Abstract

IntroductionA newly described type of interstitial cells – the telocytes – takes part in the repair/regenerative processes in several organs, including adult mammalian heart. Telocytes form a complex interstitial network, establishing hetero‐cellular contacts with resident stem/progenitor cells.MethodsImmunohistochemistry, transmission electron microscopy and cellular electron tomography were used to identify and characterize the presence and intercellular relations of telocytes in rat heart (n=10) and human salivary glands (n=5). Experimental myocardial infarction was induced and samples from different time intervals (24h, 48h, 1 week) were compared with normal hearts.ResultsCardiac telocytes play an essential role in “nursing” progenitor cells in cardiac stem cell niches. The putative salivary stem cells are also in close contact with telocytes prolongations (telopodes), creating a specific microenvironment, in several periacinar or periductal areas.ConclusionPathology of both vital (heart) and non‐vital (salivary glands) organs may lead to mild or severe dysfunction(s). The deciphering of local tissue repair and renewal mechanisms is of utmost significance. Telocytes may have the potential to increase the efficiency of self‐healing capacity, in a close tandem with resident stem cells.Grant Funding Source: AAA

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