Immunolocalization of Vimentin in Macrophage-derived Giant Cells. Method for Obtaining Larger Giant Cells.

Abstract

We studied the ultrastructure of giant cells derived from macrophages that are found on the surface of implanted polymethylmethacrylate intraocular lenses (IOLs) in rabbits and the immunolocalization of vimentin in these cells in order to study the rearrangement of the intermediate filaments in multinucleated cells. In adult Japanese albino rabbits, the crystalline lens was extracted and an IOL was inserted into the residual lens capsule. IOLs were removed after 7 days, and the specimens were processed for ultrastructural observation or for immunostaining for vimentin. Macrophages and multinucleated cell were detected on the surfaces of IOLs by both light and transmission electron microscopy. Nuclei of the large multinucleated cells showed a circular distribution with the center of the cytoplasm occupied by cytoplasmic vacuoles. Vimentin intermediate filaments were observed in the cytoplasm of both macrophages and multinucleated cells. Vimentin in giant cells showed a radial distribution. Results indicate that vimentin intermediate filaments become reorganized after the fusion of macrophages. Experimental implantation of an IOL into the animal eye is a useful method for obtaining larger giant cells derived from macrophages.