Delineation of intrathymic T, NK, and dendritic cell (DC) progenitors in fetal and adult rats: demonstration of a bipotent T/DC intermediate precursor

We previously published study results stating that the early rat fetal liver contains a high frequency of T/dendritic cells (DCs), but rarely T/NK bipotent common progenitors. Now, by using xenogenic rat/SCID mouse fetal thymic organ cultures, we extend these observations to the thymus, in which conflicting data have been published in human and mouse. On the one hand, enriched adult intrathymic CD45+CD2- triple negative for CD8, CD4, and CD3 Ag cell progenitors, which contained both rearranged TCRbeta chain and pre-Talpha chain transcripts, completely lacked NKR-P1A expressing cells, and upon limiting dilution conditions, generated T- and T/DC-containing lobes, but no T/NK or NK ones were found. On the other hand, the CD45+CD2- triple negative for CD8, CD4, and CD3 Ags cell population obtained from 15- and 16-day-old fetal rat thymus can be divided into NKR-P1A- and NKR-P1A(low) cell subpopulations that differ in several aspects. Both cell subsets expressed pre-TCRalpha chain transcripts, but only the former contained fully rearranged TCRbeta chain transcripts. Upon limiting dilution, T cell-committed progenitors were only found in the NKR-P1A- cell population, whereas NK-committed progenitors were present in the NKR-P1A(low) population. More importantly, bipotential T/NK progenitors were very rare and were found only in the NKR-P1A(low) cell population, whereas bipotential T/DC progenitors, only previously suggested in the adult mouse thymus, were observed frequently in the NKR-P1A-CD2- cell subpopulation. Our results demonstrate, therefore, that a common intrathymic T/DC intermediate represents the main T cell developmental pathway in rat thymus.

Distinct mechanisms contribute to generate and change the CD4:CD8 cell ratio during thymus development: a role for the Notch ligand, Jagged1

In adult life, the high CD4:CD8 cell ratio observed in peripheral lymphoid organs originates in the thymus. Our results show that the low peripheral CD4:CD8 cell ratio seen during fetal life also has an intrathymic origin. This distinct production of CD4(+)CD8(-) and CD4(-)CD8(+) thymocytes is regulated by the developmental age of the thymic stroma. The differential expression of Notch receptors and their ligands, especially Jagged1, throughout thymus development plays a key role in the generation of the different CD4:CD8 cell ratios. We also show that the intrathymic CD4:CD8 cell ratio sharply changes from fetal to adult values around birth. Differences in the proliferation and emigration rates of the mature thymocyte subsets contribute to this change.

Role of glucocorticoids in early T-cell differentiation

The results of the T-cell differentiation in the progeny of adrenalectomized pregnant rats (Adx fetuses), an experimental model that ensures the absence of glucocorticoids (GCs) during the first stages of development, are summarized. In Adx thymuses there is an accelerated maturation of thymocytes that is reversed by in vivo GC replacement. In addition, Adx thymuses show decreased cell content, which correlates with both the increased numbers of apoptotic cells and an early migration of DP (CD4+CD8+) and SP (both CD4+CD8- and CD4-CD8+) thymocytes to the spleen. As shown by in vitro recolonization assays, accelerated T-cell differentiation is a consequence of changes in the biology of lymphoid precursors occurring in the fetal liver of Adx fetuses. They arrive at the thymic primordium earlier and mature faster than the fetal liver lymphoid progenitors from Sham control fetuses. After the establishment of a fetal hypothalamus-pituitary-gland-adrenal-gland (HPA) axis, there is a gradual normalization of the T-cell development Adx fetuses.

Early T cell development can be traced in rat fetal liver

The degree of T cell commitment reached by cell precursors present in the fetal liver is a controversial issue. In the present work, the occurrence of fully T cell-committed progenitors among CD45+Thy-1+CD44+ 13-day-old rat fetal liver cells was demonstrated when limiting numbers of these cells in vitro reconstituted SCID mouse fetal thymic lobes providing single lineage-containing lobes for T, natural killer or dendritic cells. In addition, expression of rat pre-TCRalpha chain mRNA was detected in the CD45+ but not in the CD45- fetal liver cells and fully rearranged TCR VBeta8-Cbeta mRNA transcripts were specifically detected in the former population, demonstrating early transcription of some rearranged TCRVBeta genes in the rat fetal liver of 13 days of gestation. Finally, fetal liver organ cultures provided low numbers of TCR gamma delta T cells and CD2+CD8+NKR-P1A- intracytoplasmic CD3+ immature T cells, which intracellularly reacted with a mAb specific to the TCRalpha Beta molecule. These results prove T, NK and DC cell lineage determination at a prethymic stage in the fetal liver.

Analysis of the human neonatal thymus: evidence for a transient thymic involution

The neonatal period is marked by the impairment of the major components of both innate and adaptive immunity. We report a severe depletion of cortical CD4+CD8+ double-positive thymocytes in the human neonatal thymus. This drastic reduction in immature double-positive cells, largely provoked by an increased rate of cell death, could be observed as early as 1 day after birth, delaying the recovery of the normal proportion of this thymocyte subset until the end of the first month of postnatal life. Serum cortisol levels were not increased in newborn donors, indicating that the neonatal thymic involution is a physiological rather than a stress-associated pathological event occurring in the perinatal period. Newborn thymuses also showed increased proportions of both primitive CD34+CD1- precursor cells and mature TCRalphabetahighCD69-CD1-CD45RO+/RAdull and CD45ROdull/RA+ cells, which presumably correspond to recirculating T lymphocytes into the thymus. A notable reinforcement of the subcapsular epithelial cell layer as well as an increase in the intralobular extracellular matrix network accompanied modifications in the thymocyte population. Additionally neonatal thymic dendritic cells were found to be more effective than dendritic cells isolated from children's thymuses at stimulating proliferative responses in allogeneic T cells. All these findings can account for several alterations affecting the peripheral pool of T lymphocytes in the perinatal period.

Early maturation of T-cell progenitors in the absence of glucocorticoids

In the present work, we demonstrated that both fetal liver and thymic T-cell precursors express glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) indirectly suggesting a role for glucocorticoids (GCs) in the earliest events of T-cell differentiation. To evaluate this issue, we analyzed the thymic ontogeny in the progeny of adrenalectomized pregnant rats (Adx fetuses), an in vivo experimental model, which ensures the absence of circulating GCs until the establishment of the fetal hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. In the absence of maternal GCs, T-cell development was significantly accelerated, the process being reversed by in vivo GC replacement. Mature single positive thymocytes (both CD4 and CD8) appeared in 16-day old fetal Adx thymus when in the control fetuses, most thymocytes still remained in the double-negative (DN) CD4(-)CD8(-) cell compartment. In addition, emigration of T-cell receptor (TcR)alphabeta positive cells to the spleen also occurred earlier in Adx fetuses than in control ones. In vitro recolonization of cultured deoxiguanosine-treated mouse fetal thymus lobes with 13-day-old fetal liver cell suspensions from both Adx and control fetuses demonstrated changes in the developmental capabilities of fetal liver T-cell precursors from embryos grown in the absence of GCs. Furthermore, a precocious lymphoid colonization of the thymic primordium from Adx fetuses was evidenced by ultrastructural analysis of both Adx and Sham early thymus. Both findings accounted for the accelerated T-cell differentiation observed in Adx fetuses. Together, these results support a role for GCs not only in the thymic cell death, but also in the early steps of T-cell differentiation.

Partial blockade of T-cell differentiation during ontogeny and marked alterations of the thymic microenvironment in transgenic mice with impaired glucocorticoid receptor function

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are widely known to be potent modulators of the immune system. The role of GCs in thymopoiesis as well as the integration of the thymus with the neuroendocrine system is, however, poorly understood. In the present work, we have studied, in transgenic mice with an impaired GC function, the alterations which occur in both T-cell differentiation and thymic stroma maturation, throughout ontogeny as well as in adult condition, analyzing their possible rebounding on the status of adult splenic T lymphocyte populations. These transgenic mice have been described to present a significant decrease (60-70%) of thymic and splenic GC receptor binding capacity but maintain normal their basal plasma ACTH and corticosterone levels. The animals showed a partial blockade of T-cell differentiation and decreased percentages of apoptotic cells during fetal development but not in adult life, when thymic cellularity was significantly increased although thymocyte apoptosis response was not affected. In contrast, thymic stroma was profoundly altered from early fetal stages and large epithelium-free areas appeared in adult thymus. On the other hand, our study revealed a reduction of the splenic TcRalphabeta population accompanied by an increase in the CD4/CD8 ratio. The analysis of different adhesion molecules as well as activation markers demonstrated that most of them (CD5, CD11a, CD11b, CD69 and MHC Class II) were normally expressed in transgenic lymphocytes, whereas CD44 and CD62L expression was altered indicating the existence of an increased proportion of primed T-cells in these animals. In view of the mutual interdependence of thymic stroma and thymocyte maturation, the partial blockade of T-cell differentiation during ontogeny and the profound alterations of the stromal cell compartment in transgenic mice with impaired GR function suggest a key role for GCs in coordinating the physiological dialogue between the developing thymocytes and their microenvironment.

Glucocorticoid-mediated regulation of thymic dendritic cell function

The possible effects of glucocorticoids (GC) on the biology of thymic dendritic cells (DC) have been analyzed. Both DC and GC seem to be involved in intrathymic T cell selection but possible relationships, if any, between them remain currently unknown. For the first time, we have proved the expression of GC receptors in thymic DC. Moreover, our data demonstrate that in vitro dexamethasone (Dex) treatment barely affects the viability of mature thymic DC, which are largely resistant to its apoptotic effect. Dex-treated thymic DC also show a slightly reduced surface expression of some adhesion and co-stimulatory molecules in correlation with diminished allostimulatory properties. Furthermore, the production of both IL-1beta and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, but not that of IL-6 and IL-10, diminished in the mixed leukocyte reaction established with Dex-treated thymic DC. However, the addition of recombinant rat IL-1beta and TNF-alpha, alone or in combination, did not recover the allostimulatory capacity. Taken together, these results support certain GC-mediated regulation of the activity of thymic DC which could be relevant for the biology of the thymus gland.

Development of rat CD45+ 13-day-old fetal liver cells in SCID mouse fetal thymic organ cultures

A phenotypic analysis of the lympho-hemopoietic cells which occur in the liver of 13-day-old fetal rats was achieved by flow cytometry in an attempt to further characterize the rat lymphoid progenitor cells. A small fraction of rat 13-day-old fetal liver (r13FL) cells, which weakly expressed the leukocyte common antigen CD45, constituted a homogeneous Thy-1(hi), CD71(-), CD44(+), MHC class I+, CD43(+) cell subpopulation negative for CD45RC, CD3, TCRalphabeta, TCRgammadelta, CD2, CD5, CD4, CD8, CD25, CD28, NKR-P1a and sIg. On the contrary, the CD45(-) cells were a heterogeneous cell subset which expressed Thy-1, CD71 and CD44 at distinct levels. After MACS separation, the CD45(+) r13FL cells, but not the CD45(-) cell subset, in vitro repopulated 14-day-old SCID mouse fetal thymic lobes providing rat T cells, both TCRalphabeta and TCRgammadelta, NK cells, and thymic dendritic cells but not B lymphocytes. Interestingly, NKR-P1a(lo) TCRalphabeta+ or TCRgammadelta+ cells developed in the xenogeneic cultures, and a rare CD4(+)CD8(+) double-positive subpopulation among the TCRgammadelta-expressing cells accumulated in the oldest cultures. These results are discussed from the double perspective of the nature of the precursor cells which colonize the fetal thymus and the relevance of the xenogeneic SCID mouse fetal thymic microenvironment for supporting rat lymphopoiesis.

Early hematopoiesis and developing lymphoid organs in the zebrafish

In zebrafish, the transparent and rapidly developing embryo and the potential for genetic screening offer a unique opportunity to investigate the early development of the vertebrate immune system. Here we describe the initial appearance of various blood lineages and the nature of accumulating hematopoietic tissue in the thymus and kidney, the main lymphoid organs of adult teleosts. The ultrastructure of the first site of hematopoiesis, the intermediate cell mass (ICM), is described from the 5-somite stage, about 11.5 hours post-fertilization (hpf) until 24 hpf. The ICM gives rise to the primitive erythroid lineage, which accounts for all circulating erythrocytes for the first 4 days pf. From 24 to 72 hpf, a few developing granulocytes are seen close to the yolk sac walls and in the caudal axial vein. The heart, previously proposed as an early blood-forming organ in zebrafish, did not contain hematopoietic cells. The thymic primordium, consisting of two layers of epithelial cells, appears at 60 hpf. By 65 hpf, it is colonized by immature lymphoblasts. The thymus gradually accumulates lymphocytes, and the lymphocytes and epithelial cells progressively differentiate for 3 weeks pf. At 96 hr, the pronephros contains hematopoietic cells, mainly developing erythrocytes and granulocytes. The amount of renal hematopoietic tissue increases rapidly; however, lymphocytes were not detected until 3 weeks pf.

Early differentiation of thymic dendritic cells in the absence of glucocorticoids

The possible role of glucocorticoids (GCs) in the maturation of thymic dendritic cells (DCs) during early ontogeny was analyzed in the progeny of adrenalectomized pregnant rats (Adx foetuses). This experimental model ensured the lack of GCs until establishment of foetal hypothalamus-pituitary gland-adrenal (HPA) axis, and showed profound modifications of the development of thymus gland. In the absence of maternal GCs, there was a high percentage of DCs, many of them exhibiting a mature phenotype, in the 15-16 day-old Adx foetal thymus, which sharply decreased to reach control values on foetal day 17. On the other hand, the absolute number of DCs of Sham foetal rats increased throughout ontogeny, whereas the high numbers found in 15-16 day-old Adx foetuses significantly diminished in the following days. This process was closely correlated with the thymocyte life span, previously demonstrated, and the early appearance of DCs in the spleen. Our results demonstrate that like for other cell components of rat thymus, DC maturation is accelerated in an early foetal microenvironment devoid of glucocorticoids.

Accelerated maturation of the thymic stroma in the progeny of adrenalectomized pregnant rats

The possible role played by glucocorticoids (GCs) in the development of thymic stromal cell components has been studied in the progeny of adrenalectomized pregnant rats (FAdx), an experimental model which ensures the absence of GCs until the establishment of the fetal hypothalamus-pituitary gland-adrenal gland axis. As previously demonstrated for thymocytes, the lack of GCs early in ontogeny results in an accelerated maturation of the thymic stromal elements. Early expression of specific cell markers for thymic epithelial cell subsets and appearance of a well-established cytokeratin-positive epithelial cytoreticulum confirmed the ultrastructural evidence of a faster maturation of the thymic epithelium in FAdx than in FSham. A similar faster and stronger pattern of both class I and class II molecule expression on the epithelial cells occurred in the former fetuses than in control ones. Changes in the pattern of expression of laminin, but not that of fibronectin, throughout thymic maturation also reflected accelerated maturation. Immunohistochemically identified thymic macrophages appeared late in both FSham and FAdx but in higher numbers in these latter indirectly demonstrating their faster development. Finally, the maturation and turnover of thymic dendritic cells showed a remarkable acceleration in the FAdx. In 15- to 16-day-old FAdx thymuses there was a high number of dendritic cells which sharply decreased in the following days suggesting a massive migration to the periphery and/or in situ cell death. In parallel a new wave of dendritic cell progenitors began to differentiate in the FAdx thymuses but not in the FSham ones. The results are discussed from the view of close relationships known to occur between thymocytes and the stromal components, although a direct effect of GCs cannot be discarded.

Lymphocyte development in fish and amphibians

Recently, molecular markers such as recombination activating genes (RAG), terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT), stem cell leukemia hematopoietic transcription factor (SCL), Ikaros and gata-binding protein (Gata)-family members have been isolated and characterized from key lower vertebrates, adding to our growing knowledge of lymphopoiesis in ectotherms. In all gnathostomes there appear to be two main embryonic locations derived from the early mesoderm, both intra- and extraembryonic, which contribute to primitive and definitive hematopoiesis based upon their differential expression of SCL, Gata-1, Gata-2 and myeloblastosis oncogene (c-myb). In teleosts, a unique intraembryonic location for hematopoietic stem cells termed the intermediate cell mass (ICM) of Oellacher appears to be responsible for primitive or definitive hematopoiesis depending upon the species being investigated. In Xenopus, elegant grafting studies in combination with specific molecular markers has led to a better definition of the roles that ventral blood islands and dorsal lateral plate play in amphibian hematopoiesis, that of primitive and definitive lymphopoiesis. After the early embryonic contribution to hematopoiesis, specialized tissues must assume the role of providing the proper microenvironment for T and B-lymphocyte development from progenitor stem cells. In all gnathostomes, the thymus is the major site for T-cell maturation as evidenced by strong expression of developmental markers such as Ikaros, Rag and TdT plus expression of T-cell specific markers such as T-cell receptor beta and lck. In this respect, several zebrafish mutants have provided new insights on the development of the thymopoietic environment. On the other hand, the sites for B-cell lymphopoiesis are less clear among the lower vertebrates. In elasmobranchs, the spleen, Leydig's organ and the spiral valve may all contribute to B-cell development, although pre-B cells have yet to be fully addressed in fish. In teleosts, the kidney is undeniably the major source of B-cell development based upon functional, cellular and molecular indices. Amphibians appear to use several different sites (spleen, bone marrow and/or kidney) depending upon the species in question.

Seasonal changes in the lymphoid organs of wild brown trout, Salmo trutta L: a morphometrical study

A morphometrical evaluation was made of the seasonal changes affecting the numbers of lymphocytes in the thymus, spleen and pronephros of wild brown trout, Salmo trutta, while the size of the thymus and the three thymic zones were also determined. Results reveal statistically significant changes throughout the year in the number of lymphocytes in the lymphoid organs studied. The spleen and pronephros have similar annual patterns of lymphocyte distribution with high numbers in two seasons, spring and autumn, and two periods of lymphoid involution in winter and summer. The highest numbers of thymocytes occur in trout caught in May and August, and the lowest in winter. In addition to normal lymphocytes, degenerated lymphoid cells that show pale cytoplasm devoid of cell organelles, also occurred in all the lymphoid organs. A negative correlation exists between the numbers of normal lymphocytes and that of degenerated lymphoid cells. The thymic size, as well as that of the subcapsular, inner and outer thymic zones, undergo very significant changes over the year. We discuss the relevance of cell proliferation, cell migration and in situ cell death for the circannual variations observed in the cell content of trout lymphoid organs, together with the possible causes.

Interleukin-7 influences the development of thymic dendritic cells

Interleukin-7 (IL-7) has been shown to be a critical factor in B and T lymphopoiesis, and to influence the differentiation of myeloid cell lineages. In the present study we extend these results demonstrating that IL-7 also plays an important role in the development of thymic dendritic cells (DC). The addition of IL-7 to rat fetal thymus organ cultures (FTOC) resulted in a drastic increase in the number of CD3(-)CD4(-)CD8(-) cells, which mostly expressed typical DC markers, including major histocompatibility complex class II, OX-62, CD11b, CD68, and CD54. These cells exhibited morphological and ultrastructural features of DC, and were potent stimulators of the allogeneic mixed leukocyte reaction. Although increased numbers of DC were continuously generated throughout the culture period in the presence of IL-7, they were not actively dividing, indicating that DC in IL-7-treated cultures did not arise by expansion of pre-existing cells. Reduced DC numbers obtained after the addition of neutralizing anti-IL-7 antibodies to mouse FTOC confirmed the relevance of endogenously produced IL-7 on thymic DC development. Furthermore, the addition of IL-7 to FTOC derived from severe combined immunodeficient mice also generated large numbers of DC in the absence of thymocyte maturation.

Appearance and development of lymphoid cells in the chicken (Gallus gallus) caecal tonsil

BACKGROUND

We have analyzed by electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry the development of chicken caecal tonsil, the largest lymphoid organ of avian gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT).

METHODS

White Leghorn chickens of different ages obtained from a local supplier were routinely processed by transmission electron microscopy. For both immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry, we tested a battery of specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to chicken cell markers on caecal cryosections or cell suspensions, respectively.

RESULTS

A rudimentary caecal tonsil occurs at the end of incubation. The organ grows just after birth, reaching the adult condition 4 days later. Firstly (4 days to 2 weeks), it contains predominantly T lymphocytes, principally TcR alphabeta+ and CD4+ cells, which occupy largely the named caecal diffuse lymphoid tissue. In adult tonsils (6-week-old chickens) however, B lymphocytes, mainly expressing either IgM or IgA, predominate. They occur in both the subepithelial zone and the germinal centers, in which there are also a few T cells. After 2 weeks the CD8+ lymphocytes gradually become more numerous than CD4+ cells. In the tonsillar epithelium CD8+TcRgammadelta+ T cells, CD8+TcRgammadelta-alphabeta-, presumably NK cells, and a few B lymphocytes are the main cell subpopulations.

CONCLUSIONS

Chicken caecum grows fast after hatching. The diffuse lymphoid tissue largely contains TcR alphabeta CD4+ or CD8+ cells. CD8+ cells of caecal epithelium represent gammadelta T cells or NK cells. B lymphocytes which occur in the subepithelial zone, germinal centers, and, in few numbers, the caecal epithelium predominantly express either IgM or IgA.

Role of prolactin in the recovered T-cell development of early partially decapitated chicken embryo

Although different experimental approaches have suggested certain regulation of the mammalian immune system by the neuroendocrine system, the precise factors involved in the process are largely unknown. In previous reports, we demonstrated important changes in the thymic development of chickens deprived of the major neuroendocrine centers by the removal of embryonic prosencephalon at 33-38 hr of incubation (DCx embryos) (Herradón et al., 1991; Moreno et al., 1995). In these embryos, there was a stopping of T-cell maturation that resulted in an accumulation of the most immature T-cell subsets (CD4-CD8- cells and CD4-CD8lo cells) and, accordingly, in decreased numbers of DP (CD4+CD8+) thymocytes and mature CD3+TcRalphabeta+ cells, but not CD3+TcRgammadelta lymphocytes. In the present work, we restore the thymic histology as well as the percentage of distinct T-cell subsets of DCx embryos by supplying recombinant chicken prolactin, grafting of embryonic pituitary gland, or making cephalic chick-quail chimeras. The recovery was not, however, whole and the percentage of CD3+TcRalphabeta+ thymocytes did not reach the normal values observed in 17-day-old control Sham-DCx embryos. The results are discussed on the basis of a key role for prolactin in chicken T-cell maturation. This hormone could regulate the transition of DN (CD4 CD8 ) thymocytes to the DP (CD4+CD8+) cell compartment through its capacity for inducing IL-2 receptor expression on the former.

Appearance and maturation of T-cell subsets during rat thymus ontogeny

In previous papers, we have described the ontogenetical development of thymic stromal-cell components (epithelium, macrophages, dendritic cells) of Wistar rats. Here, we correlate those results with the maturation of rat T-cell precursors along the fetal and postnatal life. First T-cell precursors, which colonize the thymus anlage around days 13-14 of gestation, largely express CD45, CD43, CD53, and Thy 1 cell markers, and in a lesser proportion the OX22 antigen. Rat CD3 CD4-CD8- thymocytes present in the earliest stages of gestation could be subdivided in three major cell subpopulations according to the CD44 and CD25 expression: CD44-/+CD25- --> CD44+CD25+ --> CD44+CD25-. On fetal days 17-18, a certain proportion of CD4 CD8 cells weakly express the TcRbeta chain, in correlation with the appearance of the first immature CD4-CD8+ thymocytes. This cell subpopulation, in progress to the CD4+CD8+ stage, upregulates CD8alpha before the CD8beta chain, expresses the CD53 antigen, and exhibits a high proliferative rate. First mature thymocytes arising from the DP (CD4+CD8+) cells appear on fetal days 20-21. Then, the CD4+:CD8+ cell ratio is < or =1 changing to adult values (2-3) just after birth. Also, the percentage of VbetaTcR repertoire covered in adult thymus is reached during the postnatal period, being lower during the fetal life. Finally, in correlation with the beginning of thymocyte emigration to the periphery a new wave of T-cell maturation apparently occurs in the perinatal rat thymus.

The IL-2/IL-2-receptor complex in the maturation of rat T-cell progenitors

On the basis of both the interleukin-2-receptor (IL-2R) alpha-chain expression on 16-day-old fetal rat thymocytes and the occurrence of interleukin-2 (IL-2) mRNA-containing cells early during rat thymus ontogeny, we have investigated the possible role of IL-2/IL-2R complex in rat T-cell maturation. For this purpose, we analyzed the effects of the addition of either recombinant rat IL-2 or anti-CD25 (OX-39)-blocking monoclonal antibodies to fetal thymus organ cultures (FTOC), established from 16-day-old rat embryos. IL-2 stimulated the growth of thymocytes and, as a result, induced T-cell differentiation, whereas OX-39 mAb blocked the maturation of thymic-cell progenitors. Accordingly, these results support the involvement of IL-2/IL-2R complex in rat T-cell development.

Interleukin-7 treatment promotes the differentiation pathway of T-cell-receptor-alpha beta cells selectively to the CD8+ cell lineage

In this report we have studied the influence of interleukin-7 (IL-7) on thymocyte differentiation by evaluating the effects of IL-7 on the generation of T-cell receptor-alpha beta (TCR-alpha beta) and TCR-gamma delta thymocyte subpopulations in rat fetal thymus organ culture. IL-7 enhanced the differentiation pathway of TCR alpha beta thymocytes, first increasing the numbers of immature CD8+ cells, and later those of both CD4+ CD8+ and mature thymocytes. The kinetics of thymocyte migration out of thymic lobes was also accelerated, and the average number of mature TCR-alpha beta phi emigrants per day was increased in the presence of IL-7. Moreover, mature CD4- CD8+ thymocytes were preferentially generated after IL-7 administration. This TCR-alpha beta hi cell population was not actively dividing, indicating that IL-7-promoted thymocyte differentiation was selective to the CD8 cell lineage. Distribution of some TCR-V alpha and TCR-V beta segments among mature thymocytes was also modified in IL-7-treated thymic lobes. On the contrary, the maturation of TCR-gamma delta was not affected by IL-7 addition during the first days of culture, but their numbers sharply increased by day 6 of culture. These results were confirmed with IL-7-treated cultures for 24 hr, showing that IL-7 responsiveness was acquired by TCR-gamma delta cells late in thymus ontogeny. The present results thus indicate a key role for IL-7 in the maturation of TCR-alpha beta thymocytes and the expansion of thymic TCR-gamma delta cells.

Role of IL-2 in rat fetal thymocyte development

Early during rat thymus ontogeny, an important proportion of thymocytes expresses IL-2R and contains IL-2 mRNA. To investigate the role of the IL-2-IL-2R complex in rat T cell maturation, we supplied either recombinant rat IL-2 or blocking anti-CD25 mAb to rat fetal thymus organ cultures (FTOC) under several experimental conditions. The IL-2 treatment initially stimulated the growth of thymocytes and, as a result, induced T cell differentiation, but the continuous addition of IL-2 to rat FTOC, as well as the anti-CD25 administration, resulted in cell number decrease and inhibition of thymocyte maturation. These results indicate that immature rat thymocytes bear functional high-affinity IL-2R and that IL-2 promotes T cell differentiation as a consequence of its capacity to stimulate cell proliferation. Modifications in TCR alpha beta repertoire and increased numbers of NKR-P1+ cells, largely NK cells, were also observed in IL-2-treated FTOC. Furthermore, IL-2-responsiveness of different thymocyte subsets changed throughout thymic ontogeny. Immature CD4-CD8-cells responded to IL-2 in two stages, early in thymus development and around birth, in correlation with the maturation of two distinct waves of thymic cell progenitors. Mature CD8+ thymocytes maximally responded to IL-2 around birth, supporting a role for IL-2 in the increased proliferation of mature thymocytes observed in vivo in the perinatal period. Taken together, these findings support a role for IL-2 in rat T cell development.

Bronchial epithelium associated to lymphoid tissue does not selectively express vimentin

The existence of a lymphoepithelium containing M cells in the bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT) of several species has repeatedly been questioned. In previous electron microscopical studies we failed to ultrastructurally identify these cells in the epithelium covering bronchial lymphoid tissue of adult rats. In the present study, we analyze immunohistochemically the expression of vimentin, an intermediate filament, reported to be a sensitive marker for rabbit M cells, in both BALT and Peyer's patches. Our results demonstrate, however, the absence of vimentin expression in the epithelium covering the bronchial lymphoid aggregates as well as in the lymphoepithelium of the Peyer's patches. On the contrary, both epithelia are strongly cytokeratin positive. Furthermore, numerous vimentin-positive lymphocytes appear in both lymphoid organs. Results are discussed from a view of the possible relationship between BALT and the so-called mucosae-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT).

Expression of zebrafish rag genes during early development identifies the thymus

Recent experiments have demonstrated that zebrafish is a vertebrate in which it is possible to carry out large-scale mutagenic screens to identify genes involved in specific developmental pathways. To follow development of the immune system in zebrafish, we have analyzed the expression of the recombination activating genes, rag1 and rag2, which we have previously isolated and characterized. These genes catalyze the rearrangement of immunoglobulin genes in immature B lymphocytes and of T cell receptor genes in immature T lymphocytes and are therefore appropriate markers to follow the development of organs containing these cells. By whole-mount in situ hybridization, we detected expression of both rag genes in a paired organ in the head, beginning on the fourth day after fertilization. Histological examination of this organ indicated that it corresponds to the thymus, as described for other fish, an organ that has not previously been identified in zebrafish. By histological analysis, the thymus primordium appears at 54 hr but does not enlarge significantly until 30 hr later. The thymus continues to enlarge and reaches its mature histological organization at 1 month. The pronephros, the major hematopoietic organ in the adult fish, begins to develop hematopoietic tissue about 2 weeks after fertilization. By 1 month, mature lymphocytes are distinguishable in the tissue surrounding renal tubules. Lymphocytes appear in the kidney too late for screening by whole-mount in situ hybridization; however, the pattern of rag1 expression in the thymus forms the basis of an assay for mutations affecting development of the thymus or its constituent lymphocytes.

Immunity in fish larvae

The route of immunization, dose and nature of antigens are relevant for induction of specific immune responses but they are particularly influenced by the state of immunomaturation of fish. It is difficult, however, to determine when the fish immune system has matured and, accordingly, when the fry can be successfully vaccinated. To establish some general parameters which can correlate the development of protective immunity with maturation of the immune system we review: (i) the appearance of first lympho-haemopoietic cell precursors; (ii) the histological and functional maturation of lymphoid organs; (iii) the relevance of phagocytosis and transport of maternal Ig to eggs for early vaccination; (iv) the appearance of both T-like and B-like cells and their correlation with the development of the cell-mediated and humoral immune responses and (v) the mechanisms which may be involved in the induction of tolerance following early immunization of fry. These data rather than a general rule for vaccination of larval fish indicate that the earliest age (size) that a fish can be vaccinated differs between species and vaccines.

Expression of functionally active alpha 4 beta 1 integrin by thymic epithelial cells

We have investigated the expression and function of the VLA-4 heterodimer alpha 4 beta 1, a member of the beta 1 integrin subfamily, on human thymic epithelial cells (TEC) derived from cortical epithelium. The expression of the alpha 4 integrin chain was studied in four different cloned TEC lines derived from either fetal or post-natal human thymus by both flow cytometry and immunoprecipitation techniques with anti-alpha 4 MoAbs. All different cell lines assayed expressed significant levels of alpha 4, as revealed by their reactivity with MoAbs specific for distinct alpha 4 epitopes. The alpha 4 subunit expressed by TEC was associated to beta 1 but not to beta 1 chain, and displayed the characteristic 80/ 70 kD pattern of proteolytic cleavage. The VLA-4 integrin in these cells was constitutively active in terms of adhesiveness to both fibronectin and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1). In addition, this heterodimer localized to punctate regions of the cell in the area of contact with the substratum, named point contacts assessed by staining with the anti-beta 1 activation epitope 15/7 MoAb. According to the cortical origin of the TEC lines expressing VLA-4, human thymus sections stained with different anti-alpha 4 antibodies revealed the presence of cortical, and in smaller numbers medullary epithelial cells bearing alpha 4 integrin. The expression of alpha 4 in the thymus was also found in both adult and fetal rats, in which epithelial cells were also specifically stained. Altogether, our data show that VLA-4 is an additional component of the integrin repertoire of TEC, and suggest that it could have an important role in thymus epithelial cell-thymocyte interactions.

Histogenesis of the epithelial component of rat thymus: an ultrastructural and immunohistological analysis

BACKGROUND

Despite the assumed importance of thymic cell microenvironments for governing T-cell maturation, little is known about the ontogeny of their cell components. A few studies have analyzed previously the ontogenetical development of rat thymic epithelium (Bogojevic et al. 1990. Period. Biol., 92:126; Kampinga and Aspinall 1990 Harwood Acad. Pub., London, pp. 149-186; Micic et al., 1991 Dev. Comp. Immunol., 15:443-450) and recently we have reported the development of both interdigitating/dendritic cells and macrophages (Vicente et al., 1994 Immunology, 82:75-81, 1995 Immunology, 85:99-105).

METHODS

In the present work we analyze in situ ultrastructural, immunohistochemical, and histoenzymatically the appearance and development of the thymic epithelial cell component in both embryonic and neonatal Wistar rats with special emphasis on the origin of the different epithelial cell types, the occurrence or absence of a common precursor for these, and the expression of MHC molecules.

RESULTS

The thymic primordium of 13-day-old embryos is formed by a homogeneous population of primitive epithelial cells differentiating gradually into various epithelial cell subtypes of both the cortex and the medulla. In the cortex, subcapsular and stroma-supporting epithelial cells appear at days 14-15 as two structurally different cell entities. At the same time, stroma-supporting, keratinized, and vacuolated epithelial cells occur in the thymic medulla. These last two cell types differentiate subsequently into Hassall's bodies and hypertrophied cells. Lympho-epithelial cell complexes are identified in the deep cortex around birth, when the cortical parenchyma houses a transitional erythropoiesis. mAbs (His-39, RMC-20) which recognize medullary epithelial cells in the adult thymus stain positively cells of the thymic primordium as early as day 16 of embryonic life. Cortical epithelial cell markers (His-37, RMC-17) appear, however, slightly later and the subcapsulary region is not established until postnatal life. MHC class I and class II molecules can be identified on epithelial cells in the thymus of 15-day-old embryonic rats although they reach the highest expression around birth.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results confirm the heterogeneity of the thymic epithelial component, the persistence of primitive, non-differentiated epithelial cells morphologically similar to those occurring in the early thymic primordium in adult thymus, and the mutual relevance of epithelial cells and thymocytes for an adequate development of rat thymus gland.

In vitro and in situ characterization of fish thymic nurse cells

We present an enzyme- and immuno-cytochemical, and ultrastructural characterization of trout thymic nurse cells (TNCs). Our data suggest that isolated trout thymic multicellular complexes are epithelial cells with acidic compartments that may be involved in the processing of antigens and in the generation of the MHC-II proteins that these cell express, and also that isolated TNCs are the in vitro equivalent of the pale and intermediate electronlucent epithelial cells located in the inner zone of the trout thymus, constituting indirect evidence of the phylogenetical relationships of the inner zone of the teleost thymus with the thymic cortex of higher vertebrates.

Macrophage-lymphocyte cell clusters in the hypothalamic ventricle of some elasmobranch fish: ultrastructural analysis and possible functional significance

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have demonstrated the existence of lympho-haemopoietic tissue in the meninges and choroid plexuses of various primitive vertebrates, including the stingray Dasyatis akajei and in early human embryos. In the present study, we extend these results analyzing macrophage-lymphocyte cell clusters found in the floor of the hypothalamic ventricle of several specimens of elasmobranchs.

METHODS

After aseptical isolation of the brain from several specimens of smooth dogfish Triakis scyllia, cloudy dogfish Scyliorhinus torazame, gummy shark Mustelus manazo, and stingray Dasyatis akajei their hypothalamic regions were processed routinely by light, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy.

RESULTS

The study of serial histological sections demonstrated that the macrophage-lymphocyte cell clusters proceeded from the meningeal lymphohaemopoietic tissue, reaching the ventricular lumen along large blood vessels. In this tissue, macrophages, different sized lymphocytes, lymphoblasts, granulocytes, monocytes, and developing and mature plasma cells were closely packed among a meshwork of fibroblastic reticular cell processes. It never invaded the brain parenchyma. A cell layer of glial elements and a continuous basement membrane interposed between the lymphoid tissue and the neural elements although some macrophages had migrated across the ependymal cell layer. In the ventricular lumen very irregular macrophages with long cell processes and containing abundant engulfed material of unknown origin formed big cell clusters with neighboring lymphocytes, lymphoblasts, and plasma cells, similar to those described during the immune response. Moreover, electron lucent cells which resembled the antigen-presenting cells of higher vertebrates established intimate surface cell contacts with the surrounding lymphocytes. In the third ventricle of several specimens of gummy shark, Mustelus manazo, morphologically similar cell clusters appeared but these were not connected to the meningeal lympho-haemopoietic tissue. No intraventricular cell aggregates were found in the stingray brain.

CONCLUSIONS

Although we cannot rule out that these macrophage-lymphocyte cell clusters represent a permanent structure in the elasmobranch brain they rather seem to be only established after specific stimulation for preventing the entrance of noxious, foreign materials into the elasmobranch brain parenchyma.

The relevance of cell microenvironments for the appearance of lympho-haemopoietic tissues in primitive vertebrates

In higher vertebrates, mainly in mammals, a role for the non-lymphoid components of lymphoid organs in governing the maturation and functioning of immune system has been largely demonstrated. In contrast, such a role in the evolution of the vertebrate immune system has only been evidenced indirectly. In the present review we summarize histophysiological results which emphasize the relevance of lympho-haemopoietic stromal elements in the emergence and evolution of vertebrate lymphoid organs. The most primitive vertebrates, the Agnatha, have no true lymphoid organs and, accordingly, their immune responses seem more related to the non-anticipatory defence mechanisms of invertebrates than to the immune responses of vertebrates. So, the appearance and evolution of vertebrate lymphoid organs seems closely related with the emergence of immune capacities. Thymus, spleen and gut-associated lymphoid organs appear early in phylogeny whereas lymph nodes and bone marrow are late phylogenetical adquisitions. However, bone marrowless vertebrates contain numerous organs (i.e., gonads, kidney, brain, etc...), the cell microenvironments of which support lympho-haemopoiesis mimicking the condition of higher vertebrate bone marrow. On the other hand, the lack of germinal centres, another feature of the lymphoid organs of ectothermic vertebrates which impedes the selection of B cells raised after somatic hypermutation, presumably reflects the absence of some of the elements necessary for this organization.

T-dependent areas in the chicken bursa of Fabricius: an immunohistological study

BACKGROUND

The so-called diffusely infiltrated lymphoid tissue of the chicken bursa of Fabricius was previously described as a T-dependent bursal area.

METHODS

We have analyzed immunohistologically its postnatal development by using a battery of mAbs, most of them raised specifically to chicken T cells, in order to characterize phenotypically the nature of its cell components, appearance, development, and possible functional significance.

RESULTS

Our results demonstrate that this tissue represents poorly developed lymphoid aggregates, the cell content reminiscent of that found in other lymphoid tissues occurring throughout the avian gut. The first lymphoid elements appear in this bursal area only after hatching, growing rapidly to reach the adult condition in the second week of postnatal life. They consist mainly of T lymphocytes, including principally. CD4+ TcR alpha V beta 1+ cells, which form cell groups and CD8+ cells, and TcR gamma delta+ lymphocytes, which predominate in the subepithelial area and within the epithelium. MHC Class II molecule-expressing cells and IgM-, IgG-, and IgA-positive B lymphocytes also occupy the subepithelial region.

CONCLUSIONS

We propose that the bursal diffusely infiltrated lymphoid tissue of the chicken represents gut-associated lymphoid tissue involved in mounting immune responses to antigens that reach the bursal lumen via the cloaca.

Ontogeny of rat thymic macrophages. Phenotypic characterization and possible relationships between different cell subsets

In the present study we combined electron microscopy, immunohistology and primary stromal cell cultures to analyse the ontogeny of rat thymic macrophages (M phi) in an attempt to clarify the relationships between the different macrophage cell subsets described in adult rat thymus. Although phagocytic cells were observed in 15-day-old fetal thymus, monoclonal antibodies (mAb) which recognize different adult macrophage types were unable to identify positive cells until the end of embryonic life. However, our in vitro results from primary thymic stromal cell cultures of 16-day-old fetal rats, and the phenotyping of enriched thymic CD2- cell suspensions, demonstrated that monocyte-like cells which strongly expressed major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules colonized the embryonic thymus early, giving rise later to distinct macrophage subsets. During the process of maturation, macrophage precursors gradually lost their MHC class II expression, acquired other surface markers (CD45, Thy-1, CD25, CD4, etc.) and increased the acid phosphatase activity. In this respect, ED1+ macrophages, which appeared for the first time in the last stages of embryonic life, consisted of a MHC class II molecule-expressing phagocytic cell population, presumably involved in the elimination of non-selected cortical thymocytes, and of non-phagocytic cells which, in the thymic cortex, might differentiate to ED2+ macrophages throughout ED1+ED2lo/med and ED1+ ED2high intermediate cell stages, observed in vitro in 16-day-old fetal thymic stromal cell cultures. At the end of embryonic life and during the postnatal period the numbers of thymic macrophages increased, particularly in the medulla and corticomedullary border (CMZ), and more slowly in the thymic cortex. This increase was presumably due to the arrival, through perivascular spaces, of new macrophage progenitors, rather than in situ proliferation of pre-existent mature macrophages. The possible function of different thymic macrophage subsets, as well as the relationships between themselves and with their presumptive monocyte-like precursors, are discussed.

Changes in the blood-thymus barrier of adult rats after estradiol-treatment

The accessibility of the thymus parenchyma for relatively large Mw (+/- 150 Kd) proteins has been studied by the intravenous injection of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) specific either for all T cells (His-17) or MHC class II molecules (His-19) in control and estradiol benzoate (EB)-treated adult Wistar rats. In controls, the transcapsular route rather than cortical capillaries seems to be involved in the entry of molecules into the thymus. By contrast, a specific staining for either T cells (His-17) or MHC class II molecules (His-19 positive cells) disappears almost completely from the thymic cortex of EB-treated rats except in the immediate subcapsular epithelial cell layer. In these rats, T cells and epithelial cells intimately associated to blood vessels from both inner cortex and corticomedullary border showed additional staining with the respective mAbs confirmed by electron microscopy. The disappearance of the transcapsular route together with the increased vascular permeability of cortical blood vessels would be related to the reinforcement of the subcapsular epithelial cell layer and to direct effects of EB on vascular endothelia, respectively. These results are discussed in relationship to the cell migration into and out of adult thymus, as suggested by the changes in intrathymic T cell subsets evaluated by flow cytometry.

T-cell development in early partially decapitated chicken embryos

We have evaluated the immunohistological and cytofluorometric changes that occur in the thymus of chicken embryos partially decapitated at 33-38 hr of incubation (DCx embryos) in an attempt to analyze possible neuroendocrinological influences on T-cell differentiation and, indirectly, the ontogeny of the so-called neuroendocrine-immune network. The thymus of DCx embryos shows important variations that profoundly and selectively affect different T-cell subsets, but not the nonlymphoid cell components of thymic stroma. These modifications include the accumulation of cell precursors, mainly DN (CD4-CD8-) cells and immature CD8lowCD4- cells, which expand but do not differentiate, resulting in an extreme decline of both DP (CD4+ CD8+) cells and TcR alpha beta-expressing cells. Accordingly, both subcapsulary and outer cortex increase in size, whereas the deep cortex and principally the thymic medulla almost disappear in DCx embryos. In contrast, other T-cell subsets of DCx embryos, largely CD8highCD4- cells and TcR gamma delta-expressing cells do not undergo significant variations throughout thymic ontogeny.

Prolactin and early T-cell development in embryonic chicken

Currently, the information available on the ontogeny of the immune-neuroendocrine network is somewhat scant. However, increasing data suggest a role for prolactin, an important immunoregulatory molecule that resembles cytokines, in early T-cell development. In this article, Javier Moreno and colleagues present evidence for this role using the chicken embryo as a model system.

Ontogeny of rat thymic dendritic cells

In the present study we have combined various in vivo and in vitro approaches to analyse the appearance and development throughout ontogeny and postnatal life of the dendritic cell (DC) populations of rat thymus. The in situ ultrastructural study demonstrated immature interdigitating cells (IDC)/DC in the thymus of 17-day-old embryonic rats, but thymic stromal cell cultures from 16-day-old fetal rats seemed to contain DC precursors which, after several days in culture, produced strongly class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-positive, mature DC. According to morphology and class II MHC expression we also defined three different DC populations in the late embryonic rat thymus; two of them, which remained in the adult rat thymus, could represent distinct developmental stages within the IDC/DC lineage. The third cell subset might be involved in a massive process of negative selection, presumably occurring at the end of fetal life in the rat thymus. In supporting the existence of thymic DC subpopulations, we also demonstrated a differential expression of various cell markers, including CD4, CD8, CD25, adhesion molecules and the antigen recognized by OX44 monoclonal antibody (mAb), on thymic DC during both embryonic and adult life. Their possible significance for the attributed functions to thymic DC are discussed extensively.

The diffusely-infiltrated lymphoid tissue of the bursa of Fabricius of Sturnus unicolor. Histological organization and functional significance

In the present study we confirm and extend previous reports about the existence of a T-dependent area in the bursa of Fabricius of some birds, analyzing ultrastructurally the cell content of the so-called diffusely-infiltrated lymphoid tissue of the bursa of the spotless starling, Sturnus unicolor. It consists of lymphocytes, plasma cells, macrophages (Mphis) and interdigitating cells (IDCs) in a supporting reticular stroma which, apart from blood capillaries, contains postcapillary high-endothelial venules (HEVs). The presence of both IDCs and HEVs confirms the T-cell-dependent nature of this area, as previously claimed for other avian species, and emphasizes other functions, apart from its role in B-cell maturation, for the bursa of Fabricius specially in adult birds.

Morphometrical changes in the rat thymic lymphoid cells after treatment with two different doses of estradiol benzoate

In the present study we have evaluated morphometrically the contribution of thymocytes to the thymic involution induced by a single injection either of 100 micrograms or 500 micrograms of estradiol benzoate. Our results demonstrate that changes in the numbers of both cortical and medullary thymocytes contribute to thymic involution although the importance of the first is quantitatively higher. On the other hand, while cortical pyknosis and a decreased mitotic index could be important for explaining the estrogen-dependent thymic changes, the release of lymphocytes from thymus seems to be the main factor inducing the thymic involution as well as the lack of recovery observed at the end of the experimental period.

Ultrastructural changes in the adult rat thymus after estradiol benzoate treatment

Although numerous authors have correlated high levels of circulating estrogens with thymic involution, a systematic analysis to date on the histological changes affecting the thymus gland in that situation is lacking. In the present study we report both histological and ultrastructural changes occurring in the thymus of adult Wistar rats which received a single dose either of 100 micrograms or 500 micrograms of estradiol benzoate. Both doses induced thymic involution which correlated well with histological changes observed in the lymphoid populations but also with profound modifications in the thymic epithelial component. Moreover, intrathymic erythro-and granulopoiesis, increased numbers of both macrophages and plasma cells, and important variations in the thymic vascular permeability occurred in estradiol benzoate treated rats. These results are discussed from the perspective that changes in both the non-lymphoid cell components of thymic microenvironments and vascular permeability are essential to understand the general effects of sex steroids on the immune system.

In vitro antigen trapping by gill cells of the rainbow trout: an immunohistochemical study

An in vitro assay was used to study the involvement of gill cells in the trapping and processing of particulate antigens. Gills were routinely processed for light microscopy after being placed in medium containing either Yersinia ruckeri O-antigen-labelled fluorescent beads, unlabelled fluorescent beads, Y, ruckeri O-antigen or formalin-killed Y. ruckeri, for 0, 30 s, 1, 5 and 30 min. Y. ruckeri formalin-killed cells, Y. ruckeri O-antigen and fluorescent beads labelled with Y. ruckeri O-antigen were taken in by gill epithelial cells as soon as 30 s after administration. In contrast, unlabelled fluorescent beads adhered to the epithelial cell membranes, but did not occur inside the gill cells. These results are discussed principally in relationship with the specificity of antigen trapping.

Seasonal variations in the immune system of lower vertebrates

Seasonal variation, affecting the structure and function of the ectotherm immune system, is an excellent 'natural' model of the influence of neuroendocrine rhythms on immunity. In this review, Agustín Zapata, Alberto Varas and Marta Torroba examine the correlations between seasonal changes and circulating steroid levels, and investigate the possibility of a neuroendocrine-immune network in lower vertebrates.

Effects of early partial decapitation on the ontogenic development of chicken lymphoid organs. I. Thymus

For the present study we used the classic model of early partial decapitation (DCx) of chicken embryos (Fugo, J. Exp. Zool., 85: 271-298, 1940; Betz, Gen. Comp. Endocrinol., 9: 172-186, 1967) in an attempt to analyze the neuroendocrine immune relationships during ontogeny. The elimination of the prosencephalon in chickens at 33-38 hr of incubation induced profound structural, histochemical, and morphometric changes in the embryonic development of the thymus gland. These included a greater development of the cortex than of the medulla, an increased mitotic index, high numbers of pyknotic cells, and enlarged connective tissue trabeculae containing numerous large lymphoid cells; hypertrophied reticular-epithelial cells; delayed appearance of medullary epithelial cysts; and intrathymic granulopoiesis. Furthermore, preliminary radioimmunoassays revealed a sharp increase in the values of circulating thymic hormones, mainly thymosin beta 4 in 17-day-old embryos. The results are discussed with regard to the possible role of prolactin, thyroxine, testosterone, and thymic hormones in the ontogenic development of the chicken thymus.

Demonstration of immunoreactive vasoactive intestinal peptide (IR-VIP) and somatostatin (IR-SOM) in rat thymus

In the present work we demonstrate immunohistochemically the presence of both immunoreactive vasoactive intestinal peptide (IR-VIP) and immunoreactive somatostatin (IR-SOM) cells in the thymus of neonatal and adult rats. IR-VIP and IR-SOM from thymic tissue extracts were identified by gel chromatography, HPLC as VIP standard, and somatostatin S-28, respectively. IR-VIP (352.7 pg/thymus) amounts greater than those of IR-SOM (38.7 pg/thymus) detected by radioimmunoassay in the thymus of 3-month-old rats reflected the abundance of IR-VIP positive cells demonstrated by immunohistochemistry. Somatostatin-like immunoreactive cells were identified as epithelial or neuroendocrine-like cells arranged in the thymic cortico-medullary border, whereas IR-VIP positive cells appeared to be large lymphoid cells distributed along the connective tissue trabeculae. Furthermore, IR-VIP lymphoid cells occurred in the periarteriolar lymphoid tissue of the splenic white pulp where lymphoblasts accumulate. The results are discussed with respect to the mutual interactions between the neuroendocrine and immune systems and the possible role played by neuropeptides in these interactions.

Ultrastructural changes in the thymus of the turtle Mauremys caspica in relation to the seasonal cycle

Changes in the ultrastructure of the thymus of the turtle Mauremys caspica, with special reference to its non-lymphoid components, were studied in relation to the seasonal cycle. The thymic cortex contains framework-forming epithelial-reticular cells and free macrophages, while the medulla includes, in addition, mature and presumptive pro-interdigitating cells. The ultrastructural features of these cells are generally similar to those described for non-lymphoid components of the mammalian thymus. The turtle thymus undergoes cortical involution in spring, with recovery periods in May-June and during autumn. A moderate involution occurs in winter. At the beginning of spring, cortical (but not medullary) epithelial-reticular cells show degenerative changes, probably related to high levels of circulating testosterone. In spring and autumn, mature interdigitating cells are absent, but macrophages, monocytes, and pro-interdigitating cells are found. During May-June, the cortical epithelial-reticular population recovers and macrophages, monocytes, and interdigitating cells are actively phagocytic. In summer, the epithelial-reticular cells in both cortex and medulla display normal ultrastructural features; mature and immature interdigitating cells are absent and some macrophages are detected occasionally. The results suggest that non-lymphoid components of the reptilian thymus can play a role in governing T-lymphocyte differentiation, and that the thymic cortex and medulla exhibit different cycles of seasonal activity.

Macrophages and epithelial cells of the thymus gland. An ultrastructural study in the natterjack, Bufo calamita

In the present study, the ultrastructure of the stromal components, basically epithelial elements and macrophages, of the thymus of adult natterjacks, Bufo calamita has been analyzed. A network of stellate epithelial-reticular cells joined together by desmosomes, constitutes the main component of the thymic parenchyma in both cortex and medulla. In the medulla pale, electron-lucent epithelial cells, sometimes showing surface interdigitations, are striking elements. Moreover, uni- and multicellular epithelial cysts appear in the thymic medulla as well as granulated cells of possible endocrine significance. Remarkably, isolated or grouped gland cells whose morphology and cytoplasmic content resemble that of the skin glands, were occasionally found. Finally, macrophages, multinucleated giant cells and dendritic-like cells, the latter intimately associated to lymphocytes, occur in the thymus of Bufo calamita. The most remarkable morphologic characteristics of all those non-lymphoid cell types, as well as their possible functional significance are comparatively discussed with available information on the amphibian and higher vertebrate thymic cytoarchitecture.

Occurrence of lymphohaemopoietic tissue in the meninges of the stingray Dasyatis akajei (Elasmobranchii, chondricthyes)

The cytoarchitecture of the lymphohaemopoietic masses occurring in the "meninx primitiva" of the stingray Dasyatis akajei (Elasmobranchii, Chondricthyes) has been analyzed by light and scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Lymphohaemopoietic aggregates showing similar morphologies occurred along all the central nervous system, but they were more frequent in the telencephalon, diencephalon, and mesencephalon. In each aggregate, the granulopoietic tissue appeared in a fibroblastic stroma surrounding the large blood vessels, and the lymphoid components were present in a reticular network. Developing and mature eosinophils and heterophils--as well as lymphocytes, monocytes, macrophages, and plasma cells--are the main free cells present in these meningeal aggregates. The remarkable intimate association between macrophages and lymphoid cells to form close cell clusters suggests some immunological capacity for the meningeal lymphohaemopoietic tissue. According to their capacities, presence of lymphoid tissue, and histological organization, the meningeal lymphohemopoietic aggregates of Dasyatis akajei resemble other lymphomyeloid aggregates associated with cranium and choroid plexuses in Holocephali and Ganoidei. The phylogenetical relationships of these aggregates with mammalian bone marrow are discussed.

Structure and function of the melano-macrophage centres of the goldfish Carassius auratus

We have studied the melano-macrophage centres (MMCs) of Carassius auratus as well as the changes they undergo in different experimental conditions. The MMCs of the spleen contain brown and yellow pigments, but dark pigments abound in those of the kidney. They occur in association with splenic ellipsoids and scattered throughout the renal parenchyma. Histochemical tests demonstrated small amounts of lipids and basic proteins, abundant neutral mucopolisaccharides and differences between the spleen MMCs and those of the kidney, specially regarding the presence or absence of haemosiderins and melanins. Electron microscopy shows them to consist of phagocytes containing degenerated debris, sometimes surrounded by a discontinuous layer of flat reticular cells. The MMCs of the spleen and kidney trap carbon material 48 hours after injection of Indian ink. Primary and -more so- secondary immunization with SRBC produces a net increase in number and size of MMCs. Treatment with phenylhydrazine produces a notable and fast increase of the MMCs in both organs. After 5 days the MMCs degenerated and erythroblasts restored the erythroid population. Apparently, MMCs represent non-specific means of phagocytosis related to different physiological processes.