Cisternae Of Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum Research Articles

Comprehensive characterization of human adipose tissue-derived stem cells expanded in vitro

Adipose tissue seems to be a rich and safe source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). The present study was aimed to investigate the biological and morphological characteristics of human adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ATSCs). Light and transmission electron microscopy were used. Course of proliferation was analyzed by growth curve. Expression of surface antigens was assessed by flow cytometry. Chondrogenic potential was assessed by immunohistochemistry. Obtained results showed morphology typical of fibroblastoid cells. TEM analysis proved ultrastructural morphology similar to MSCs from other sources. ATSCs reflected their proteosynthetic and metabolic activity. Each cell had irregular shape of nucleus with noticeable nucleoli. Abundant cisterns of rough endoplasmic reticulum were present in their cytoplasm. Karyotype mapping showed normal count of human chromosomes (46,XX). The growth curve revealed high capability for proliferation and population doubling time was 27.36 hours. ATSCs were positive for CD13, CD29, CD44, CD73, CD90, CD105 and CD106, but did not express CD14, CD34, CD45 and HLA-DR. It was also proved that ATSCs underwent chondrogenic differentiation in vitro. On the basis of obtained results it should be emphasized that ATSCs are typical MSCs and after further investigations they may be used in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Changes in fine structure of pericytes and novel desmin-immunopositive perivascular cells during postnatal development in rat anterior pituitary gland

Pericytes are perivascular cells associated with capillaries. We previously demonstrated that pericytes, identified by desmin immunohistochemistry, produce type I and III collagens in the anterior pituitary gland of adult rats. In addition, we recently used desmin immunoelectron microscopy to characterize a novel type of perivascular cell, dubbed a desmin-immunopositive perivascular cell, in the anterior pituitary. These two types of perivascular cells differ in fine structure. The present study attempted to characterize the morphological features of pituitary pericytes and novel desmin-immunopositive perivascular cells during postnatal development, in particular their role in collagen synthesis. Desmin immunostaining revealed numerous perivascular cells at postnatal day 5 (P5) and P10. Transmission electron microscopy showed differences in the fine structure of the two cell types, starting at P5. Pericytes had well-developed rough endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus at P5 and P10. The novel desmin-immunopositive perivascular cells exhibited dilated cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum at P5-P30. In addition, during early postnatal development in the gland, a number of type I and III collagen-expressing cells were observed, as were high expression levels of these collagen mRNAs. We conclude that pituitary pericytes and novel desmin-immunopositive perivascular cells contain well-developed cell organelles and that they actively synthesize collagens during the early postnatal period.

Tissue engineering for cartilage repair: growth and proliferation of hBM-MSCs on scaffolds composed of Collagen I and Heparan Sulphate

Purpose: To evaluate the proliferation and chondrogenic potential of human Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hBM-MSCs) grown on type I Collagen (Col I) and different concentrations of Heparan Sulfate (HS) scaffolds. We also studied the quality of the neo-synthesized cartilaginous tissue. Methods: hBM-MSCs were cultured over the scaffolds in chondrogenic differentiation medium (Lonza, Biowhittaker, Belgium) or DMEM with 20% FBS (Fetal Bovine Serum) for 15 and 30 days, in both cases plus 100 nM PTHrP (Parathyroid hormone-related protein). Scaffolds without cells were cultured in chondrogenic medium as negative controls. Chondrogenic differentiation and neosythesized cartilage quality were evaluated by histochemical and immunohistochemical analysis, molecular biology techniques and electron microscopy. Culture supernatants were collected every 3-4 days to determine collagen presence by Elisa assays. Results: Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) (fig.1A) and Masson's trichrome (MT) (fig.1B) staining showed that stimulated hBM-MSCs spread throughout the biomaterials in high percentage, showing a good morphology at both times of study as well as a wide distribution of Extracellular Matrix (ECM). These constructs showed positivity for safranin O (SO) (fig.1C), Toluidine Blue (TB), aggrecan (Agg) (fig.1D) and type II collagen (Col II) (fig.1E). Isolated cells were able to proliferate on Col I and various concentrations of HS scaffolds, as they showed high percentages of positivity for Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA) proliferation marker (fig.1F). hBM-MSCs proliferated better when cultured in chondrogenic medium than in the usual growth medium (DMEM 20% FBS).Degradation of biomaterials was gradual, as fibers were replaced with ECM. Molecular analysis indicated the expression of cartilage-characteristic genes, such as Sox9 [SRY (sex determining region Y)-box 9], Agg and Col II (fig.2) and absence of Col I, a marker of hypertrophic cells. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy confirmed the presence of cells and ECM after 15 and 30 days of culture. Cells attached to the scaffolds and exhibited a rounded morphology (fig.3A-3D). They showed a high number of distended Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (R.E.R) cisternae (fig.3E), electrodense and bright vesicles (fig.3F, 3G), and great amount of mitochondria, suggesting great cell activity. New fibrils were differentiated surrounding cell surfaces at both times of study, conforming neosynthesized cartilage (fig.3H). Finally, culture supernatants analyses showed the release of collagen in most of the time periods studied (fig.4), confirming the chondrogenic differentiation of the hBM-MSCs. Conclusions: Col I and HS scaffolds were optimal for hBM-MSCs growth and also contributed to their phenotype maintenance. Our supports favour differentiation towards chondrocytes-like cells after both 15 and 30 days in chondrogenic medium. Detection of extracellular matrix characteristic compounds in the constructs confirms chondrogenic differentiation and synthesis of cartilaginous tissue, proving their possible use to regenerate cartilage damages. Acknowledgements: B. Parma (OPOCRIN S.P.A.); P. Esbrit (Fundación Jiménez Díaz), CAM(S2009/MAT-1472); CIBER BBN CB06-01-0040; REDICENT.

Histomorphometrical and ultrastructural study of the effects of carbendazim on the magnum of the Japanese quail (<i>Coturnix coturnix japonica</i>)

The study investigated the effect of various doses of carbendazim on the morphology of the magnum of the Japanese quail. No morphological changes were observed in the magnum in birds treated with carbendazim at doses of 25 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg bodyweight. A carbendazim dose of 400 mg/kg bodyweight was the lowest dose which caused morphological changes in the magnum. Histologically, carbendazim caused pyknosis and glandular atrophy in the magnum mucosa. Carbendazim also caused significant decreases in the height of the mucosal folds, epithelial height, glandular width and glandular luminal diameter at 400 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg (p < 0.05). At ultrastructural level, dose-dependent deciliation was observed. Pyknotic nuclei, dilated cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum, swollen mitochondria, numerous vacuoles and lysosomes in the luminal and glandular epithelia were identified. The observed degenerative changes could be due to cytoskeletal disruption caused by carbendazim toxicity. Degeneration of the luminal and glandular cells in the magnum pose a potential threat to the egg production and reproduction of exposed birds.

Histochemical examination of vascular medial calcification of aorta in klotho-deficient mice

Examination of klotho-deficient (kl/kl) mice showed that they had developed vascular medial calcification. Von Kossa and van Gieson staining showed calcification of the straight elongated elastic lamellae. Interestingly, elastic fibers, but not the abundant collagen fibrils surrounding them, were preferentially calcified in the kl/kl aorta. Unlike normal vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), tunica media cells of kl/kl mice had developed cisterns of rough endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus; thus, they resembled matrix-synthesizing cells rather than authentic VSMCs. Additionally, many matrix vesicle-like structures and calcifying nodules were observed in the vicinity of these VSMC-like cells in kl/kl tunica media. Several calcifying nodules made contact with the amorphous organic materials, allowing the extension of calcification into the amorphous materials from these contact points. In contrast, mineral deposition within the amorphous organic materials was also observed, indicating dystrophic calcification. These observations suggest 2 possible pathways of vascular calcification: one involving matrix vesicle-like structures that could include mineral crystals and the other involving the deposition of calcium phosphates within the amorphous materials. The former pathway suggests the possibility of trans-differentiation of VSMCs into the osteoblastic lineage that could induce biological calcification of vascular tissues, in addition to the classical hypothesis involving dystrophic calcification. Here, we review our current findings on the process of vascular medial calcification of the aorta in klotho-deficient mice.

Signet Ring Cell Lymphoma with Plasmacytic Differentiation in a Pig

A case of signet ring cell lymphoma in a 3-year-old mixed-breed sow is described. Macroscopical examination revealed enlargement of superficial, thoracic and abdominal lymph nodes and multiple tumor masses in the liver. The neoplastic tissue was composed of follicle center-like structures, in which neoplastic cells with Russell bodies were conspicuous. The bodies were immunostained for IgM (κ), and corresponded to moderately dense amorphous material within markedly distended cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) at the ultrastructural level. In contrast to typical signet ring cell lymphoma, the component cells of which resemble follicular center B lymphocytes with poorly developed RER, most neoplastic cells had features of plasma cells characterized by a cartwheel arrangement of heterochromatin and development of RER. Signet ring cells frequently had one or a few large Russell bodies occupying the entire cytoplasm, which may have been caused by abundant synthesis and defective secretion of immunoglobulin.

Electron and Scanning Microscopic Observations on the Syncytiotrophoblast Microvillous Membrane Contribution to Preeclampsia in Early Placental Rats

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy-specific syndrome characterized by new-onset hypertension and proteinuria, occurring usually after 20 weeks’ gestation. The current study was carried out on 60 female Wistar rats. Group I: included virgin non-pregnant rats. Group II: included pregnant rats that were received saline solution (0.5 ml/100 g body weight) subcutaneously daily starting from day 7 to day 14 of gestation and served as control group. Group III: included pregnant rats that were treated with bestatin dissolved in saline in a dose of (40.0 μg/ml)/100 g body weight subcutaneously and daily starting from the same day of gestation and for the same duration as mentioned for group II, to make an animal model of preeclampsia. Hence several possible mechanisms of the activation in pre-eclampsia can be considered, all dependent on the syncytiotrophoblast microvillous surface membrane which is the placental surface in contact with maternal blood. Electron microscopic study revealed regions of syncytiotrophoblast in process of degenerative change were found. These regions were more abundant in pre-eclamptic specimens. Increase irregular deeply indented nuclei of the syncytiotrophoblast layer. Regions of syncytiotrophoblast revealed dilated cisterns of rough endoplasmic reticulum. The objectives of this study were to develop an approach to definitively identify and distinguish the syncytiotrophoblast ultrastructural changes to unambiguously determine the relative susceptibility to constitutive and placental oxidative stressinduced preeclampsia.

Russell Body Gastroenteritis: An Aberrant Manifestation of Chronic Inflammation in Gastrointestinal Mucosa

First described in 1998, Russell body gastritis is a rare chronic inflammatory condition characterized by abundant intramucosal polyclonal plasma cells, which contain intracytoplasmic eosinophilic globules of immunoglobulins (Russell bodies) that displace the nucleus, with an accompanying chronic inflammatory infiltrate. Russell bodies represent a cellular response to overstimulation of plasma cells, leading to the accumulation of abundant, nondegradable, condensed immunoglobulin in dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum cisternae. Russell body gastritis usually occurs in the gastric antrum, but two cases of Russell body duodenitis have been recently described. Herein, we report an unusual case of Barrett esophagus with prominent lymphoplasmacytic infiltration and Russell bodies, which expands the current spectrum of Russell body gastritis/duodenitis. Given the various anatomic locations in which Russell body gastritis may arise, we suggest that “Russell body gastroenteritis” may be a more appropriate designation for this uncommon reactive condition.

Morphological changes in peripheral nervous system of sheep in nitrate intoxication

The results of the experimental nitrate intoxication of sheep. A considerable destructive changes in all components of the solar plexus, spinal nodes, liver and celiac plexus nerve. Changes are characterized by reduction in the number of neurons in their cytoplasm marked reduction of the rough endoplasmic reticulum cisterns and policy, there is accumulation of residual bodies and lipofuscin. In neuroglial cells are formed vacuoles of various sizes, the number of cytoplasmic processes.

A study on fat body cells ultrastructure in female camel tick (Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum)

The female tick’s Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum fat body consists of cell strips suspended in the haemolymph but circumference was stuck around the tracheal tranks, midgut and reproductive system. The rough endoplasmic reticulum cisternae (RER) occupies a large area in the cell cytoplasm and appears to develop quickly after ticks’ blood feeding, and lipid droplets associated with glycogen particles. Rough endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi bodies are also probably involved in protein synthesis in which they appear in the formation of vitellogenesis during the ooegenesis. Key words: Ixodid tick, fat body, Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum, transmission electron microscope (TEM).

RUNX‐1 and CD44 as markers of resident stem cell derivation in undifferentiated intimal sarcoma of pulmonary artery

To report a rare case of undifferentiated intimal sarcoma (UIS) of the pulmonary artery in a 44-year-old woman, and to study it by electron microscopy and a novel immunohistochemical (IHC) panel that recognizes markers of endothelial and haematopoietic stemness, in order to extend current knowledge about the histogenesis of this rare neoplasm. Immunohistochemical reactions for CD31, CD34, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), caldesmon, calponin, actin, desmin, epithelial membrane antigen, WT1, CD117, Ki67, nestin, RUNX-1, platelet-derived growth factor, NG2, CD44, CD90 and CD105 were performed manually or automatically. Neoplastic cells were negative for CD31 and CD34, but positive for calponin, nestin, WT1, CD44, and RUNX-1. Electron microscopy was performed after osmium tetroxide fixation and staining with lead citrate and uranyl acetate. Ultrastructurally, tumour cells had slightly irregular nuclei, cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum, and punctate intercellular junctions. We report a case of pulmonary artery UIS expressing previously unreported markers, i.e. RUNX-1, nestin, WT1, and CD44, that are commonly seen in different stages of the vascular differentiation hierarchy. These findings, together with the negativity for mature endothelial and smooth muscle markers, raise the question of whether this neoplasm may derive from a vessel wall-resident stem cell, such as the haemangioblast or an embryonic-like stem cell.

Histological study of experimental hyperprolactinemia on the prostate lateral lobe of adult albino rats

Introduction Prolactin, besides androgens, plays an important role in the regulation of prostatic function. Aim of the study This study aimed to demonstrate the influence of experimental hyperprolactinemia on the structure of the prostate lateral lobe in adult albino rats. Materials and methods Twenty healthy adult albino rats were equally divided into two groups: a control group and an experimental group. Rats of the experimental group were intraperitoneally injected with metoclopramide at a dose of 2.2mg/kg for 14 successive days to induce hyperprolactinemia. The control group was injected with saline in the same manner. Hormonal assays for serum prolactin and testosterone levels were carried out. Prostate was extirpated and the lateral lobes were processed for examination by light and electron microscopy. Epithelial height of the prostatic lateral lobes acini was determined morphometrically and analyzed statistically. Results In the experimental hyperprolactinemic group, numerous prostatic acini were lined by multiple layers of epithelial cells (hyperplasia). Acinar epithelium had different ultrastructural features. Some acini had pleomorphic nuclei, cytoplasmic vacuoles, and residual bodies. Others were packed with extensive cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum and secretory vesicles. Others had few secretory vesicles and the majority of them had centrally located flocculent material surrounded by electron-lucent zones. Some epithelial cells contained lipofuscin pigments. The prostatic epithelial lining was infiltrated by inflammatory cells. Stromal thickening was found in between some acini that was surrounded by prominent smooth muscle cells and many connective tissue cells. Hormonal assays showed increased serum prolactin and decreased testosterone as compared with the control group. The estimated and analyzed epithelial height of the prostatic acini showed a highly significant increase compared with the control group. Conclusion Hyperprolactinemia altered the morphology of epithelium and stroma of the prostate lateral lobe. It played a significant role in inducing a prostatic hyperplasia and an inflammatory response that triggered the abnormal growth of prostate.

Autophagy as the cell survival in response to a microsporidian infection of the midgut epithelium of Isohypsibius granulifer granulifer (Eutardigrada: Hypsibiidae)

AbstractThe midgut epithelial cells of many invertebrates may possess microorganisms which act as symbionts or pathogens (bacteria, microsporidia, viruses). During our previous studies on Isohypsibius granulifer granulifer Thulin, 1928 (Tardigrada, Eutardigrada), which examined alterations of the midgut epithelium during oogenesis, we found that some of the specimens were infected with microsporidia. All stages of pathogens occurred in the cytoplasm of the digestive cells in the midgut epithelium of I. g. granulifer that were infected with microsporidia: meronts, sporonts, sporoblasts, and spores. The cytoplasm of the digestive cells was rich in mitochondria, cisterns of rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER), and Golgi complexes. Autophagy in the digestive cells of the dorsal midgut was much more intensive in comparison with noninfected specimens. Membranes of phagophores surrounded the pathogens forming autophagosomes. These latter structures fused with lysosomes forming autolysosomes and residual bodies appeared. Neither glycogen granules nor droplets of varying electron density, which accumulated in digestive cells during vitellogenesis and choriogenesis, appeared in individuals with microsporidia. While the midgut epithelium in noninfected specimens takes part in vitellogenesis and choriogenesis, in infected specimens, midgut cells are involved in the process of autophagy as a survival strategy.

D469del-COMP Retention in Chondrocytes Stimulates Caspase-Independent Necroptosis

Mutations in the cartilage oligomeric matrix protein gene (COMP) cause pseudoachondroplasia (PSACH). This dysplasia results from the intracellular retention of mutant COMP protein and premature death of growth-plate chondrocytes. Toward better understanding of these underlying mechanisms, we examined D469del-COMP activation of the unfolded protein response and cell death pathways in rat chondrosarcoma cells. Using an inducible expression system, we examined the effects of D469del-COMP retention after 4 days of mRNA expression and then 5 days without inducing agent. Retention of D469del-COMP stimulated Chop (Ddit3) and Gadd34 (Ppp1r15a) and triggered reactivation of protein translation that exacerbated intracellular retention. High levels of Nox4 and endoplasmic reticulum receptor stress-inducible Ero1β generated reactive oxygen species, causing oxidative stress. Increased expression of Gadd genes and presence of γH2AX indicated that DNA damage was occurring. The presence of cleaved apoptosis inducing factor (tAIF) and the absence of activated caspases indicated that retention of D469del-COMP triggers cell death in chondrocytes by necroptosis, a caspase-independent programmed necrosis. Loss of growth-plate chondrocytes by necroptosis was also found in our pseudoachondroplasia mouse model. These results suggest a model in which D469del-COMP expression induces persistent endoplasmic reticulum stress, oxidative stress, and DNA damage, thus priming chondrocytes for necroptosis. We define for the first time the precise mechanisms underlying D469del-COMP pathology in pseudoachondroplasia and suggest that oxidative stress and AIF may be promising therapeutic targets.

Effect of acute trihexyphenidyl abuse on rat motor area of cerebral cortex

Introduction Trihexyphenidyl (THP) is an antiparkinsonian drug, most frequently abused to achieve pleasurable effects. In contrast, the effect of THP abuse on the motor area of the frontal cortex has not been adequately investigated. Aim of the work To study the histological changes of different single doses of TPH on rat motor area. Materials and methods Forty-eight adult male rats were used in this study. The rats were divided equally into four groups: a control group (group I), and three experimental groups (groups II, III, and IV) which were intraperitoneally injected with a single variable dose of TPH (0.2, 0.5, 1.0 mg/kg/body weight, respectively). After 6 h of injection, blood samples were collected for measurement of serum THP level. Specimens from the frontal cortex motor area were taken, processed, and examined by light and electron microscopes. Results By microscopic examination, the motor area of group II rat which received a TPH dose equivalent to the human therapeutic dose was nearly similar to that of the control. In group III, TPH induced apoptotic changes in the pyramidal and granular cells. Some pyramidal cells exhibited ultrastructural changes including; dilated Golgi saccules, dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum cisternae, multiple lysosomes, and cristolysis of the mitochondria. Moreover, the axons exhibited axoplasmic vacuoles and multiple splitting of the myelin lamellae. Group IV motor areas, showed multiple apoptotic cells and focal necrotic areas with microglial infiltration. Electron microscopic study revealed degenerated pyramidal cells and extravasation of red blood corpuscles. The axons showed multiple focal losses of the myelin lamellae. Conclusion TPH induced dose-dependent structural changes in rat frontal cortex motor area. Therefore, THP prescription must be under strict supervision.

The fine structure of the female reproductive system of Zorotypus caudelli Karny (Zoraptera)

The general structure of the female genital system of Zorotypus caudelli is described. The ovarioles are of the panoistic type. Due to the reduction of the envelope (tunica externa) the ovarioles are in direct contact with the hemolymph like in some other insect groups, Plecoptera included. The calices are much larger in Z. caudelli then in Zorotypus hubbardi and their epithelial cells produce large amounts of secretions, probably protecting the surface of the eggs deposited on the substrate. Eggs taken from the calyx bear a series of long fringes, which are missing in the eggs found in the ovariole, and in other zorapteran species. The long sperm of Z. caudelli and the long spermathecal duct are likely related to a sexual isolating mechanism (cryptic female choice), impeding female re-mating. The apical receptacle and the spermathecal duct - both of ectodermal origin - consist of three cell types. In addition to the cells beneath the cuticle lining the lumen, two other cell types are visible: secretory and canal cells. The cytoplasm of the former is rich in rough endoplasmic reticulum cisterns and Golgi complexes, which produce numerous discrete dense secretory bodies. These products are released into the receiving canal crossing the extracellular cavity of secretory cells, extending over a series of long microvilli. The secretion is transported towards the lumen of the apical receptacle of the spermatheca or to that of the spermathecal duct by a connecting canal formed by the canal cells. It is enriched by material produced by the slender canal cells. Before mating, the sperm cells are enveloped by a thick glycocalyx produced at the level of the male accessory glands, but it is absent when they have reached the apical receptacle, and also in the spermathecal duct lumen. It is likely removed by secretions of the spermatheca. The eggs are fertilized at the level of the common oviduct where the spermathecal duct opens. Two micropyles at the dorsal side of the equator level possibly facilitate fertilization. The presence of these two micropyles is a presumably derived feature shared with Phasmatodea. The fine structure of the female reproductive system of Z. caudelli does not allow to assess the phylogenetic position at the present stage of knowledge. The enlarged calyx and the temporary presence of long fringes on the eggs are potential autapomorphies of Z. caudelli or may indicate relationships with other Zorotypus species.

Morphological characterization of in vitro expanded human dental pulp-derived stem cells

Stem cells play pivotal role in the development of tissues and organs, as well as they maintain homeostasis and integrity of multicellular organisms. Human dental pulp-derived stem cells are capable of differentiation into osteoblasts, odontoblasts, adipocytes and neuronal-like cells and can have potential use in tissue regeneration. The aim of this study was a detailed description of human dental pulp-derived stem cells (HDPSCs) cultivated in vitro ultrastructural morphology. HDPSCs were isolated from the dental pulp of impacted third molars from healthy donors. Transmission electron microscopic analysis showed typical ultrastructural morphology similar to mesenchymal stem cells from other organs. The morphology of HDPSCs cells reflects their proteosynthetic and metabolic activity. Each cell contained spherical or irregularly-shaped large pale nucleus with a large amount of euchromatine. Nuclei had noticeable nucleolus (or two nucleoli) located nearby the nuclear envelope. Abundant cisterns of rough endoplasmic reticulum and numerous coated matrix vesicles as well as granules of glycogen were present in their cytoplasm. Nearby the nucleus small, elongated mitochondria were placed. Most of HDPSCs created and secreted vesicles; in plasmalemma bounded amorphous electron-lucide granules and also few glycogen granules. These secretory vesicles had around 0.5 μm in diameter. We assume that it can be a special type of communication between cells, probably paracrine type of cell signalling, but its real function is still unknown.

Prophylactic and therapeutic effects of taurine against aluminum-induced acute hepatotoxicity in mice

Aluminum is a well known neurotoxin and a possible candidate of hepatotoxins to humans. Using natural antioxidants against metal-induced hepatotoxicity is a modern approach. In the present study, Aluminum (AlCl 3) intoxication (a single injection of 25 mg Al 3+/kg, i.p.) for 24 h in mice resulted in elevations in serum alanine aminotransferase activity and serum tumor necrosis factor and hepatic malondialdehyde levels. Aluminum reduced the activities of glutathione peroxidase, glutathione S-transferase, quinone oxidoreductase, and catalase in liver. In addition, Al caused hepatic hemorrhage, cellular degeneration as well as necrosis of hepatocytes. Ultrastructure examination showed swelling of mitochondria, derangement of rough endoplasmic reticulum cisternae and pleomorphic nuclei with abnormal chromatin distribution. Taurine, a sulfur-containing amino acid was administered to mice daily for 5 days before (at 100 mg/kg, i.p.) or 2 h after (a single dose of 1 g/kg, i.p.) aluminum administration. Treating mice with taurine at either dosing regimens, pre- or post-aluminum administration alleviated aluminum oxidative damaging effects. The rate of recovery was better when taurine was administered prior to Al. Taurine had anaphylactic and therapeutic activity against hepatotoxicity induced by aluminum in mice.

Endosulfan Induced Ultrastructural and Biochemical Alterations in Liver of Freshwater Catfish, Clarias batrachus

The present study was undertaken to investigate the toxic effect of endosulfan (brand 'Endocel' EC 35%) on few liver function test profile and ultrastructure of liver cell in freshwater catfish, Clarias batrachus. Fish were exposed to the two concentrations of pesticide (0.004 and 0.008 ppm) for 30 days. Biochemical analysis of serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) and serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT) along with histopathological examination of liver tissues under transmission electron microscope (TEM) were done on 7, 15 and 30 days of exposure. The results showed significant (P<0.05) elevation in SGPT and SGOT during the different days of exposure. The major ultrastructural anomalies incurred in liver tissues due to endosulfan exposure were dilation of nuclear membrane, congregation of heterochromatin at the peripheral zone of inner nuclear membrane, dilated and broken array of cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum, increased vacuolation in hepatocytes etc. The extent of biochemical and histopathological anomalies were found to be duration -and dose-dependent. The result of present study demonstrates the toxic effect of endosulfan in fish at environmentally relevant concentration.

Ultrastructure of submandibular salivary glands of mouse: TEM and HRSEM observations

The fine structure of submandibular glands of mouse were analyzed using light microscopy (LM), high resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) methods. For LM, the specimens were embedded in Spurr resin, stained by toluidin blue solutions. For TEM, the tissues of submandibular salivary glands were fixed with modified Karnovsky solution and postfixed with osmium tetroxide. For HRSEM, the tissues were fixed with 2% osmium tetroxide solution in 1/15M sodium phosphate buffer (pH 7.4). The samples were immersed successively in dymethylsulphoxide and freeze cracked. The maceration was made in diluted osmium tetroxide for 24-48 h. The samples were examined by high resolution scanning electron microscopy. The intracellular components of acinar and ductal cells revealed clearly the Golgi apparatus, rough endoplasmic reticulum, secretory granules, and mitochondria. The end bulbs of Golgi lamellae and flattened cisterns of rough endoplasmic reticulum showed the luminal surface. A few mitochondria were identified intermingling between the rough endoplasmic reticulum and the mitochondriales cristae in three-dimensional HRSEM images. Secretory granules were numerous and presented different sizes. Small granules of ribosomes were attached on cistern surface, measuring 20-25 nm in diameter. Numerous arranged microvilli were found on the luminal surface of secretory canaliculus. The contact surfaces of acinar cells revealed complicated interdigitations by cytoplasmic processes. The mitochondria of duct cells were disposed vertically and surrounded by basal infoldings of plasma membranes. Basement membrane showed a spongy-like structure having an irregular surface with various strands and meshes of fine collagen fibrils.