Dilated Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum Research Articles

Characterization of cytoplasmic hyaline bodies in a hepatocellular carcinoma of a dog

This report describes the morphological and immunohistochemical features of intracytoplasmic inclusion bodies found in a 13-year-old Yorkshire dog with a hepatocellular carcinoma and referred for anorexia, lethargy and mild polydipsia. Fine-needle aspirates of the large abdominal mass revealed high number of pleomorphic neoplastic hepatocytes, containing round to polygonal, well-demarcated, hyaline bodies. Same findings were histologically confirmed on multiple biopsies. Immunohistochemically, the inclusion bodies were negative for alpha-1-antitrypsin, carcinoembryonary antigen, fibrinogen, IgG, IgM, cytokeratins 7, 8, 18, 19, 20. By transmission electron microscopy, the cytoplasmic inclusions were composed of granular homogeneous or reticulated electrondense matrix, enclosed within dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum or remnants of its membranes, consistent with proteinaceous material accumulated within neoplastic hepatocytes due to aberrant protein secretion or transport. This is the first detailed characterization of hyaline cytoplasmic inclusion bodies in canine hepatocellular carcinoma.

Histological study of hysteroscopy-guided endometrial biopsy from secondary infertile patients after removal of a copper intrauterine contraceptive device

Introduction The intrauterine device (IUD) is a long-acting reversible method of contraception. Copper T380 IUD is a copper-wrapped T-shaped IUD containing no hormones. Although the IUD has been a contraceptive method for about 50 years, the possibility of causing subsequent secondary infertility remains controversial. Aim of the work This work was conducted to study the endometrial structure in patients suffering from secondary infertility after copper IUD removal. Patients and methods Thirty secondary infertile patients aged between 20 and 35 years were classified into two groups: the control group (10 patients), with no past history of IUD insertion, and the IUD group (20 patients), with a history of copper IUD insertion for 6 months to 3 years (subgroup B1) or for more than 3 years (subgroup B2). Preovulatory hysteroscopy-guided endometrial biopsies were obtained and processed for light microscopy and transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Results Specimens from subgroup B1 showed focal loss of surface epithelium, cytoplasmic vacuolation, and small dark nuclei in surface epithelial cells. The stroma showed extravasated red blood cells, wide empty spaces, and cellular infiltration. In addition, the uterine glands of subgroup B2 appeared irregular and dilated with accumulated secretion and cellular debris as well as epithelial stratification. Ultrastructurally, focal loss, distortion and swelling of microvilli, indented nuclei, dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum, swollen mitochondria, and secondary lysosomes were observed in the surface epithelial cells. Scanning electron microscopy showed focal loss of microvilli, irregular surface, and mushroom-like protrusions in subgroup B1. These changes were more prominent in subgroup B2 with the appearance of fissures and corrugation of the surface. Conclusion Copper IUD could induce different degrees of structural changes in the endometrium, which were directly proportional to the duration of IUD insertion. These changes could explain the secondary infertility that may occur in some cases after IUD removal.

Electron Microscopy of Astrocyte Changes and Subtypes in Traumatic Human Edematous Cerebral Cortex: A Review

The astrocyte subtypes in moderate and severe human brain trauma complicated with subdural hematoma or hygroma are described. Clear and dense edematous and hypertrophic reactive astrocytes are distinguished in severe vasogenic brain edema. Swollen perineuronal astrocytes appear compressing and indenting dark, degenerated pyramidal and nonpyramidal nerve cells. Glycogen-depleted and glycogen-rich astrocytes also are seen. Reactive hypertrophic astrocytes exhibit increased amounts of dilated smooth and rough endoplasmic reticulum, microtubules, and gliofilaments. Perisynaptic astrocyte ensheathments of neuropil synaptic contacts are lost, and the perivascular astrocyte end-feet appear dissociated from the capillary basement membrane. The interastrocytary gap junctions appear fragmented.

An Investigation into Pituitary Gonadotrophic Hormone Synthesis, Secretion, Subunit Gene Expression and Cell Structure in Normal and Mutant Male Mice

To investigate brain-pituitary-gonadal inter-relationships, we have compared the effects of mutations that perturb the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in male mice. Specifically, serum and pituitary gonadotrophin concentrations, gonadotrophin gene expression, and gonadotroph structure and number were measured. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)β knockout (FSHβKO), FSH receptor knockout (FSHRKO), luteinising hormone (LH) receptor knockout (LuRKO), hypogonadal (hpg), testicular feminised (tfm) and gonadectomised mice were compared with control wild-type mice or heterozygotes. Serum levels of LH were similar in FSHβKO, FSHRKO and heterozygote males despite decreased androgen production in KO males. As expected, there was no detectable FSH in the serum or pituitary and an absence of expression of the FSHβ subunit gene in FSHβKO mice. However, there was a significant increase in expression of the common α and LHβ subunit genes in FSHRKO males. The morphology of FSHβKO and FSHRKO gonadotrophs was not significantly different from controls, except that the subpopulation of granules consisting of an electron-dense core and electron-lucent 'halo' was not observed in FSHβKO gonadotrophs and the granules were smaller in diameter. In the gonadotrophin-releasing hormone deficient hpg mouse, gonadotrophin mRNA and hormone levels were significantly lower compared to control mice and gonadotrophs were correspondingly smaller, with less abundant endoplasmic reticulum and reduced secretory granules. In LuRKO, tfm and gonadectomised mice, hyperstimulation of LHβ and FSHβ mRNA and serum protein concentrations was reflected by subcellular changes in gonadotroph morphology, including more dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum and more secretory granules distributed adjacent to the plasma membrane. In summary, major differences in pituitary content and serum concentrations of the gonadotrophins LH and FSH have been found between normal and mutant male mice. These changes are associated with changes in transcriptional activity of the gonadotrophin subunit genes and are reflected by changes in the cellular structure and secretory granule architecture within the gonadotroph cells.

Protective effect of curcumin on histopathology and ultrastructure of pancreas in the alloxan treated rats for induction of diabetes

Alloxan has been widely used to produce experimental diabetes mellitus syndrome. This study was undertaken to investigate the protective effect against alloxan-induced pancreatic damage by curcumin. Rats were divided into four groups. (1) Control group. (2) Curcumin control group. (3) Diabetic group with a single intraperitoneal injection of 100mgalloxan/kgb.wt. (4) Diabetic group treated with curcumin orally at a dose of 60mg/kgb.wt dissolved in distilled water. Blood samples were collected for the detection of serum glucose levels. The pancreas was prepared for histopathological, immunohistochemical stain using anti-insulin antibody and ultrastructural studies. The electron microscopic examination of diabetic pancreas showed marked changes in pancreatic acini represented by dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum, decrease of secretory granules, cytoplasmic vacuolation and irregular contours of nuclei. β-Cells showed fusion of some granules, obvious vacuolation and pyknotic nuclei. α Cells revealed focal necrosis and vacuolation, dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum and depletion of secretory granules. Curcumin improved the histopathology and ultrastructure changes of the islets, alpha cells and exocrine acini, which nearly reverted to their normal structure. It increased insulin immunoreactivity and decreased the elevated glucose concentrations.

Lycopene reduces deltamethrin effects induced thyroid toxicity and DNA damage in albino rats

Deltamethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid widely used as the insecticide of choice in most countries because of its high activity against a broad spectrum of insect pests. This experimental study aimed to evaluate the histopathological and ultrastructural changes in the thyroid caused by deltamethrin, also to further evaluate the potential genotoxic activity of deltamethrin and the possible protective effect of lycopene. The study was performed on 32 mature male albino rats which were randomly divided into four groups as follows: 1- control group; 2- lycopene group; 3- deltamethrin group; and 4- deltamethrin+lycopene group. The animals were sacrificed and tissue samples taken from the thyroid were processed for both light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Light microscopic examination of the deltamethrin group revealed hyperemia, vacuolization in the lining epithelium, and detached and desquamated follicular cells in the follicular lumen. Ultrastructural examination showed vacuolated cytoplasm, numerous lysosomes, cellular debris, dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum and pyknotic nuclei. Lycopene supplementation reduced the thyroid cellular changes. Electron microscopic study supports the histopathological study, where the cytoplasm had nearly normal rough endoplasmic reticulum except for the presence of some vacuoles. Moreover, lycopene reduced the DNA damage of thyroid cells as observed from the significant decrease in the comet assay (tail length and damaged DNA%). All these results suggest the efficacy of lycopene in amelioration of thyroid gland structures as well as DNA damage which may result from its antioxidant properties.

Ultrastructural responses and oxidative stress induced by cypermethrin in the liver of Labeo rohita

The present study was conducted to establish the relationship between selected oxidative stress parameters and ultrastructural responses in liver tissue of Labeo rohita fingerlings exposed to cypermethrin. Fish were exposed to lethal (4.0 μg L−1) and sublethal (0.4 μg L−1) concentrations of cypermethrin for a period of 24, 48, 72 and 96 h for acute studies and 1, 5, 10 and 15 days for subacute studies, respectively. Results showed increased catalase (CAT) and protease activity, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyls and free amino acid (FAA) levels at both concentrations. This suggests participation of free-radical-induced oxidative cell injury in mediating the hepatotoxicity of cypermethrin. In corroboration of this, ultrastructural lesions witnessed a reduction in the number of cell organelles, swollen, vacuolated and condensed mitochondria, dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum, and reduced numbers of smooth enodplasmic reticulum, peroxisomes and lysosomes at the lethal (4.0 μg L−1) concentration. At the sublethal (0.4 μg L−1) concentration, cytoplasmic vacuolation, condensed, vacuolated and swollen mitochondria, dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum and an absence of hepatocyte microvilli were prominent. Ultrastructural changes were exhibited as subcellular responses due to the imbalance in cellular oxidative status by means of oxidative damage.

L450W and Q455KCol8a2Knock-In Mouse Models of Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy Show Distinct Phenotypes and Evidence for Altered Autophagy

We compared the cellular phenotypes and studied the role of autophagy in the pathogenesis of Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) using two α2 collagen VIII (Col8a2) knock-in mouse models and human FECD tissues. In vivo corneal endothelial cell (CEC) counts and morphology were analyzed by clinical confocal microscopy. Ultrastructural analysis of CECs was performed by transmission electron microscopy. Real-time PCR and Western blotting were performed using total RNA, and protein extracted from mouse CECs and human CECs obtained from FECD and autopsy patients. Both Col8a2 mouse models exhibited hallmarks of FECD; however, the Col8a2(L450W/L450W) mice exhibited a milder phenotype compared to the Col8a2(Q455K/Q455K) mice. Both models exhibited upregulation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) as evidenced by dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER), and upregulation of UPR-associated genes and proteins. Real-time PCR of Col8a2(L450W/L450W) and Col8a2(Q455K/Q455K) CECs at 40 weeks revealed a 2.1-fold (P < 0.05) and a 5.2-fold (P < 0.01) upregulation of the autophagy marker Dram1, respectively. Real-time PCR of human FECD endothelium revealed a 10.4-fold upregulation of DRAM1 (P < 0.0001) compared to autopsy controls. The Col8a2(L450W/L450W) and Col8a2(Q455K/Q455K) mouse models of FECD showed distinct endothelial cell phenotypes. Dram1 was associated with activation of the UPR and increased autophagy. Overexpression of this gene in mouse and human FECD endothelial cells suggested a role for altered autophagy in this disease.

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.

Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome, vascular type: A novel missense mutation in the COL3A1 gene

We report a 34-year-old Japanese female with the vascular type of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. She had thin translucent skin, extensive bruising, toe joint hypermobility, left lower extremity varicose veins, and chronic wrist, knee and ankle joint pain. She also had dizziness caused by autonomic dysfunction. Magnetic resonance angiography showed tortuous vertebral and basilar arteries, mild left carotid canal bulging, and right anterior tibial artery hypoplasia. Electron microscopic examinations of a skin biopsy revealed extremely dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum in dermal fibroblasts and wide variability of individual collagen fibril diameters. A molecular analysis using a conventional total RNA method and a high-resolution melting curve analysis using genomic DNA revealed a novel missense mutation within exon 48 of the COL3A1 gene, c.3428G>A, leading to p.Gly1143Glu.

Effect of Trichlorfon on Hepatic Lipid Accumulation in Crucian Carp Carassius auratus gibelio

This study evaluated the toxic effects of the organophosphate pesticide trichlorfon on hepatic lipid accumulation in crucian carp Carassius auratus gibelio. Seventy-five fish were divided into five groups (each group in triplicate), and then exposed to 0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 mg/L of trichlorfon and fed with commercial feed for 30 d. At the end of the experiment, plasma and hepatic lipid metabolic biochemical status were analyzed. Triglyceride contents were significantly (P < 0.05) increased in liver but decreased in plasma after 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 mg/L trichlorfon treatments. Plasma insulin contents were markedly (P < 0.05) increased when trichlorfon concentrations were 0.5, 1.0, and 4.0 mg/L. There were no significant differences in hepatic hormone-sensitive lipase contents between the trichlorfon-treated fish and the controls. Hepatic cyclic adenosine 3′, 5′-monophosphate, very-low-density lipoprotein, and apolipoprotein B100 contents were decreased in the fish when trichlorfon concentration was 2.0 mg/L. Furthermore, electron microscope observations showed rough endoplasmic reticulum dilatation and mitochondrial vacuolization in hepatocytes with trichlorfon exposure. On the basis of morphological and physiological evidence, trichlorfon influenced crucian carp hepatic pathways of lipid metabolism and hepatocellular ultrastructure, which resulted in lipid accumulation in the liver.

Qualitative study of young, adult, and aged wistar rats temporomandibular synovial membrane employing light, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy

The aim of this study was to analyze the rat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) synovial membrane at different ages using light, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy. Under light microscopic analysis, the TMJ structures were observed such as condyle, capsule, disk, the synovial membrane collagen type, and cells distribution. In the scanning electron microscopy, the synovial membrane surface exhibited a smooth aspect in young animals and there was an increase with ageing in the number of folds. The transmission electron microscopic analysis showed more synoviocytes in the synovial layer in the young group and still a great number of vesicles and cisterns dilation of rough endoplasmic reticulum in the aged group. In the three groups, a dense layer of collagen fibers in the synovial layer and cytoplasmic extensions were clearly seen. It was possible to conclude that synovial membrane structures in aged group showed alterations contributing to the decrease in joint lubrication and in the sliding between disk and joint surfaces. These characteristic will reflect in biomechanics of chewing, and may cause the TMJ disorders, currently observed in clinical processes.

Transmission and scanning electron microscopy study of the characteristics and morphology of pericytes and novel desmin-immunopositive perivascular cells before and after castration in rat anterior pituitary gland

Pericytes are perivascular cells associated with microcirculation. Typically, they are localized close to the capillary wall, underneath the basement membrane, and have sparse cytoplasm and poorly developed cell organelles. However, the specific properties of pericytes vary by organ and the conditions within organs. We recently demonstrated that pericytes in rat anterior pituitary gland produce type I and III collagens. The present study attempted to determine the morphological characteristics of these pituitary pericytes. Castrated rats were used as a model of hormonal and vascular changes in the gland. Pericytes, as determined by desmin immunohistochemistry, were more numerous and stained more intensely in castrated rats. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that pituitary pericytes displayed the typical characteristics of pericytes. In pituitary sections from castrated rats, the Golgi apparatus of pericytes was well developed and the rough endoplasmic reticulum was elongated. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy revealed four pericyte shapes: oval, elongate, triangular, and multiangular. As compared with normal rats, the proportion of oval pericytes was lower, and the proportions of the other three shapes were higher, in castrated rats. These results suggest that pericytes change their fine structure and cell shape in response to hormonal and vascular changes in the anterior pituitary gland. In addition, a novel type of perivascular cell was found by desmin immunoelectron microscopy. The morphological properties of these cells were dissimilar to those of pericytes. The cells were localized in the perivascular space, had no basement membrane, and contained dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum. This new cell type will require further study of its origin and characteristics.

Role of 5-azacytidine in the differentiation of rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells into cardiomyogenic cells

Introduction Increasing attention is being paid to the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for treatment of human diseases such as myocardial infarction. Aim To study the differentiation of the bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) into cardiomyogenic cells using 5-azacytidine. Materials and Methods Forty adult male albino rats were used in this study. BM-MSCs were isolated and cultured in a complete Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium containing 1% antibiotics and 10% fetal bovine serum (the control group). Second passaged cells were treated with 10μmol/l 5-azacytidine for 72h. Then, the medium was removed and kept in a 5-azacytidine-free medium for 4 weeks (the 5-azacytidine-treated group). The adherent cells of both groups were examined using a phase-contrast microscope and a transmission electron microscope. Expressions of cytoskeleton protein desmin and cardiac muscle-specific cardiac troponin T were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Results BM-MSCs of the control group were spindle and star shaped with multiple processes and vesicular nuclei. After adding 5-azacytidine for 1 week, the cells showed multinucleation. On the second week, the cells formed stick-like structures. The cells showed extensive cytoplasmic striations in the third week. Finally, in the fourth week, the cells formed myotube-like structures. Immunohistochemical staining of cells of the 5-azacytidine-treated group revealed a positive immune reaction for desmin and cardiac troponin-T. Ultrastructural examination of the 5-azacytidine-treated group revealed that the cells were elongated with central oval large nuclei. The mitochondria were elongated with well developed cristae. There were abundant free ribosomes and extensive dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum. Myofibrils started to appear in the peripheral part of the cytoplasm and T-tubules appeared. Conclusion MSCs can be differentiated in vitro by 5-azacytidine into cardiomyogenic cells, which are important for repairing infracted myocardium.

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 effects of experimental aflatoxicosis on the pancreas of adult male albino rats and the role of ginger supplementation

Introduction Aflatoxin contamination of foods is a worldwide problem, especially in developing countries. Ginger has antioxidant properties. Aim of the study To study the histological and biochemical changes in the pancreas of rats with experimental aflatoxicosis, and to evaluate the role of ginger supplementation. Materials and methods Forty-five adult male albino rats were equally divided into three groups. Group I that served as the control group. Group II that received 250 μg/kg body weight/day of aflatoxin B1 dissolved in olive oil using a gastric tube for 5 days/week for 4 weeks. Group III that received both aflatoxin as in group II and 400 mg/kg body weight/day of ginger orally for 5 days/week for 4 weeks. At the end of the experiment, all rats were anesthetized, and their pancreases were extirpated and divided into two parts to be processed for light and electron microscopic examinations. Morphometrical analysis for area percentage of collagen fibers and biochemical analysis for glucose, insulin, and serum amylase were performed and statistically analyzed. Results Examination of group II revealed thick interlobular septa that contained congested blood vessels, cellular infiltration, mast, and fat cells. Pancreatic acinar cells showed decreased secretory granules, vacuolization, and dilated fragmented rough endoplasmic reticulum. Few acinar cells showed rarified areas of cytoplasm. Some acinar cells had small condensed heterochromatic nuclei. Most of the islets of Langerhans were formed of cells separated by dilated congested capillaries. Most of the nuclei of β cells were euchromatic, whereas some were small heterochromatic. The cytoplasm of β cells had a variety of secretory granules. Most of them had an electron-dense core and an electron-lucent halo, whereas others had homogenous moderate density. Some granules coalesced. A few cells had cytoplasmic areas depleted of granules. Pancreatic ducts were dilated. Examination of group III revealed that pancreatic lobules were separated by thin interlobular septa. Acini had numerous apical acidophilic secretory granules, a few vacuoles, and basal euchromatic nuclei. Beta cells of the islets of Langerhans had euchromatic nuclei and numerous secretory granules with an electron-dense core and a wide electron-lucent halo. Biochemical analysis of glucose and serum amylase showed a highly significant increase, whereas that of insulin showed a highly significant decrease, in group II in comparison with group I. The glucose and serum amylase levels were significantly decreased, whereas the insulin level was significantly increased in group III compared with group II. Conclusion Aflatoxin had a deleterious effect on the histological structure of the rats' pancreas, and ginger minimized these effects.

Ultrastructural alterations in the ventricular myocardium of the adult italian newt ( Lissotriton italicus) following exposure to nonylphenol ethoxylate

Nonylphenols ethoxylates (NPEs) are surface active agents (surfactants) commonly used in cleaning products, in industrial processes, agricultural formulations and paints. They are found in sewage, municipal wastewaters and industrial effluents, and as contaminants in water bodies. Accumulating data suggest that exposure to NPEs can adversely affects functional properties of the neurologic, reproductive, immune, and endocrine systems. In order to examine whether NPEs exert similar damaging effects on the cardiovascular system, we used an amphibian model to examine the ultrastructural alterations of the ventricular myocardium following exposure to NPEs. Adult Lissotriton italicus in the aquatic phase were exposed to NPE10 (100 μg/L, ppb) for 96 h. Heart specimens were collected from a total of 10 individuals and processed for scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Our ultrastructural examinations demonstrated that amphibian ventricle is susceptible to the effects of NPEs. The most pronounced alterations were observed in the membrane compartments of both myocardial and endothelial cells as demonstrated by the presence of swollen mitochondria with disrupted cristae and dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum. We suggest that destabilization of the lipid milieu within membranes might represent one of the potential mechanisms by which NPEs exert their toxic effects on amphibian heart.

The prenatal effects of mobile microwave radiation on mice

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the histopathological and ultrastructural prenatal effects of mobile phone microwave radiation on mice liver. Materials and methods Pregnant mice were divided into three groups of 10 animals each. Group one (G1) was the control group with mice unexposed to mobile phone. Group two (G2) mice were exposed for half-hour every day during the gestational period with the cell phone in answering state. Group three (G3) mice were exposed during the gestational period for 1 h every day with the cell phone in answering state and for 12 h while the cell phone was in standby state. The microwave radiation produced by mobile phones operated at a microwave frequency range of 900–1800 MHz. Mice fetuses were examined and then killed with an overdose of ether. Liver biopsies were prepared for histopathological and ultrastructural examinations. Results The mean body weight and length of fetuses of G3 showed a statistically significant decrease compared with G1 (P<0.05). Congestion of the central vein and dilation of hepatic blood sinusoids were the most frequent histopathological findings. The ultrastructural results were apparent in G3 in the form of dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum, loss of mitochondrial cristae and pleomorphic mitochondria, mitochondrial swelling and fragmentation, hepatocytic vaculations, nuclear inclusions, and inflammatory cell infiltration in the periportal areas, of mainly lymphocytes. The results of this study showed a significant reduction in the average body weight and length of fetuses of G2 and G3. Conclusion The ultrastructural damage observed in the examined specimens shows the hepatocellular injuries and consequent systemic impairment of body functions.

Histological and immunohistochemical study of the effect of orlistat on the exocrine pancreas of adult female albino rat

Introduction Orlistat is considered to be a safe and effective drug to treat obesity by decreasing the absorption of digested fat. However, many cases of orlistat-induced pancreatitis were reported. Aim of the study This study was carried out to study the effect of orlistat on the histological structure of the exocrine part of the pancreas, and to evaluate the possibility of recovery after its withdrawal. Materials and methods Forty-eight adult female albino rats were divided into; group I (control), group II (each animal received 32 mg orlistat orally once daily for 8 weeks) and group III (recovery), which received the same dose of orlistat and was left without any treatment for another 8 weeks. The pancreas from each animal was dissected out and processed for histological (light microscopic and electron microscopic) study. The result of immunohistochemical (inducible nitric oxide synthase) stain was statically analyzed. Results Sections of orlistat-treated rats showed variable disturbance of normal architecture of the pancreatic acini, congestion of blood vessels, and widening of the spaces between the acini. The acinar cells showed vacuolation of their cytoplasm. Immunostaining of inducible nitric oxide synthase revealed significant increase in the reaction in group II. Ultrastructure examination showed dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum, destroyed mitochondria, and dissolution of zymogene granules in some acinar cells. These findings were improved after stoppage of the drug. Conclusion Orlistat has a harmful effect on pancreatic acini. Thus, it must be taken under medical observation.

Immunolocalization of Lipoxygenase in the Anther Wall Cells of Lathyrus undulatus Boiss. during Programmed Cell Death

Lipoxygenase catalyzes oxygenation of long chain fatty acids to hydroperoxides and is involved in the degradation of membranes occuring in some types of programmed cell death (PCD). The localization of lipoxygenase in the anther wall layers of L. undulatus during cellular degradation was analyzed by immunogold labeling technique at young and vacuolated pollen stage, due to the close relation between lipoxygenase activity and membrane degradation in programmed cell death. Immunoreaction to lipoxygenase was monitored slightly at young pollen stage in the anther wall cells. As programmed cell death signals progress, lipoxygenase revealed in anther wall cells intensely. At vacuolated pollen stage tapetal cells came forward with ultrastructural changes such as cell, organelle and membrane disintegration. At the indicated stage immunogold particles indicating sites of LOX PAb-binding epitopes were located in the nucleus (chromatin was condensed and lined at the periphery), cytoplasm and close to long dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) cisterna. In conclusion lipoxygenase increase which has a role in the membrane degeneration, possibly induced the collapse of tonoplast, nuclear and plasma membrane and triggered programmed cell death in the tapetal cells of L. undulatus as well as the other wall cells.