Abstract
Summary Eight normal subjects were studied utilizing a simplified technique for determining the number of pyroninophilic and immunoglobulin-containing cells per unit area of interstitial tissue in the rectal mucosa. Histologically normal proctoscopic biopsy sections were stained with methyl greenpyronin and fluorescein-labeled monospecific antisera against various human immunoglobulins. Cell density indices for pyroninophilic cells exceeded the sum of the cell density indices for immunoglobulin cells in each subject. IgA-containing cells predominated over IgM, IgG, and IgD cells. These quantitative histological and immunohistochemical data provide normal values for continuing studies of local immunological processes in the normal and diseased gastrointestinal tract. In addition, IgA repeatedly was identified within the apical portion of the cytoplasm of epithelial cells of rectal mucosal glands. The predominance of IgA in gastrointestinal tissues and secretions and the finding of intraepithelial cell IgA support the concept of a unique type of local IgA system, the biological importance of which remains unknown.
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