bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ecto-5'-nucleotidase: localization in rat kidney by light microscopic histochemical and immunohistochemical methods.
Authors: Dawson T P , Gandhi R , Le Hir M , Kaissling B
Published: April 2011

We demonstrated the distribution pattern of ecto-5'-nucleotidase (5'-Nu) in rat kidney by enzymatic activity (lead salt precipitation) and by immunohistochemistry with a polyclonal antibody raised in rabbits. Enzyme activity was found in the brush border of the proximal tubule, highest in the P1 segments with decreasing intensity in the P2 segments and weakest in P3 segments in the medullary rays of the cortex. The P3 segments of the outer stripe showed slightly higher activity. Activity was also apparent in the intercalated cells in the connecting tubule and collecting duct, whereas all other tubular and glomerular structures were negative. Activity in peritubular and perivascular connective tissue was highest in the cortical labyrinth, weak or absent in the medullary rays of the cortex, and entirely absent in the medulla. The distribution of the antigen was fully congruent with that of the enzyme activity. With respect to the role of adenosine in regulation of renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate, the distribution of 5'-Nu in the cortical interstitium may be particularly significant. The possibility of nucleotide cleavage at the brush-border membranes may be important for salvage of nucleotides from the tubular lumen.
Regulation of tyrosine hydroxylase mRNA in catecholaminergic cells of embryonic rat: analysis by in situ hybridization.
Authors: Jonakait G M , Rosenthal M , Morrell J I
Published: April 2011

In situ hybridization was used to examine the appearance of mRNA specific for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), the rate-limiting enzyme in catecholamine (CA) biosynthesis, in neural crest derivatives of the rat embryo. These derivatives include sympathetic ganglia and transient catecholaminergic cells of embryonic intestine. Messenger RNA is first detected in sympathetic ganglia at E11.5, the age corresponding to the initial immunocytochemical expression of TH protein. In older embryos increased accumulation of TH-specific mRNA in sympathetic ganglia parallels the increase in TH immunoreactivity. By contrast, mRNA for TH is difficult to detect in embryonic intestines at E11.5 but is found instead in cells clustered at the dorsal boundaries of the pharynx and foregut. Cells expressing TH mRNA are infrequently found in embryonic intestines at any age, even though TH protein is immunohistochemically apparent. Treatment of pregnant rats with doses of reserpine, known to increase circulating levels of glucocorticoid hormones and prolong the expression of TH protein in embryonic gut cells, dramatically but transiently increases the number of gut cells at E12.5 with detectable TH mRNA. After E13.5 TH mRNA is undetectable even in reserpine-treated guts. Reserpine treatment also increases the labeling density in sympathetic ganglia. Taken together, these data are consistent with the hypothesis that the microenvironment of the embryonic intestine affects gene expression directly to alter phenotype. Moreover, although reserpine administration briefly increases TH mRNA levels, the effect is short-lived and does not alter neurotransmitter phenotypic conversion.
A minibead method for detection of membrane lectins.
Authors: Matsuoka T , Tavassoli M
Published: April 2011

Membrane lectins are being increasingly implicated in many biological phenomena. Previous methods for detection of these substances are applicable only to homogeneous cell populations. We have now developed a method that permits morphological identification of lectin-bearing cells in heterogeneous cell populations. Amide-modified latex minibeads (0.345 or 0.532 micron) were activated with glutaraldehyde and then covalently bound to p-aminophenyl derivatives of various sugars. When the probe thus constructed was incubated with cell systems known to bear well-defined membrane lectins (galactosyl receptors in hepatocytes, mannosyl receptors in macrophages), binding occurred and could be visualized by scanning electron microscopy. Binding was inhibited in the presence of excess soluble sugar, indicating the specificity of reaction. Incubation of a mixture of two different-sized probes with two different cell types led to segregation of the probes. This method also permits semiquantification of binding.
Evolutionary conservation in various mammalian species of the human proliferation-associated epitope recognized by the Ki-67 monoclonal antibody.
Authors: Falini B , Flenghi L , Fagioli M , Stein H , Schwarting R , Riccardi C , Manocchio I , Pileri S , Pelicci P G , Lanfrancone L
Published: April 2011

The human proliferation-associated epitope recognized by the Ki-67 monoclonal antibody (MAb) was detected in proliferating normal and neoplastic cells of many mammalian species (lamb, calf, dog, rabbit, rat) besides human. In contrast, Ki-67 stained proliferating cells from other species weakly (mouse) or not at all (swine, cat, chicken, pigeon). The immunostaining pattern of Ki-67 in animal tissues was identical to that previously described in human: Ki-67 reacted only with cells known to proliferate (e.g., germinal center cells, cortical thymocytes) but not with resting cells (e.g., hepatocytes, brain cells, renal cells); this MAb produced a characteristic nuclear staining pattern (e.g., stronger labeling of nucleoli than of the rest of the nuclei and staining of chromosomes in mitotic figures); and Ki-67 crossreacted with the squamous epithelium in both animal and human tissues. In vitro studies showed that when quiescent (Ki-67-negative) NIH 3T3 fibroblasts or bovine peripheral blood lymphocytes were induced to proliferate, the appearance of Ki-67-positive cells paralleled the induction of cell proliferation caused by addition of fetal calf serum or PHA, respectively, to the cultures, and in both human and rat proliferating cells the Ki-67 expression closely paralleled the incorporation of [3H]-thymidine. These findings indicate that the epitope recognized by the Ki-67 MAb in human and animal species is the same. The widespread evolutionary conservation of the human proliferation-associated epitope recognized by the Ki-67 MAb suggests that it and/or its carrier molecule may play an important role in regulation of cell proliferation.
Gold labeling with wheat germ agglutinin and RNAse on osmicated tissue embedded in epoxy resin.
Authors: Brooks E M , Binnington K C
Published: April 2011

Tissue of an insect, Lucilia cuprina, fixed conventionally in buffered glutaraldehyde and osmium and embedded in epoxy resin (epon or epon/araldite), provided sections which could readily be labeled with RNAse/gold and wheat germ agglutinin (WGA)/gold. This method offers labeling of tissues with improved contrast and allows the retrospective application of RNAse and WGA labeling to conventionally prepared tissues, without recourse to oxidizing/etching agents.
Detection of MCT and MCTC types of human mast cells by immunohistochemistry using new monoclonal anti-tryptase and anti-chymase antibodies.
Authors: Irani A M , Bradford T R , Kepley C L , Schechter N M , Schwartz L B
Published: April 2011

We developed an improved immunohistochemical technique for distinguishing human mast cells of the MCT (tryptase-positive, chymase-negative) and MCTC (tryptase-positive, chymase-positive) types utilizing a biotinylated murine anti-chymase monoclonal antibody (MAb), termed B7, and an alkaline phosphatase-conjugated murine anti-tryptase MAb, termed G3. The B7 MAb also was used to show the selective presence of chymase in mast cells. The distribution of MCT and MCTC cells in Carnoy's fluid-fixed tissue sections of human lung, skin, small intestine, and tonsils was analyzed by the new technique and the results compared to those obtained with the older method using a rabbit polyclonal antichymase antibody and a mouse anti-tryptase MAb in indirect immunoperoxidase and indirect immunoalkaline phosphatase protocols, respectively. In tissues known to contain predominantly mature mast cells, there were no quantitative differences between the two techniques, although the staining intensity achieved with the anti-chymase MAb was greater and without development of high background, compared to results achieved with the polyclonal antibody. MCT cells were the predominant type seen in the alveoli of the lung (93%) and in the small intestinal mucosa (81%). MCTC cells predominanted in the skin (99%) and in the small intestinal submucosa (77%) and, to a lesser degree, in tonsils (60%). However, in newborn foreskin tissue which contains predominantly immature forms of mast cells, 75% of all mast cells were stained uniformly and intensely with B7, whereas only 43% were stained with the polyclonal anti-chymase antibody. Therefore, the use of MAb provides for better standardization of reagents and more accurate assessment of the distribution of human MCT and MCTC cells in tissues than previously available methods.
Rapid low molecular weight polyethylene glycol embedding protocol for immunocytochemistry.
Authors: Mowery J , Chesner J , Spangenberger S , Hixson D C
Published: April 2011

We describe an alternative polyethylene glycol (PEG) embedding procedure which utilizes PEG 200 for dehydration and PEG 600 for infiltration and embedding of perfusion-fixed rat liver. PEG 600 has a melting point of 22 degrees C, enabling infiltration of fixed tissue to be performed at room temperature. Sections (2 microM) cut in a cryostat at -20 degrees C and immobilized in agarose were readily labeled by immunoperoxidase protocols with monoclonal antibodies to hepatocyte membrane antigens. Subsequent examination by light microscopy or by electron microscopy after re-embedding in resin and ultra-thin sectioning showed excellent preservation of morphology, with minimal impairment of antigenicity.
Immunocytochemical localization of creatine kinase M in canine myocardial cells: most creatine kinase M is distributed in the A-band.
Authors: Otsu N , Hirata M , Tuboi S , Miyazawa K
Published: April 2011

The localization of creatine kinase (CK) M in canine myocardium was immunocytochemically studied by a direct immunoperoxidase method. Specific antiserum against CK-M was produced in rabbits immunized with canine CK-MM. An anti-CK-M Fab'-horseradish peroxidase conjugate was prepared by the maleimide method. Frozen sections prepared from fixed canine myocardium were stained with the conjugate and observed by light and electron microscopy. In light microscopy of longitudinal sections, CK-M showed a cross-striated pattern consisting of distinct broad and narrow brown bands. Immunoelectron microscopy revealed that the regions of the broad and narrow brown bands corresponded to the A-band and the Z-line, respectively. Most CK-M in the A-band was associated with the thick fibers, and a small amount of CK-M was found in the M-line. These findings suggest that ATP regeneration from the ADP produced by myosin ATPase is related to the participation of this CK associated with the thick fibers rather than that of the M-line-bound CK. Creatine kinase M was also found in the sarcolemmal membrane, the membranes of the sarcoplasmic reticulum, and the mitochondrial outer and inner membranes. This report provides new information for understanding the physiological role of the phosphorylcreatine shuttle in the myocardial energy transport system.
Detection of the Neu5 Ac (alpha 2,3) Gal (beta 1,4) GlcNAc sequence with the leukoagglutinin from Maackia amurensis: light and electron microscopic demonstration of differential tissue expression of terminal sialic acid in alpha 2,3- and alpha 2,6-linkage.
Authors: Sata T , Lackie P M , Taatjes D J , Peumans W , Roth J
Published: April 2011

The Maackia amurensis leukoagglutinin has been shown to react specifically with the Neu5Ac (alpha 2,3) Gal sequence of asparagine-linked complex type oligosaccharides. We report here the preparation of Maackia amurensis lectin-gold complexes and their application for light and electron microscopic detection of the Neu5 Ac (alpha 2,3) Gal sequence in various tissues. The use of the lectin directly gold labeled was superior to a two-step cytochemical affinity technique using a fetuin-gold complex. The Maackia amurensis lectin-gold staining was inhibited by pre-incubation of the lectin-gold complexes with 50 mM alpha 2,3 sialyllactose, whereas alpha 2,6 sialyllactose up to concentrations of 1 M had no effect, thus demonstrating the high specificity of the histochemical staining. In addition to N-glycanase-sensitive asparagine-linked oligosaccharides, beta-elimination-sensitive serine/threonine-linked oligosaccharides could be detected. Data are presented which show that cellular staining patterns obtained with Maackia amurensis lectin-gold complexes may differ from those with elderberry bark lectin-gold, which detects the Neu5 Ac (alpha 2,6) Gal/GalN Ac sequence. Electron microscopic double labeling for direct study of the differential distribution of the Neu5 Ac (alpha 2,3) Gal and Neu5 Ac (alpha 2,6) Gal sequences is reported. Therefore, the availability of two sialic acid binding lectins with different linkage specificity for histochemistry provides the first opportunity to study tissue and cell type expression of these terminal sequences of glycoproteins.
Histochemical and molecular determination of fiber types in chemically skinned single equine skeletal muscle fibers.
Authors: Sosnicki A A , Lutz G J , Rome L C , Goble D O
Published: April 2011

Until now, there has been no reliable method for histochemical determination of fiber types of single skinned muscle fibers. The major problem arises from the fact that most histochemical techniques use cross-sections of a large group of fibers and compare a given fiber with those surrounding it. This is not possible with a single skinned fiber which has been separated from a bundle to be used for mechanical analysis. A further problem is that the skinning procedure itself may alter the staining pattern. We have developed a procedure by which multiple cross-sections of single skinned fibers can be exposed to various histochemical reactions and the staining patterns compared on the same slide to those of frozen muscle and skinned bundles. By this procedure, three fiber types were distinguished by both Ca2+-ATPase and SDH reactions. The fiber typings determined from both enzyme systems correlated well with each other. Although we were able to differentiate only between slow and fast fibers by SDS-PAGE, these results corroborated the histochemical classification. This procedure will clearly be useful in skinned single muscle fiber mechanics experiments performed to determine functional differences among fiber types.
Testosterone immunoreactivity in the seminiferous epithelium of rat testis: effect of treatment with ethane dimethanesulfonate.
Authors: Schulz R , Paris F , Lembke P , Blüm V
Published: April 2011

Androgens drive spermatogenesis by processes that are largely unknown. Direct effects on germ cells and indirect effects mediated via testicular somatic elements are currently under consideration, and specific localization of androgens in seminiferous tubules may provide information as regards this. Adult male rats were injected with ethane dimethanesulfonate (EDS; 75 mg/kg body weight) or vehicle. Testes were fixed and paraffin-embedded for localization of testosterone immunoreactivity 1 and 2 weeks after treatment, using the unlabeled antibody (PAP) technique. Plasma testosterone dropped from a pre-treatment level of 2.3 ng/ml to below 0.2 ng/ml 3 days after EDS injection and remained at low levels until the end of observation, accompanied by a progressive decrease in testicular weight. In the seminiferous tubules of vehicle-injected males, testosterone immunoreactivity was found in nuclei of spermatocytes and spermatids and in nuclei and the cytoplasm of Sertoli cells, and showed typical variations according to the stage of spermatogenesis. One week after EDS treatment, immunoreactivity had disappeared from the seminiferous epithelium. Two weeks after treatment, staining of germ cells was detected in two out of four males. The disappearance and reappearance of immunoreactivity coincided with the time course of EDS effects on rat Leydig cells, and we conclude that it corresponds to androgen specifically localized in fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue. Because staining of germ cell nuclei varied with the stage of spermatogenesis, the technique may detect a physiologically relevant androgen fraction; its location suggests that androgens may also directly affect certain germ cell stages.
Cytochemical and biochemical characterization of glycoproteins in forming and maturing enamel of the rat incisor.
Authors: Nanci A , Ahluwalia J P , Zalzal S , Smith C E
Published: April 2011

Biochemical and histochemical studies have shown the presence of various carbohydrates in enamel. Using lectin-gold cytochemistry, we have examined the distribution of glycoconjugates containing N-acetyl-D-galactosamine (GalNAc) and/or N-acetyl-glucosamine (GlcNAc)/N-acetyl-neuraminic acid (NeuNAc) residues in rat incisor ameloblasts and in forming and maturing enamel embedded in Lowicryl K4M, LR Gold, and LR White resins. The enamel proteins that contain these carbohydrate moieties were further characterized by lectin blotting. All three resins allowed, albeit to a variable degree, detection of the binding sites for Helix pomatia agglutinin (HPA) and wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) GalNAc, and GlcNAc/NeuNAc, respectively. In general, Lowicryl K4M permitted more intense reactions with both lectins. Lectin binding was observed over the rough endoplasmic reticulum (weak labeling with WGA), the Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, secretory granules, and the enamel matrix. These compartments were shown by double labeling with WGA and anti-amelogenin antibody, and by previous immunocytochemical studies, to contain enamel proteins. Furthermore, WGA binding was more concentrated at the growth sites of enamel. Lectin blotting showed that several proteins in the amelogenin group were glycosylated and contained the sugars GalNAc and GlcNAc/NeuNAc. Fewer proteins were stained by HPA than by WGA, and the staining pattern suggested that the extracellular proteins recognized by these two lectins are processed differently. The HPA-reactive proteins were lost by or during the early maturation stage, whereas many of the WGA-reactive proteins persisted into the mid maturation stage. The heterogeneous staining of certain protein bands observed with WGA suggests that they contain more than one component. Two distinct glycoproteins containing GlcNAc/NeuNAc also appeared during the maturation stage. These results are consistent with the notion that ameloblasts produce an extracellular matrix composed mainly of glycosylated amelogenins which are differently processed throughout amelogenesis.
Expression and modulation of surface antigens in cultured rat glomerular visceral epithelial cells.
Authors: Camussi G , Kerjaschki D , Gonda M , Nevins T , Rielle J C , Brentjens J , Andres G
Published: April 2011

This study, using immunocytochemical light and electron microscopy techniques, characterizes the distribution of three antibodies bound to the surface of rat glomerular visceral epithelial cells (GEC) in culture, and tests their ability to redistribute corresponding antigens under conditions appropriate for antigenic modulation (antigen disappearance). At 4 degrees C or after fixation, anti-renal tubular brush border vesicle (BBV) IgG bound diffusely to the surface of GEC and to coated pits. Anti-gp330 IgG had a discrete distribution on the surface of GEC and reacted with coated pits. Anti-podocalyxin IgG was bound diffusely to the surface of GEC but not to coated pits. At 37 degrees C, anti-BBV IgG induced marked redistribution of immune complexes with both shedding and internalization. Anti-gp330 IgG induced weaker redistribution, with internalization of immune complexes predominating. Anti-podocalyxin IgG induced rapid redistribution of immune complexes and antigenic modulation but minimal internalization. Experiments of differential redistribution indicated that anti-BBV IgG modulated the expression of both gp330 and podocalyxin; anti-gp330 IgG had a weaker effect on BBV antigens and podocalyxin; and anti-podocalyxin failed to redistribute BBV antigens or gp330. The relevance of these immunocytochemical studies of antibody-cell surface antigen interaction in cultured GEC to understanding the pathogenesis of Heymann glomerulonephritis (HG) is discussed.
Diversity in immunoreactivity of tumor-derived cytokeratin monoclonal antibodies.
Authors: Sundström B E , Nathrath W B , Stigbrand T I
Published: April 2011

The cytokeratins 8, 18, and 19, expressed in many normal and malignant epithelial cells, were purified from human gastrointestinal tumors and used as immunogen for hybridoma generation. The reactivity pattern of five of the generated ten monoclonal antibodies (MAb) was characterized biochemically and immunohistochemically. All of the generated MAb were reactive with the central rod portion of the cytokeratins, as determined after partial enzymatic degradation, and displayed characteristic reactivity patterns. MAb TS 4 exhibits pan-epithelial immunohistochemical reactivity staining of all epithelial structures, including all layers of epidermis and non-keratinizing squamous epithelium and myoepithelial cells. The determinant involved is present on several different cytokeratins, i.e., nos. 1, 5, 7, 8, and 15, as determined by immunoblotting experiments from different tissues and cell lines. MAb TS 1, TS 3, and TS 7 reveal pluri-epithelial reactivity pattern immunohistochemically, similar to TS 4, but they are unreactive with whole epidermis and with superficial cell layers of non-keratinizing squamous cells. MAb TS 1 was found to be highly specific and reactive only with cytokeratin 8. Furthermore, the TS 1 MAb alone can precipitate the antigen, indicating reactivity with repetitive epitopes on cytokeratin 8. MAb TS 3 and 7 bind to cytokeratins 7 and 8. Finally, MAb TS 8 was found to be immunohistologically the most restricted, in general lacking reactivity to hepatocytes, pancreatic and salivary gland acinar cells, proximal renal tubules, and luminal cells of the epididymis. TS 8 was mainly reactive with cytokeratin 19 and showed weak binding to cytokeratin 8 and 14.
Detection of diaminobenzidine reactions using scanning laser confocal reflectance microscopy.
Authors: Robinson J M , Batten B E
Published: April 2011

We used scanning laser confocal microscopy to visualize sites of peroxidatic activity as detected by the diaminobenzidine (DAB) reaction. Imaging was achieved by employing the reflectance mode of this instrument. Intense reflectance was detected after DAB localization of endogenous granule-associated myeloperoxidase in neutrophils and of the exogenous tracer horseradish peroxidase in mouse oocytes. Detection of DAB reaction products with confocal reflectance microscopy will probably be an important addition to the utility of this cytochemical technique.
Distribution of protein disulfide isomerase in rat epiphyseal chondrocytes.
Authors: Akagi S , Yamamoto A , Yoshimori T , Masaki R , Ogawa R , Tashiro Y
Published: April 2011

We investigated the intracellular distribution of protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) in rat epiphyseal chondrocytes by immunocytochemistry, using a post-embedding protein A-gold technique. Gold particles were localized primarily in the cisternal space of the rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and nuclear envelopes. The ER cisternae of the chondrocytes in all the differentiating epiphyseal zones--resting, proliferative, pre-hypertrophic, and hypertrophic--were equally and highly labeled. The labeling density of the cisternal space of the dilated ER, probably reflecting marked accumulation of secretory proteins such as procollagen, was always higher than that of the non-dilated ER. In the dilated cisternal space, gold particles were freely and evenly distributed, without preferential binding to the luminal surface of the ER membranes. We suggest that PDI catalyzes the formation of disulfide bonds of various secretory proteins, perhaps type II procollagen, in the cisternal space of the ER in epiphyseal chondrocytes. The exclusive localization of gold particles in the cisternal space of the ER and nuclear envelopes and the lack of gold particles in the Golgi apparatus, including cis-Golgi cisternae, indicate that PDI is an ER-soluble protein in the chondrocytes and is presumably sorted out in some pre-Golgi compartment and not transported to the Golgi apparatus.
An immunogold-silver staining method for detection of cell surface antigens in cell smears.
Authors: De Waele M , Renmans W , Segers E , De Valck V , Jochmans K , Van Camp B
Published: April 2011

We developed an indirect immunogold-silver staining method for detection of leukocyte cell surface antigens in cell smears. Air-dried and fixed cytocentrifuge preparations or smears of peripheral blood leukocytes were incubated with monoclonal antibodies (MAb) and colloidal gold-labeled secondary antibodies. The preparations were post-fixed and silver enhancement was performed. The smears were counterstained with May-Grunwald-Giemsa and examined in brightfield light microscopy. The morphology of the cells was well preserved. Leukocytes reacting with the MAb showed black granules on their surface membranes. The intense immunostaining and the low background allowed a rapid enumeration of the positive cells. The labeling could be detected with high sensitivity by epipolarization microscopy. This immunogold-silver staining method was used to quantify T- and B-lymphocytes and natural killer cells in buffy coat smears of normal adult blood. These lymphocyte subsets correlated well with those obtained in smears with the alkaline phosphatase-anti-alkaline phosphatase (APAAP) method and with those found by labeling of mononuclear cells in suspension with immunogold-silver staining. This immunogold-silver staining method forms a good alternative to immunoenzyme methods for study of hematologic cells. In addition, it could be a general procedure for detection of cell surface antigens in all kinds of cell smears.
Immunocytochemical localization of BiP to the rough endoplasmic reticulum: evidence for protein sorting by selective retention.
Authors: Bole D G , Dowin R , Doriaux M , Jamieson J D
Published: April 2011

Immunoglobulin heavy chain binding protein (BiP) (also known as GRP 78) is a protein of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) which has been shown to be involved in post-translational processing of nascent membrane and secretory proteins. To determine BiP's location in the exocytic pathway, we localized BiP at the electron microscopic level in mouse myeloma cell lines by immunoperoxidase cytochemistry. BiP was found to be present within the cisternal spaces of the RER and nuclear envelope but was not detected in the cisternae of the Golgi complex. BiP reaction product was also found within transitional elements of the RER but was absent from smooth-surfaced vesicles found between the ER and the Golgi complex. Immunoperoxidase staining of BiP was reduced or absent in regions of a smooth ER membrane system in myelomas that contained endogenous murine retrovirus A particles. All compartments of the exocytic pathway, including the virus-containing smooth ER, stained for IgG, a secretory protein. These observations suggest that BiP is selectively retained in the cisternae of the ER and is not free to enter Golgi-directed transport vesicles. These studies suggest that BiP's subcellular localization may occur by selective interaction with component(s) of the ER.
Immunocytochemical localization of basic fibroblast growth factor in bovine adrenal gland, ovary, and pituitary.
Authors: Grothe C , Unsicker K
Published: April 2011

We studied the distribution of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) immunoreactivity in bovine adrenal gland, ovary, and pituitary, using a polyclonal anti-bFGF antibody. In the adrenal gland, the inner layers of the capsule, the zona glomerulosa of the cortex, and the chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla were intensely stained. In the ovary, follicular epithelial cells of growing follicles and granulosa cells of mature follicles showed strong bFGF-like immunoreactivity. Endocrine cells of the pituitary anterior and intermediate lobes displayed a positive immunoreaction. Blood vessels, including endothelial and smooth muscle cells, as well as stromal cells in all three organs studied, were not stained. This distribution pattern of bFGF immunoreactivity is only partially compatible with the established mitogenic role of this protein, and suggests a wider spectrum of bFGF functions.
Alpha 2u-globulin in modified sebaceous glands with pheromonal functions: localization of the protein and its mRNA in preputial, meibomian, and perianal glands.
Authors: Mancini M A , Majumdar D , Chatterjee B , Roy A K
Published: April 2011

alpha 2u-Globulin, the principal urinary protein of the male rat, has extensive sequence homology with many lipid binding proteins. The highest concentration of alpha 2u-globulin is found in the preputial gland, a holocrine secretory organ with pheromonal function. Meibomian and perianal glands are two other modified sebaceous glands with holocrine secretory cycles and pleiomorphic peroxisomes capable of synthesizing pheromonal lipids. Immunocytochemical examination shows the presence of alpha 2u-globulin in the acinar cells of all three of these modified sebaceous glands. Whereas in the preputial gland all of the acinar cells exhibit immunoreactivity, in the meibomian and perianal glands only selective cells contain alpha 2u-globulin. In the case of the preputial gland, in addition to the acinar cells some stratified epithelial cells also were immunoreactive. In the perianal and meibomian glands, keratinocytes lining nearby hair shafts and select cells of accessory oil glands stained for alpha 2u-globulin. In situ hybridization with a cloned cRNA probe confirmed the immunocytochemical data. Presence of the alpha 2u-globulin mRNA in these glands was also established by Northern blot analysis. Immunoelectron microscopic examination of preputial alpha 2u-globulin showed the presence of this protein in secretory granules of various maturational stages. Immunolabeled alpha 2u was also found in attached vesicles containing protein and lipid inclusions. The lytic cells were not only loaded with alpha 2u-globulin but also contained sharp-edged, irregularly shaped electron-dense granules which stained heavily for this protein. Specific localization of alpha 2u-globulin and its mRNA in three pheromone-producing sebaceous glands and its structural homology with known lipid binding proteins indicate a pheromone carrier role of alpha 2u-globulin.
Ultrastructural localization of CMPase, TPPase, and NADPase activity in neurons, satellite cells, and Schwann cells in frog dorsal root ganglia.
Authors: Bennett G , Hemming R
Published: April 2011

Sections of bullfrog dorsal root ganglia were analyzed for cytidine monophosphatase (CMPase), thiamine pyrophosphatase (TPPase), and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphatase (NADPase) activity, and the distributions of these enzymatic activities were compared with those traditionally found in other cell types (e.g., CMPase: Golgi trans-sacculotubular network; TPPase: trans-Golgi saccule(s); NADPase: intermediate Golgi saccules). In the present study, CMPase activity in neurons was localized mainly to the Golgi trans-sacculotubular network and lysosomes, but sometimes also occurred at the ends of the trans and most distal intermediate Golgi saccules. A similar distribution was found in satellite and Schwann cells. TPPase activity in neurons occurred not only in the trans-Golgi saccule but also in the trans-sacculotubular network, lysosomes, and scattered tubular elements. In satellite and Schwann cells, activity was found in both the trans saccule and trans-sacculotubular network, and substantial activity often appeared in the more distal of the intermediate saccules. NADPase activity in neurons was usually absent from the intermediate Golgi saccules and was confined to the trans-sacculotubular network and lysosomes; however, activity was sometimes also found in the intermediate and/or trans-Golgi saccules. In satellite and Schwann cells, activity appeared consistently in both the trans-sacculotubular network and intermediate saccules, as well as in lysosomes. These distributions, especially in the case of TPPase and NADPase, differ substantially from the most frequently reported localizations of the above enzymes, indicating that the Golgi complex may exhibit considerable plasticity of structure and function in different cell types.
Assessment of a method for immunochemical detection of antigen on nitrocellulose membranes.
Authors: Chu N M , Janckila A J , Wallace J H , Yam L T
Published: April 2011

Immunoblotting techniques are widely used for detection of antigen immobilized on nitrocellulose membranes. There are many immunolabeling methods and staining methods available to disclose the presence of antigen in such techniques. Five common staining methods each for alkaline phosphatase and horseradish peroxidase were examined. The staining methods with the highest sensitivity and the lowest background were selected for studies comparing five immunological labeling methods using human IgG as a model antigen. Results were evaluated on the basis of the least amount of detectable antigen and background staining. The most sensitive dot-blot method was then tested for its applicability to Western blots. For both dot-blots and Western blots, the immunoalkaline phosphatase methods are more sensitive than the corresponding immunoperoxidase methods. The use of biotinylated secondary antibodies and an avidin-enzyme conjugate is recommended. Disclosure of alkaline phosphate is best achieved with naphthol AS phosphate as substrate and fast blue BB as chromogen. Peroxidase is best stained using H2O2 and diaminobenzidine (DAB). Potential endogenous enzyme activities are demonstrable by blotting methods but can be inhibited by including levamisole in the disclosure reaction medium for calf intestinal alkaline phosphatase indicators, or by incubation of blots with sodium azide and hydrogen peroxide before immunolabeling when using horseradish peroxidase indicators.
A modified gold chloride technique for optimal impregnation of nerves within corneal whole mounts and dura of the albino rat.
Authors: Silverberg K R , Ogilvy C S , Borges L F
Published: April 2011

Ranvier's method of staining tissue whole mounts with gold chloride to visualize nerve fibers was modified by lengthening the incubation time in gold chloride and reducing the time in acidulated water. These simple modifications of an old technique give consistent impregnation of nerve fibers with light background staining in whole mounts of cornea and dura.
Rapid localization of carbon 14-labeled molecules in biological samples by ion mass microscopy.
Authors: Hindie E , Escaig F , Coulomb B , Lebreton C , Galle P
Published: April 2011

We report here on the ability of secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) to provide rapid imaging of the intracellular distribution of 14C-labeled molecules. The validity of this method, using mass discrimination of carbon 14 atoms, was assessed by imaging the distribution of two molecules of well-known metabolism, [14C]-thymidine and [14C]-uridine, incorporated by human fibroblasts in culture. As expected, 14C ion images showed the presence of [14C]-thymidine in the nucleus of dividing cells, whereas [14C]-uridine was present in the cytoplasm as well as the nucleus of all cells, with a large concentration in the nucleoli. The time required to obtain the distribution images with the SMI 300 microscope was less than 6 min, whereas microautoradiography, the classical method for mapping the tissue distribution of 14C-labeled molecules, usually requires exposure times of several months. Secondary ion mass spectrometry using in situ mass discrimination is proposed here as a very sensitive method which permits rapid imaging of the subcellular distribution of molecules labeled with carbon 14.
Estimation of collagen content of liver specimens. Variation among animals and among hepatic lobes in cirrhotic rats.
Authors: Gascon-Barré M , Huet P M , Belgiorno J , Plourde V , Coulombe P A
Published: April 2011

We undertook a study to evaluate the correlation between morphometric evaluation and colorimetric determination of hepatic collagen content, and to analyze the variation among animals as well as among lobes of the same liver in hepatic collagen content after CCl4-induced micronodular cirrhosis. The results revealed a significant correlation (r = 0.9458; p less than 0.001) between the morphometric and colorimetric methods of collagen evaluation of liver specimens; both methods also significantly distinguished data obtained from controls and from cirrhotic rats (p less than 0.0005). After induction of micronodular cirrhosis by chronic CCl4 administration, a highly significant variation in hepatic collagen content was observed among animals (p less than 0.0001). By contrast, no significant difference in collagen content was observed (p less than 0.05) among hepatic lobes of a given animal. These results indicate that in this animal model of liver cirrhosis, interpretation of biochemical data would benefit by being related to the severity of the hepatic collagen infiltration of each animal. Our data also show that representative values for total hepatic collagen infiltration can be obtained from a single liver specimen; we suggest, however, that the specimen be taken from a major lobe of the liver and that a sufficiently large number of animals be used to avoid occasional sampling errors.
Quantitative immunocytochemical localization of Na+,K+-ATPase alpha-subunit in the lateral wall of rat cochlear duct.
Authors: Iwano T , Yamamoto A , Omori K , Akayama M , Kumazawa T , Tashiro Y
Published: April 2011

Ultrastructural localization of the alpha-subunit of Na+,K+-ATPase on the lateral wall of rat cochlear duct was investigated quantitatively by the protein A-gold method, using affinity-purified antibody against the alpha-subunit of rat kidney Na+,K+-ATPase. In the stria vascularis, gold particles were sparse over the endolymphatic luminal surface of the marginal cells but were numerous over the basolateral membrane. The labeling density of the basolateral membrane was almost equal to that of the same domain of the distal tubule cells of kidney. The intermediate cells were studded with a large number of gold particles on the plasma membrane domain facing the basolateral domain of the marginal cells. On the luminal surfaces of the other epithelial cells, including those of Reissner's membrane, no significant amount of gold particles was found. Many gold particles were localized on all the plasma membranes of the spiral prominence stromal cells and on the intracellular membrane domain of the external sulcus cells.
In situ detection of c-myc mRNA in adenocarcinomas, adenomas, and mucosa of human colon.
Authors: Mariani-Costantini R , Theillet C , Hutzell P , Merlo G , Schlom J , Callahan R
Published: April 2011

We used a sensitive RNA:RNA in situ hybridization technique to study steady-state levels of c-myc proto-oncogene mRNA in primary human colon adenocarcinomas, villous adenomas, and normal mucosa samples. Frozen tissue sections, fixed in 4% buffered paraformaldehyde, were hybridized to 35S-labeled anti-sense transcripts of a c-myc clone and processed for autoradiography. The specificity of the hybridization was controlled by using 35S-labeled plasmid transcripts as a negative control, while RNA preservation in the tissue sample was assessed by using 35S-labeled anti-sense transcripts of a murine 28S rRNA clone. c-myc RNA was detectable in all the carcinomas (eight) and villous adenomas (four), but steady-state levels varied from high to low in different tumors with similar histology. Low levels of c-myc RNA were detected in epithelial stem cells of some of the normal mucosa samples (five). No genetic alterations of the c-myc locus were found by Southern analysis of DNAs extracted from the carcinomas.
Specific demonstration of ribonucleic acid by chemical bromination and immunohistochemistry.
Authors: Harms G , Hardonk M J
Published: April 2011

In this report we describe a specific staining procedure for detection of ribonucleic acid (RNA), based on bromination of uracil and subsequent immunohistochemical visualization of 5-bromouracil in RNA. This method is applicable for both cryostat and glycol methacrylate (GMA)-embedded sections. Cryostat sections must be fixed in formaldehyde, whereas tissue pieces to be embedded in GMA are fixed in cold acetone. Before bromination, sections must be treated with trypsin. Bromination was performed in a solution of bromine in potassium bromide. After bromination, excess bromine was removed with sodium bisulfite. The monoclonal antibody MoBu-1 specifically bound to brominated RNA. Ribonuclease digestion, in contrast to deoxyribonuclease digestion, abolished staining. This method makes possible precise localization of RNA, especially well demonstrated in plastic-embedded sections.
Detection of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) by flow cytometry in leukemic disorders.
Authors: Bardales R H , Carrato A , Fleischer M , Schwartz M K , Koziner B
Published: April 2011

We applied a new technique to the detection of intracellular TdT in 26 leukemic patients, including 16 non-T acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), four T-ALL, one T-lymphoblastic lymphoma in leukemia phase, one undifferentiated leukemia, one de novo lymphoblastic phase of chronic myeloid leukemia, and three acute monocytic leukemias (AMOL). Mononuclear cell suspensions were incubated in saponin to permeabilize the cell membrane. The cells were then stained by indirect immunofluorescence (IF) using anti-human TdT monoclonal antibodies and were analyzed by flow cytometry (FCM). The TdT results were compared with those obtained by biochemical TdT assay (26 cases), immunoperoxidase determination (PAP) (12 cases), and fluorescence microscopy (seven cases). The results obtained by PAP and fluorescence microscopy were 100% concordant with those obtained by FCM and biochemical assay. TdT determination by FCM allows the analysis of large numbers of cells in a fast, objective, and reliable manner, as compared with biochemical assay, PAP, and fluorescence microscopy determinations.
Immunocytochemical localization of S-100b protein in degenerating and regenerating rat sciatic nerves.
Authors: Spreca A , Rambotti M G , Rende M , Saccardi C , Aisa M C , Giambanco I , Donato R
Published: April 2011

We studied the cellular and subcellular distribution of S-100b protein in normal, crushed, and transected rat sciatic nerves by an immunocytochemical procedure. In uninjured nerves, S-100b protein was restricted to the cytoplasm and membranes of Schwann cells, with no reaction product present in the nucleus or in axons. Similar images were seen from the first to the thirtieth day after the crush in activated Schwann cells during the degeneration period, i.e., up to the seventh post-lesion day, and in normal Schwann cells reappearing during the regeneration period, i.e., after the seventh post-lesion day, in the zone of the crush and proximal and distal to it. By the technique employed, there seemed to be no differences in the intensity of the immune reaction product in normal and activated Schwann cells. Also, similar images were seen in the proximal stump of transected nerves. Only a slight S-100b protein immune reaction product could be observed in the rare activated Schwann cells present in the distal stump around the seventh post-lesion day, the majority of cell types being represented by fibroblasts and elongated cells at this stage and thereafter. By immunochemical assays, similar results as those presented here have been reported and interpreted as indicative of the presence of S-100 protein in axons or, alternatively, of axonal control over expression of S-100 protein in Schwann cells. Our immunocytochemical data clearly show that the strong reduction in the S-100 protein content of the distal stump of transected nerves is owing to the paucity of Schwann cells and to the decrease in the S-100 protein content of these cells, rather than to degeneration of axons.
Calbindin-D immunolocalization in developing chick thyroid: a light and electron microscopic study.
Authors: Inpanbutr N , Taylor A N
Published: April 2011

Antiserum to calbindin-D, a 28 KD vitamin D-dependent calcium binding protein, was used to localize the protein immunocytochemically in developing chick thyroid by both light and electron microscopy. The protein first appeared in future follicular cells of developing thyroid tissue from 8-day-old embryos. The number of calbindin-D-containing cells increased rapidly to a near-plateau level at day 10; this concentration was sustained until day 15, and then declined to an undetectable level just before hatching. The protein was distributed throughout organelle-free areas of the follicular cell cytoplasm and extended into the nucleus; it was not present in the follicular colloid. Comparison of the time course of changes in calbindin-D content with known differentiative changes taking place in follicular cells suggests that the protein may function in some yet to be determined mechanism related to normal development of the thyroid.
Light and electron microscopic immunolocalization of rat submandibular gland mucin glycoprotein and glutamine/glutamic acid-rich proteins.
Authors: Moreira J E , Tabak L A , Bedi G S , Culp D J , Hand A R
Published: April 2011

We studied the subcellular localization of two major secretory products of adult rat submandibular gland (RSMG), blood group A-reactive mucin glycoprotein and glutamine/glutamic acid-rich protein (GRP), by light and electron microscopic immunocytochemistry. The structure of the major neutral oligosaccharide of the mucin was shown to be: GalNAc alpha 1,3(Fuc alpha 1,2)Gal beta 1,3GalNAc. A mouse monoclonal antibody (1F9) with specificity for blood group A determinants was prepared against the mucin. The antibody recognized a single band of approximately 114 KD on Western blots of RSMG extract. A previously characterized monoclonal antibody (59) against GRP (Mirels et al.: J Biol Chem 262: 7289, 1987) reacted with a doublet of 45-50 KD on Western blots of extraparotid saliva. Immunofluorescence and immunoperoxidase staining of cryostat sections of RSMG with anti-mucin antibodies and anti-GRP antibodies revealed reactivity in acinar cells of the gland. No specific labeling was seen in duct cells of RSMG or in mucous acinar cells of the adjacent sublingual gland. Post-embedding immunogold labeling of thin sections of glutaraldehyde-fixed RSMG with anti-mucin showed strong labeling of the Golgi apparatus and secretory granules of acinar cells. Gold particles were seen mainly over electron-lucent areas of the granules. No labeling occurred over the endoplasmic reticulum. The labeling pattern with the anti-GRP antibodies was similar, except that both electron-dense and -lucent areas of the granules were labeled, and the endoplasmic reticulum was reactive. Double labeling with two different sizes of gold particles showed that both mucin and GRP co-localized in the same granules. Pre-absorption of the antibodies with their respective antigens eliminated immunolabeling of the acinar cells. These antibodies will be useful in studies of cell differentiation in RSMG and of synthesis, processing, and packaging of RSMG secretory products.