuliana Vannucchi
- Histology and Embryology Research Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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50
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Marini M, Mencucci R, Rosa I, Favuzza E, Guasti D, Ibba-Manneschi L, Manetti M. Telocytes in normal and keratoconic human cornea: an immunohistochemical and transmission electron microscopy study. J Cell Mol Med 2017; 21:3602-3611. [PMID: 28714595 PMCID: PMC5706519 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Telocytes (TC) are typically defined as cells with telopodes by their ultrastructural features. Their presence was reported in the interstitium of various organs in vertebrates, including humans. However, no study has yet described the presence of TC in the human eye and in particular, within the stromal compartment of the cornea. To address this issue, samples of normal and pathologic (keratoconic) human corneas were tested by immunohistochemistry for CD34, platelet‐derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα) and c‐kit/CD117 or examined by transmission electron microscopy. We found that TC coexpressing CD34 and PDGFRα were distributed throughout the whole normal corneal stroma with different TC subtypes being distinguishable on the basis of the expression of the stemness marker c‐kit (i.e. c‐kit‐positive and c‐kit‐negative TC subpopulations). Transmission electron microscopy examination confirmed the existence of spindle‐shaped and bipolar TC typically displaying two long and thin moniliform telopodes establishing intercellular contacts formed by gap junctions. Keratoconic corneas were characterized by ultrastructural damages and patchy loss of TC with an almost complete depletion of the c‐kit‐positive TC subpopulation. We propose that TC may contribute to the maintenance of corneal stromal homoeostasis and that, in particular, the c‐kit‐positive TC subtype might have stemness capacity participating in corneal regeneration and repair processes. Further studies are needed to clarify the differential roles of corneal TC subtypes as well as the possible therapeutic applications of TC in degenerative corneal disorders such as keratoconus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirca Marini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Rita Mencucci
- Eye Clinic, Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Irene Rosa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Eleonora Favuzza
- Eye Clinic, Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Daniele Guasti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Lidia Ibba-Manneschi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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