Histochemical Research Articles

Histological methods for plant tissues

ABSTRACT Although many of the structures and organelles of vegetative cells are comparable to those of animal tissues, significant differences between the two kingdoms require modifications in histological techniques for both tissue processing steps and histochemical staining techniques. The authors investigated the challenges of working with plant tissues by collecting various flora to represent the four main plant organs: leaf, stem, root, and flower/fruit. Triplicate samples for each specimen were placed into formalin for paraffin embedding, placed into formalin for later frozen sections, and used fresh to undergo immediate frozen sectioning. Frozen sections of plant tissues were more difficult to obtain than formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) sections, exhibited tissue loss during staining, and were inferior morphologically to FFPE sections. Although, historically, plant tissue fixation and processing has employed several different reagents compared with those used in animal tissue processing and took significantly longer times, the current investigation determined reagents and protocols from a modern histology laboratory which processes mammalian tissues can be applied to plant tissue processing with only slight modifications in respect to reagent timing. Additionally, staining techniques were compared and while it is well known that plant cell walls stain well with safranin O, the current investigation determined the uptake of safranin O can be accelerated by incubating at 60°C.

Low-dose orthotopic cancer implantation permits measurement of longitudinal functional changes associated with cachexia.

Progressive functional decline is a key element of cancer-associated cachexia. Major barriers to translating preclinical therapies into the clinic include lack of cancer models that accurately mimic functional decline, which develops over time, and use of nonspecific measures, like grip strength, as surrogates for physical function. In this study, we aimed to extend the survival and longevity of a cancer model, to investigate cachexia-related function at the basic science level. Survival extension studies were performed by testing multiple cell lines, dilutions, and vehicle-types in orthotopic implantation of K-rasLSL.G12D/+; Trp53R172H/+; Pdx-1-Cre (KPC)-derived cells. One hundred twenty-eight animals in this new model were assessed for cachexia syndrome phenotype using a battery of anatomical, biochemical, and behavioral techniques. We extended the survival of the KPC orthotopic model to 8-9 wk postimplantation using a relatively low 100-cell dose of DT10022 KPC cells (P < 0.001). In this low-dose orthotopic (LO) model, progressive muscle wasting was detected in parallel to systemic inflammation; skeletal muscle atrophy at the fiber level was detected as early as 3 wk postimplantation compared with controls (P < 0.001). Gait speed in LO animals declined as early as 2 wk postimplantation, whereas grip strength change was a late event. Principal component and regression analyses revealed distinct cachectic and noncachectic animal populations, which we leveraged to show that the gait speed decline was specific to cachexia (P < 0.01), whereas grip strength decline was not (P = 0.19). Gait speed represents an accurate surrogate for cachexia-related physical function as opposed to grip strength.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Previous studies of cancer-induced cachexia have been confounded by the relatively rapid death of animal subjects. Using a lower dose of cancer cells in combination with a battery of behavioral, structural, histological, and biochemical techniques, we show that gait speed is actually the best indicator of functional decline due to cachexia. Future studies are required to define the underlying physiological basis of these findings.

Clinical characteristics and mortality of mucormycosis in hematological malignancies: a retrospective study in Eastern China

BackgroundMucormycosis is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with hematological malignancies, but its characteristics are not fully understood. This study aimed to gain a better understanding of the clinical features of mucormycosis in patients with hematological malignancies in eastern China.MethodsA single-center retrospective analysis was conducted on the demographic profile, microbiology, management, and 90-day mortality of mucormycosis patients with hematological malignancies between 2018 and 2023.ResultsA total of 50 cases were included in the study, consisting of 11 proven and 39 probable cases of mucormycosis. The median age of the patients was 39.98 ± 18.52 years, with 52% being male. Among the cases, 46% had acute myeloid leukemia (AML), 16% had acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and 16% had myelodysplastic syndrome. The most common manifestations of mucormycosis were pulmonary (80%), disseminated (16%), and rhinocerebral (4%). The diagnosis was confirmed through histology, culture, microscopy, and molecular diagnostic techniques. The most commonly identified fungal species were Cunninghamella (40%), Rhizopus (26%), and Rhizomucor (22%). Treatment involved antifungals in 84% of cases and surgery in 10% of cases. The 90-day mortality rate was 76%. Logistic regression analysis revealed that treatment with amphotericin B and surgery was associated with improved survival, while neutropenia and administration of voriconazole prior to diagnosis was associated with higher mortality.ConclusionsMucormycosis continues to have a high mortality rate in patients with hematological malignancies. Early diagnosis using various techniques, including molecular biology, along with the appropriate use of amphotericin B and surgery when possible, is vital for the successful treatment of mucormycosis.

Detection, Isolation and Quantification of Myocardial Infarct with Four Different Histological Staining Techniques.

Precise quantification of myocardial infarction is crucial for evaluating the therapeutic strategies. We developed a robust, color-based semi-automatic algorithm capable of infarct region detection, isolation and quantification with four different histological staining techniques, and the isolation and quantification of diffuse fibrosis in the heart. Our method is developed based on the color difference in the infarct and non-infarct regions after histological staining. Mouse cardiac tissues stained with Masson's trichrome (MTS), hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), 2,3,5-Triphenyltetrazolium chloride and picrosirius red were included to demonstrate the performance of our method. We demonstrate that our algorithm can effectively identify and produce a clear visualization of infarct tissue for the four staining techniques. Notably, the infarct region on a H&E-stained tissue section can be clearly visualized after processing. The MATLAB-based program we developed holds promise in the infarct quantification. Additionally, our program can isolate and quantify the diffuse fibrotic elements from an MTS-stained cardiac section, which suggested the algorithm's potential for evaluating pathological cardiac fibrosis in diseased cardiac tissues. In conclusion, we demonstrate that this color-based algorithm is capable of accurately identifying, isolating and quantifying cardiac infarct regions with different staining techniques, as well as the diffuse and patchy fibrosis in MTS-stained cardiac tissues.

Citrus Flavanone Effects on the Nrf2-Keap1/GSK3/NF-κB/NLRP3 Regulation and Corticotroph-Stress Hormone Loop in the Old Pituitary.

Oxidative stress and inflammation are significant causes of aging. At the same time, citrus flavanones, naringenin (NAR), and hesperetin (HES) are bioactives with proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Nevertheless, there are still no data about flavanone's influence and its potential effects on the healthy aging process and improving pituitary functioning. Thus, using qPCR, immunoblot, histological techniques, and biochemical assays, our study aimed to elucidate how citrus flavanones (15 mg/kg b.m. per os) affect antioxidant defense, inflammation, and stress hormone output in the old rat model. Our results showed that HES restores the redox environment in the pituitary by down-regulating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) protein while increasing kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), thioredoxin reductase (TrxR1), and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) protein expression. Immunofluorescent analysis confirmed Nrf2 and Keap1 down- and up-regulation, respectively. Supplementation with NAR increased Keap1, Trxr1, glutathione peroxidase (Gpx), and glutathione reductase (Gr) mRNA expression. Decreased oxidative stress aligned with NLRP3 decrement after both flavanones and glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3) only after HES. The signal intensity of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) cells did not change, while corticosterone levels in serum decreased after both flavanones. HES showed higher potential than NAR in affecting a redox environment without increasing the inflammatory response, while a decrease in corticosterone level has a solid link to longevity. Our findings suggest that HES could improve and facilitate redox and inflammatory dysregulation in the rat's old pituitary.

Effects of Tibetan Sheep-Derived Compound Probiotics on Growth Performance, Immune Function, Intestinal Tissue Morphology, and Intestinal Microbiota in Mice.

Probiotics play an important role in animal growth, immunity, and gut microbial balance and are now widely used in agriculture, food, and medicine. This study analysed the effects of different concentrations of Tibetan sheep compound probiotics on the immunity, tissue morphology, and intestinal microbiota of mice using histological, molecular, and 16S rRNA techniques. The results showed that the composite probiotics sourced from Tibetan sheep improved the growth performance of mice, increased the length of small intestinal villi and mucosal thickness, and enhanced the intestinal barrier function of mice. DZ-L and DZ-M significantly increased the mRNA expression levels of ZO-1, Occludin, and Claudin-1 mRNA. They also up-regulated IL-10 and TNF-β, and down-regulated TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-8. The immune function of mice was enhanced, with DZ-M treatment having an extremely significant effect, while the effect of DZ-H treatment was slightly lower compared to DZ-L and DZ-M. In addition, the composition and diversity of the intestinal microbiota were modulated, and at the phylum level, the relative abundance of Firmicutes was higher in the DZ-M group, the relative abundance of Desulfobacterota, Actinobacteriota, and Patescibacteria was reduced in the probiotic complex group, and the relative abundance of Verrucomicrobiota was higher. At the genus level, the relative abundance of Muribaculaceae was higher in the DZ-L and DZ-M groups, and the relative abundance of Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group in the DZ-H group; and the relative abundance of Bacteroides and Roseburia in the composite probiotic group. This study can improve the reference for the development of new green feed additives instead of antibiotics, which will also further promote the development of the livestock industry.

Decalcification-free technique on the analysis of dental pulp tissue: histological and immunohistochemical analysis.

Histological techniques are essential for the microscopic study and investigation of the human dental pulp. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of decalcification-free technique by examining dental pulp morphology by histological staining with haematoxylin and eosin and immunohistochemistry. The sample consisted of 30 healthy third molars extracted for orthodontic indication, the pulp tissue was obtained by removing the mineralized tissues, separating the enamel and dentine and by marking with a flexible diamond disc on the coronal surface and longitudinal axis of the root. These guides made it possible to separate the fragments and obtain the pulp tissue for fixation and staining with H&E and subsequent immunohistochemistry with CD34 and S-100 antibodies. The technique showed preservation of pulp morphology with adequate preservation of microscopic structures. No alterations in tissue viability were observed. The staining allowed an accurate assessment of vascular and nervous components by means of CD34 and S-100 markers, respectively. This technique allows preservation of pulp tissue, maintaining viable tissue for histological analysis and immunohistochemistry tests, as well as reducing sample processing time.

In-depth histological, lectin-histochemical, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural description of the olfactory rosettes and olfactory bulbs of turbot (Scophthalmus maximus).

Chemical communication through olfaction is crucial for fish behaviours, mediating in socio-sexual behaviours as reproduction. Turbot, a flatfish with significant aquaculture production, possesses a well-developed olfactory system from early developmental stages. After metamorphosis, flatfish acquire their characteristic bilateral asymmetry with an ocular side facing the open water column, housing the dorsal olfactory rosette, and a blind side in contact with the sea bottom where the ventral rosette is located. This study aimed to address the existing gap in specific histological, ultrastructural, lectin-histochemical and immunohistochemical studies of the turbot olfactory rosettes and olfactory bulbs. We examined microdissected olfactory organs of adult turbots and premetamorphic larvae by using routine histological staining techniques, and a wide array of lectins and primary antibodies against G-proteins and calcium-binding proteins. We observed no discernible structural variations in the olfactory epithelium between rosettes, except for the dorsal rosette being larger in size compared to the ventral rosette. Additionally, the use of transmission electron microscopy significantly improved the characterization of the adult olfactory epithelium, exhibiting high cell density, small cell size, and a wide diversity of cell types. Moreover, specific immunopositivity in sensory and non-sensory cells provided us of essential information regarding their olfactory roles. The results obtained significantly enriched the scarce morphological and neurochemical information available on the turbot olfactory system, revealing a highly complex olfactory epithelium with distinct features compared to other teleost species, especially with regard to olfactory cell distribution and immunolabelling patterns.

Unveiling the Secrets of Oil Palm Genetics: A Look into Omics Research.

Oil palm is a versatile oil crop with numerous applications. Significant progress has been made in applying histological techniques in oil palm research in recent years. Whole genome sequencing of oil palm has been carried out to explain the function and structure of the order genome, facilitating the development of molecular markers and the construction of genetic maps, which are crucial for studying important traits and genetic resources in oil palm. Transcriptomics provides a powerful tool for studying various aspects of plant biology, including abiotic and biotic stresses, fatty acid composition and accumulation, and sexual reproduction, while proteomics and metabolomics provide opportunities to study lipid synthesis and stress responses, regulate fatty acid composition based on different gene and metabolite levels, elucidate the physiological mechanisms in response to abiotic stresses, and explain intriguing biological processes in oil palm. This paper summarizes the current status of oil palm research from a multi-omics perspective and hopes to provide a reference for further in-depth research on oil palm.

Protective Effects of Carvacrol on Mercuric Chloride-Induced Lung Toxicity Through Modulating Oxidative Stress, Apoptosis, Inflammation, and Autophagy.

Mercuric chloride (HgCl2) is extremely toxic to both humans and animals. It could be absorbed via ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact. Exposure to HgCl2 can cause severe health effects, including damages to the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and central nervous systems. The purpose of this work was to explore if carvacrol (CRV) could protect rats lungs from damage caused by HgCl2. Intraperitoneal injections of HgCl2 at a dose of 1.23 mg/kg body weight were given either alone or in conjunction with oral CRV administration at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg body weight for 7 days. The study included biochemical and histological techniques to examine the lung tissue's oxidative stress, apoptosis, inflammation, and autophagy processes. HgCl2-induced reductions in GSH levels and antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GPx) activity were enhanced by CRV co-administration. Furthermore, MDA levels were lowered by CRV. The inflammatory mediators NF-κB, IκB, NLRP3, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL6, COX-2, and iNOS were all reduced by CRV. When exposed to HgCl2, the levels of apoptotic Bax, caspase-3, Apaf1, p53, caspase-6, and caspase-9 increased, but the levels of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 reduced after CRV treatment. CRV decreased levels of Beclin-1, LC3A, and LC3B, which in turn decreased HgCl2-induced autophagy damage. After HgCl2 treatment, higher pathological damage was observed in terms of alveolar septal thickening, congestion, edema, and inflammatory cell infiltration compared to the control group while CRV ameliorated these effects. Consequently, by preventing HgCl2-induced increases in oxidative stress and the corresponding inflammation, autophagy, apoptosis, and disturbance of tissue integrity in lung tissues, CRV might be seen as a useful therapeutic alternative.

The mechanism of different skin color formation in pufferfish: A case study on white and black individuals (Takifugu fasciatus)

Skin color is a crucial economic trait for commercial fishes. Recently, excluding wild-type grayish black alternations, pufferfish (Takifugu fasciatus) with white and black colors were observed in China. The molecular mechanism underlying these fascinating skin color differences is still unknown. We examined T. fasciatus individuals with three different skin colors, namely, control (C), white (W), and black (B), utilizing histology, proteomics, metabolomics, and Western blotting techniques. Histological observations revealed that melanin content plays a pivotal role in determining skin color. Proteomics analysis comparing control and black individuals revealed significant enrichment of melanin-related proteins, including phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (Pi3k), solute carrier family 2 (Slc27a), dual specificity phosphatase (Dusp), and Wnt8a. Similarly, compared to controls, white individuals exhibited significant enrichment of Ellis-van-Creveld syndrome protein 1 (Evc), smoothened (Smo). A total of 11 proteins that were linearly correlated with changes in melanin content were identified, and 4 proteins, namely, Wnt8a, Slc27a, Mucin-2 (Muc2), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (Ggt5), were selected for validation via Western blotting. Metabolomic analysis revealed strong correlations between L-tyrosine, 4-N-methyltransferase, indole-3-acetate salt, L-phenylalanine, L-threonine, L-glutamic acid, indole, and skin color formation in T. fasciatus. Notably, joint proteomic and metabolomic analyses revealed significant enrichment of ABC transporters across all three skin colors of T. fasciatus. Additionally, we identified 25 differentially expressed metabolites, suggesting potential feed additives such as adrenosterone and 1-(3-ethyl-2,4-dihydroxy-6-methoxyphenyl) butan-1-one for adjusting skin color. This research enhances our understanding of fish skin color formation mechanisms and provides valuable insights for cultivating fish with specific skin colors.

Defective thyroid hormone transport to the brain leads to astroglial alterations

Allan-Herndon-Dudley syndrome (AHDS) is a rare X-linked disorder that causes severe neurological damage, for which there is no effective treatment. AHDS is due to inactivating mutations in the thyroid hormone transporter MCT8 that impair the entry of thyroid hormones into the brain, resulting in cerebral hypothyroidism. However, the pathophysiology of AHDS is still not fully understood and this is essential to develop therapeutic strategies. Based on evidence suggesting that thyroid hormone deficit leads to alterations in astroglial cells, including gliosis, in this work, we have evaluated astroglial impairments in MCT8 deficiency by means of magnetic resonance imaging, histological, ultrastructural, and immunohistochemical techniques, and by mining available RNA sequencing outputs. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) imaging values obtained from magnetic resonance imaging showed changes indicative of alterations in brain cytoarchitecture in MCT8-deficient patients (n = 11) compared to control subjects (n = 11). Astroglial alterations were confirmed by immunohistochemistry against astroglial markers in autopsy brain samples of an 11-year-old and a 30th gestational week MCT8-deficient subjects in comparison to brain samples from control subjects at similar ages. These findings were validated and further explored in a mouse model of AHDS. Our findings confirm changes in all the astroglial populations of the cerebral cortex in MCT8 deficiency that impact astrocytic metabolic and mitochondrial cellular respiration functions. These impairments arise early in brain development and persist at adult stages, revealing an abnormal distribution, density, morphology of cortical astrocytes, along with altered transcriptome, compatible with an astrogliosis-like phenotype at adult stages. We conclude that astrocytes are potential novel therapeutic targets in AHDS, and we propose ADC imaging as a tool to monitor the progression of neurological impairments and potential effects of treatments in MCT8 deficiency.

An overview of multi-omics technologies in rheumatoid arthritis: applications in biomarker and pathway discovery.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease with a complex pathological mechanism involving autoimmune response, local inflammation and bone destruction. Metabolic pathways play an important role in immune-related diseases and their immune responses. The pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis may be related to its metabolic dysregulation. Moreover, histological techniques, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics, provide powerful tools for comprehensive analysis of molecular changes in biological systems. The present study explores the molecular and metabolic mechanisms of RA, emphasizing the central role of metabolic dysregulation in the RA disease process and highlighting the complexity of metabolic pathways, particularly metabolic remodeling in synovial tissues and its association with cytokine-mediated inflammation. This paper reveals the potential of histological techniques in identifying metabolically relevant therapeutic targets in RA; specifically, we summarize the genetic basis of RA and the dysregulated metabolic pathways, and explore their functional significance in the context of immune cell activation and differentiation. This study demonstrates the critical role of histological techniques in decoding the complex metabolic network of RA and discusses the integration of histological data with other types of biological data.

New Insights into the Cytoarchitecture of the Rat Spinal Trigeminal Nucleus

The spinal trigeminal nucleus (SpV) is a crucial relay station in the central nervous system for processing sensory information from the face, head, and oral cavity. While historically considered a continuous structure, pioneering work by Olszewski revealed its subdivision into three distinct subnuclei: oral, interpolar, and caudal. Understanding the cytoarchitectonics of these subnuclei is fundamental for elucidating their functional roles in sensory perception and pain modulation. In this study, we conducted a detailed examination of the structural organization within each subnucleus of the SpV using histological techniques. Our findings reveal distinct cytoarchitectonic features characteristic of each subnucleus by providing insights into the spatial distribution and density of neuronal populations across the rostrocaudal extent of the SpV. These results contribute to a deeper understanding of the neural circuitry underlying sensory processing in the trigeminal system and may have implications for the diagnosis and treatment of disorders involving altered trigeminal function.

Shining Light on Osteoarthritis: Spatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy as a Window into Cartilage Health.

Articular cartilage is a complex tissue, and early detection of osteoarthritis (OA) is crucial for effective treatment. However, current imaging modalities lack molecular specificity and primarily detect late-stage changes. In this study, we propose the use of spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS) for noninvasive, depth-dependent, and molecular-specific diagnostics of articular cartilage. We demonstrate the potential of SORS to penetrate deep layers of cartilage, providing a comprehensive understanding of disease progression. Our SORS measurements were characterized and validated through mechanical and histological techniques, revealing strong correlations between spectroscopic measurements and both Young's modulus and depth of cartilage damage. By longitudinally monitoring enzymatically degraded condyles, we further developed a depth-dependent damage-tracking method. Our analysis revealed distinct components related to sample depth and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) changes, offering a comprehensive picture of cartilage health. Collectively, these findings highlight the potential of SORS as a valuable tool for enhancing OA management and improving patient outcomes.

Histologic, Progestational and Antiestrogenic Effects of Methanolic Extract of Asparagus pubescens (Roots) on the Male Reproductive Organs of Rabbit

This study investigates the effect of methanolic root extract of Asparagus pubescens on the male reproductive system in rabbits. Male reproductive organs is essential for producing and maintaining sperm, secreting testosterone, and transporting sperm to the female reproductive tract, include the testicles and accessory organs such as the epididymis, vas deferens, and prostate gland. The testicles, being the primary site of sperm and testosterone production, play a critical role in male fertility. Experimental animals were divided into four treatment groups and corresponding control groups. The plant extract was administered at low (250 mg/kg) and normal (500 mg/kg) doses for 14 and 21 days, respectively. Control groups, which received no treatment, showed no abnormal physical observations. Fertility assays included female rabbits, all of which became pregnant, confirming the fertility of the male rabbits used. Post-mortem analysis of testes from treated groups revealed no gross pathological changes. Histological examination indicated no disruptions in spermatogenesis across all treated groups, comparable to controls. The absence of pathological changes suggests that Asparagus pubescens does not exhibit visible contraceptive effects on male reproductive organs based on histological techniques. Estrogen’s role in regulating fluid reabsorption in the male reproductive tract suggests that the extract’s antiestrogenic activity might produce a contraceptive effect. Further research is necessary to explore its potential as a male contraceptive.

The Effect of Aqueous Extract of Fenugreek Plant on the Pancreas in Rabbits Induced with Diabetes and the Histological Changes Occurring in Them

The study aimed to induce alloxan-induced diabetes in local white rabbits, study its effect on the pancreas, treat them with aqueous extract of fenugreek at a concentration of 200 mg/kg orally, and observe the histological changes. To complete the study 20 white rabbits were taken and divided into three groups; 1st group is the control group and this group was dosed with distilled water. 2nd group was treated with Alloxan and was injected intraperitoneally at a dose of 175 mg/kg. 3rd group is the group that was treated with the aqueous extract of fenugreek at a concentration of 200 mg/kg for 30 days. After the end of the injection and dosing period after 30 days, the animals were killed and the pancreas was removed to perform histological techniques on them. its the group treated with alloxan was observed that the pancreas was composed of exocrine glandular lobules with enlarged secretory cells within the pancreatic acinus, with the presence of pale nuclei lacking pigment. Also, blood congestion of the blood vessels was found between the lobules of the gland and the pancreatic gland showed hyperplasia of its glandular epithelial cells with nuclei devoid of pigment due to the loss of the basal pigment in them. Blood congestion of the blood vessels appeared in the gland between the lobules, and dense colloidal fibers appeared in them and contained fibroblasts and phagocytic cells and the group treated with the aqueous extract of the fenugreek plant :The pancreatic parenchyma contained normal exocrine glandular secretion units, where the cytoplasm and nuclei of these cells were located in the form of regular axes, septations between the lobules of the pancreas surrounded by thick-walled arteries containing blood. and the islets of Lankerhans appeared between the yeast-secreting lobules of the pancreas. They contained endocrine cells of alpha and beta cells surrounded by blood sinusoids. The interstitial tissue between the lobules is composed of loose connective tissue containing colloidal fibers the pancreatic tissue contained the serous secretory vasculature of yeasts, which were uniform in shape, and between them were found blood vessels excessive with blood, where blood was found in a decomposed form in them, with the presence of small channels inside the lobules that transport yeasts.

Metabolic imaging across scales reveals distinct prostate cancer phenotypes

Hyperpolarised magnetic resonance imaging (HP-13C-MRI) has shown promise as a clinical tool for detecting and characterising prostate cancer. Here we use a range of spatially resolved histological techniques to identify the biological mechanisms underpinning differential [1-13C]lactate labelling between benign and malignant prostate, as well as in tumours containing cribriform and non-cribriform Gleason pattern 4 disease. Here we show that elevated hyperpolarised [1-13C]lactate signal in prostate cancer compared to the benign prostate is primarily driven by increased tumour epithelial cell density and vascularity, rather than differences in epithelial lactate concentration between tumour and normal. We also demonstrate that some tumours of the cribriform subtype may lack [1-13C]lactate labelling, which is explained by lower epithelial lactate dehydrogenase expression, higher mitochondrial pyruvate carrier density, and increased lipid abundance compared to lactate-rich non-cribriform lesions. These findings highlight the potential of combining spatial metabolic imaging tools across scales to identify clinically significant metabolic phenotypes in prostate cancer.

A randomized controlled trial on hair follicular-derived microtissue for promoting wound healing and alleviating postoperative complications after hair transplantation

BackgroundHair transplantation, particularly through follicular unit extraction (FUE), can lead to postoperative complications such as numbness, itching, and pain in donor areas, primarily due to delayed wound healing. Efficient management of donor-site healing is crucial to mitigate these complications and improve overall patient outcomes. ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the efficacy of Hair Follicular-Derived Microtissue (HFMT) in promoting wound healing and alleviating postoperative complications in donor areas following FUE hair transplantation. MethodsPerifollicular tissue, obtained during the trimming phase of hair transplantation, was processed into HFMT and analyzed for its properties using histological and molecular techniques. In a single-blind, split-scalp study involving 98 participants, Group A received HFMT or Mupirocin, while Group B received HFMT or no treatment. Dermatoscopic images were captured postoperatively, and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores were used to evaluate pain, itching, and numbness. ResultsHFMT-treated donor sites in Group A demonstrated a significantly higher wound closure ratio on postoperative day 3 compared to Mupirocin-treated sites. Pain scores for HFMT-treated sites were consistently lower on postoperative days 3, 5, and 7. Similar trends were observed for itching scores. Group B exhibited outcomes comparable to Group A. ConclusionThe application of HFMT homogenate effectively accelerated wound healing and alleviated donor site complications following FUE hair transplantation.

Unlocking the secrets of parasitic plants: A comparative study of the development and floral morphoanatomy of Pholisma (Lennoaceae)

Pholisma belongs to the family Lennoaceae, classified as obligate root holoparasites. Most existing studies are limited to addressing only P. arenarium. In this study, morphoanatomical and developmental aspects of flowers of the three species comprising Pholisma are described using histological embedding techniques in Paraplast and LR- White and observations by light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Similarities found in the three species include the presence of trichomes on the sepals, each carpel folding independently. Each carpel has transmitting tissue, and an empty cavity is distinguished in the centre of the style. The stigma is crateriform and of the wet type. Sporogenesis, gametogenesis, and floral development follow a similar pattern in the three species. Differences among species include the position of the stamens, pollen morphology, type of inflorescence, and colour of flowers and inflorescences. In P. arenarium, the stamens are located below the stigma height, and the pollen is tetracolporate and psilate; in P. sonorae, the stamens are at the same height as the stigma, and the pollen is tricolporate and reticulate; and in P. culiacana, the stamens are above the stigma height, and the pollen is tricolporate and psilate. The inflorescences in both P. arenarium and P. sonorae are cymes; the corolla colour is white with purple lines extending from the limb to the corolla tube. In contrast, the inflorescence in P. culiacana is a capitulum type, and the corolla colour is white with pink margins. The characters found in the three species of Pholisma are compared with some genera comprising the family Ehretiaceae.