Immunohistochemical identification and assessment of the location of leptin, visfatin and chemerin in the liver of men with different body mass index

Background

Adipokines such as leptin, visfatin and chemerin play a pivotal role not only in the pathogenesis of excessive weight gain but also impact on hepatic metabolism. However, alterations in the production of these peptides in the liver of overweight individuals have not been fully elucidated yet. The aim of the study was to evaluate changes in leptin, visfatin and chemerin biosynthesis in the liver of men with different BMI.

Methods

Fourteen adult men without symptoms from the digestive system were recruited. Research material consisted of liver samples. Study participants were divided into two groups: lean (BMI ≤ 25 kg/m²) and overweight subjects (BMI > 25 kg/m²). Paraffin liver sections were processed by immunohistochemistry for detection of leptin, visfatin and chemerin. Hepatic expression of leptin, visfatin and chemerin genes was determined by qRT-PCR method.

Results

Increased immunoreactivity for leptin and chemerin, and decreased immunoreaction for visfatin were observed in the liver of overweight men in comparison to lean subjects. Overweight subjects with hepatic steatosis displayed increased immunoreactivity for leptin and weaker immunoreaction against visfatin and chemerin in the liver, compared to individuals with normal organ structure. Expression of leptin and chemerin was enhanced in the liver of overweight individuals, with the highest expression observed in subjects with hepatic steatosis. Conversely, expression of visfatin in the male liver was decreased in overweight subjects and those with and liver steatosis.

Conclusions

The present study proves that the expression of leptin, visfatin and chemerin in the male liver is altered in overweight individuals. Our report also indicates the potential importance of these peptides in hepatic steatosis associated with overweight.

Altered cannabinoid receptor expression in pancreatic islets in experimental model of uraemia

BACKGROUND

Uraemia leads to a number of metabolic and hormonal disorders including defective carbohydrate metabolism. Endocannabinoids exert their effect on insulin and glucagon secretion via activation of specific receptors named CB1 and CB2. For this reason and the absence of reports on location and immunoreactivity of CB1, CB2 receptors compared to immunoreactivity of insulin- and glucagon-secreting cells in experimental uraemia, the author decided to investigate this issue. The aim of the present study was the immunohistochemical localisation and evaluation of cannabinoid receptors (CB1, CB2), insulin and glucagon in the pancreatic islets of uraemic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fragments of the rat's pancreas were collected 28 days after surgical resection of one kidney and removal of 70% of the other kidney cortex. Paraffin-embedded sections were stained with haematoxylin-eosin and immunohistochemical reactions were performed with the use of a specific antibody against CB1-, CB2-receptors, insulin and glucagon.

RESULTS

It was revealed the decreased immunoreactivity of the CB1 receptor and higher intensity of the immunohistochemical reaction against CB2 receptor as compared to the value in the control animals. Significantly higher immunoreactivity of glucagon-positive cells and weaker immunoreactivity of insulin-positive cells were observed in pancreatic islets of uraemic rats.

CONCLUSIONS

The obtained results indicate the involvement of cannabinoid receptors in the pathomechanism of carbohydrate metabolism disorders, associated with abnormal secretion of hormones by the α and β cells in uraemia.

Decreased immunoreactivity of visfatin in the pancreas and liver of rats with renovascular hypertension

Hypertension is one of the major endocrine and metabolic disorders, in which visfatin plays a significant role. The objective of this study was to evaluate the immunoreactivity of visfatin in pancreas and liver of “two kidney, one clip” (2K1C) renovascular hypertension model in rats. The studies were carried out on the pancreas and liver of rats. After a 6-week period of the renal artery clipping procedure, 2K1C rats developed a stable hypertension. Paraffin sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (for general histological examination) and processed for immunolocalization of visfatin. The intensity of immunohistochemical reaction was measured using Nikon NIS-Elements Advanced Research software. The hypertension significantly weakened the immunohistochemical reaction exhibiting visfatin in the pancreas and liver of hypertensive rats, compared to control animals. The changes induced by hypertension in the visfatin-containing cells in the pancreas and liver of the rats are discussed and needs further study.

The skin remodeling in type 1 diabetes and insulin resistance animal models

The skin matrix metalloproteinase 3, tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinase 2 and collagen III content changes in type 1 diabetes and insulin resistance treated with insulin and metformin were studied. Healthy adult male Wistar rats were obtained from experimental animal house, Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Medical University in Bialystok. The rats were divided randomly into five groups of 8 rats each. Control rats were injected intraperitoneally by NaCl. Type IDDM was induced by a single injection of Streptozocin. Insulin resistance was induced by a high-fat diet. The chosen groups of rats were also treated with insulin or metformin. ELISA Kits (USCN Life Science, China) were used to measure content of matrix metallo-proteinase 3 (ELISA Kit for Matrix Metalloproteinase 3 - MMP3), tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (ELISA Kit for Tissue Inhibitors of Metalloproteinase 2 - TIMP2) and content of collagen type 3 (ELISA Kit for Collagen Type III - COL3). The results were reported as a median. The statistical significance was defined as p<0.05. Type 1 diabetes and insulin resistance have significantly reduced the quality of the skin, shown by the increase in content of matrix metalloproteinase 3 and the decrease in content of tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinase 2. Type 1 diabetes and insulin resistance have reduced the quality of the skin expressed by type III collagen content decrease but for future studies it is recommend to determine rat interstitial collagenase, MMP-13, as well. Insulin and metformin treatment improved the quality of the diabetic skin, demonstrated by the type III collagen content increase.

Quantitative evaluation of CART-containing cells in urinary bladder of rats with renovascular hypertension

Recent biological advances make it possible to discover new peptides associated with hypertension. The cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) is a known factor in appetite and feeding behaviour. Various lines of evidence suggest that this peptide participates not only in control of feeding behaviour but also in the regulation of the cardiovascular and sympathetic systems and blood pressure. The role of CART in blood pressure regulation led us to undertake a study aimed at analysing quantitative changes in CART-containing cells in urinary bladders (UB) of rats with renovascular hypertension. We used the Goldblatt model of arterial hypertension (two-kidney, one clip) to evaluate quantitative changes. This model provides researchers with a commonly used tool to analyse the renin-angiotensin system of blood pressure control and, eventually, to develop drugs for the treatment of chronic hypertension. The study was performed on sections of urinary bladders of rats after 3-, 14-, 28-, 42 and 91 days from hypertension induction. Immunohistochemical identification of CART cells was performed on paraffin for the UBs of all the study animals. CART was detected in the endocrine cells, especially numerous in the submucosa and muscularis layers, with a few found in the transitional epithelium and only occasionally in serosa. Hypertension significantly increased the number of CART-positive cells in the rat UBs. After 3 and 42 days following the procedure, statistically significantly higher numbers of CART-positive cells were identified in comparison with the control animals. The differences between the hypertensive rats and the control animals concerned not only the number density of CART-immunoreactive cells but also their localization. After a 6-week period, each of the rats subjected to the renal artery clipping procedure developed stable hypertension. CART appeared in numerous transitional epithelium cells.

As this study provides novel findings, the question appears about the type of connection between hypertension and the functioning and activity of CART in the urinary tract (UT). The study gives rise to the assumption that high blood pressure can be a factor that intensifies CART secretion. In conclusion, the endocrine system of the urinary tract is modified by renovascular hypertension. This may affect the production of hormones and biologically active substances and contribute to the development of possible hypertension complications. In order to fully comprehend the role of the CART peptide in blood pressure regulation, further analyses are necessary.

Evaluation of CART-, glucagon-, and insulin-immunoreactive cells in the pancreas of an experimental rat model of unilateral renal artery stenosis

Hypertension is one of the most frequently occurring diseases worldwide. Approximately 10% of the population with hypertension reveal the secondary type of hypertension. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cells containing CART, insulin and glucagon in the pancreas of rats with renovascular hypertension. An experimental model of hypertension in rats according to Goldblatt (2K1C model of hypertension) was used in the study. The experimental material (pancreas) was collected in the 6th week of the study. Cells containing CART, insulin and glucagon were evaluated using immunohistochemical and morphometric methods. Pancreatic islet cells were evaluated based on the number and intensity of staining. The investigation showed an increase in the number and immunoreactivity of CART containing cells, 6 weeks after partial unilateral ligation of the renal artery. There was a significant decrease in the number of glucagon-IR cells. Although intensity of staining these cells did not change. No differences were observed in the number and staining affinity of insulin-containing cells. On the basis of the study it can be stated that the endocrine system of pancreas undergoes changes in the course of renovascular hypertension. This may affect the production of hormones and contribute to the development of possible hypertension complications.

Quantitative and qualitative evaluation of CART-containing cells in adrenal glands of male rats with hypertension

Adrenal activity is stimulated and secretion of stress hormones is increased during advanced stages of renovascular hypertension. The literature suggests that the neuropeptide, cocaine and amphetamine regulated transcript (CART), might regulate adrenal secretory function and thus could influence its activity. We assessed potential quantitative and qualitative changes in the cells that contained CART in the adrenal glands of rats with renovascular hypertension. The renal arteries of ten rats were subjected to a clipping procedure, i.e., two-kidney one-clip (2K1C) model of arterial hypertension, and after 6 weeks each rat developed stable hypertension. CART was localized using immunohistochemistry. CART was detected in a large population of cells in the medulla, sparse nerve fibers in the cortex and the capsule of the adrenal gland. The population of CART-positive cells in adrenal glands of two kidney-one clip (2K1C) treated rats was greater and their immunoreactivity was increased compared to controls. Similarly, the length, width, area and diameter of CART-immunoreactive cells were significantly greater in the hypertensive rats than in controls. We demonstrated that renovascular hypertension alters the number and immunoreactivity of CART-containing cells in adrenal glands.

Distribution of cocaine and amphetamine regulated transcript in ureters and urinary bladder of hypertensive rats

Cocaine and amphetamine regulated transcript (CART), a neuropeptide of the central and peripheral nervous system plays an essential role in maintaining body homeostasis by regulating body temperature, orexia, digestive motility and blood pressure. Very few studies describe the relationship of hyperten¬sion with CART. Therefore, the present research was undertaken to identify, locate and determine the number of CART-immunopositive neuroendocrine cells (NE) and structures in the urinary bladder and ureter of rats with experimentally induced nephrogenic hypertension. The experiments were conducted on 20 Wistar rats in which hypertension was experimentally induced by applying a clamp on the left renal artery based on the two kidney, one clip experimental model (2K1C). After 6 weeks, fragments of the ureters and urinary bladder were sampled from rats with permanent hypertension. Immunohisto¬chemical analyses revealed a salient effect of renovascular hypertension on the neuroendocrine system of rat ureters and urinary bladder. Differences in the number of neuroendocrine cells and in the density of CART-positive structures were identified between the hypertensive and normotensive (control) rats. Hypertension greatly increased the number of NE cells and the density of CART- immunoreactive (IR) structures in the analysed urinary system organs.

Comparative evaluation of gastric ghrelin cells and levels of hormone in the serum of healthy women and men

Due to difficulties in obtaining human material, most of the data concerning the site of occurrence and synthesis of ghrelin are based on animal studies. There are only few reports describing ghrelin-containing cells in the human digestive tract, based on the limited human material obtained during surgery or biopsy. The aim of this study was to compare and evaluate the distribution and morphology of ghrelin cells in the stomach and the levels of hormone in the serum of healthy men and women. The study included 18 subjects with normal gastric mucosa (12 men and 6 women). Immunohistochemistry was performed using rabbit anti-ghrelin (human) antiserum. Ghrelin level in serum was measured by ELISA. The total number of ghrelin positive cells was greater in the stomach of women than men. Ghrelin-immunoreactive cells were more elongated and larger in the stomach of women. The serum ghrelin level was higher in men than in women. Ghrelin concentration in serum correlates negatively with body mass index and weight in both genders, whereas the correlation between ghrelin level and age was positive in women and negative in men. The number of cells containing ghrelin in the stomach does not reflect the serum hormone levels. The differences in gastric ghrelin cells and ghrelin levels in serum between women and men, indicate that secretion of hormone can be under control sex hormones or other unknown factors.

Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript : identification and distribution in human gastrointestinal tract

Cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) was identified in the central and peripheral nervous system, including the gastrointestinal tract of rodents and pig. CART was also expressed in neuroendocrine cells of the rats stomach antral mucosa. The knowledge of the presence and functional role of CART peptide in the human alimentary tract is very limited due to difficulties in obtaining human samples (especially from healthy individuals). The presence of CART peptide in the gastrointestinal tract of the human was investigated immunohistochemically. CART-immunoreactive (IR) neural structures were observed in all studied fragments of alimentary tract. CART-like immunoreactive nerve fibers were numerous within the muscle in layers of muscularis externa and in the myenteric plexus of all gastrointestinal segments (from esophagus to colon), while they were moderate or few in density in other layers of gastrointestinal tract. The presence of CART peptides in the neuroendocrine cells was demonstrated predominantly in the pyloric, duodenum and fundus, and only few in the rest parts of the small intestine. CART-IR neuroendocrine cells could not be detected in the mucosa of large intestine. The present study reports for the first time a detailed description of the CART distribution pattern within the human alimentary tract. Our findings may hopefully provide some contribution towards a more complete and comprehensive understanding of the function and role of the CART peptide in the alimentary system.

Dynamics of calcitonin gene-related peptide-like cells changes in the lungs of two-kidney, one-clip rats

Taking into consideration renal hypertension-induced homeostatic disorders and the key role of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in many, systemic functions regulating systems, a question arises as to what an extent arterial hypertension affects the morphology and dynamics of pulmonary CGRP-immunopositive cell changes. The aim of the present study was to examine the distribution, morphology and dynamics of changes of CGRP-containing cells in the lungs of rats in the two-kidney, one-clip (2K1C) renovascular hypertension model. The studies were carried out on the lungs of rats after 3, 14, 28, 42, and 91 days long period from the renal artery clipping procedure. In order to identify neuroendocrine cells, immunohistochemical reaction was performed with the use of a specific antibody against CGRP. It was revealed that renovascular hypertension caused changes in the neuroendocrine, CGRP-containing cells in the lungs of rats. The changes, observed in the neuroendocrine cells, depended on time periods from experimentally induced hypertension. The highest intensity of changes in the neuroendocrine cells was observed in the lungs of rats after 14 days from the surgery.

Immunohistochemical identification and localisation of gastrin and somatostatin in endocrine cells of human pyloric gastric mucosa

The detailed description of the distribution of endocrine cells G and D producing important hormones that regulate activation of other cells in the human stomach may be a valuable source of information for opinions about mucosa changes in different diseases of the alimentary tract. The density and distribution of immunoreactive G and D cells in the pylorus of humans (donors of organs) were evaluated. The pylorus samples were collected after other organs were harvested for transplantation. The number of G cells in the pyloric mucosa of healthy people was higher than the number of D cells. G and D cells were distributed between columnar cells of epithelium mucosa. Multiform endocrine cells generally occurred: gastrin in the middle third of the mucosa and somatostatin cells in the basal half of the pyloric mucosa. The investigation of the pyloric part of the healthy human stomach showed a characteristic distribution of cells that reacted with antisera against gastrin and somatostatin.

The ghrelin-positive cells number is increased in duodenum in children with celiac disease

Ghrelin is predominately produced in the stomach, but new findings indicate that the intestinal wall is an important source of the hormone. In patients with shortbowel syndrome, reduction in the intestinal tissue resulted in a decrease in the circulating ghrelin levels. Since in celiac disease (CD) intestinal mucosa atrophy is the main finding, alterations in duodenal ghrelin-positive cell population can be expected. The aim of the study was to evaluate the density of ghrelin-positive cells in the duodenum of CD children and its relationship with body mass index (BMI) and clinical presentation. The study included 31 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed CD [BMI SD scores (BMISDS) -0.926+/-1.496]. The control group consisted of 21 children (BMISDS -0.517+/-1.186], diagnosed with growth retardation, anemia or abdominal pain. All the patients underwent endoscopy with biopsy samples taken from distal duodenum. Immunohistochemistry was performed using rabbit anti- ghrelin (human) antiserum. The number of ghrelin-positive cells in the duodenum was significantly higher in children with CD than in controls (14.82+/-11.12 vs 5.69+/-5.02, p<0.0013). The density of ghrelin-positive cells in the duodenum did not correlate with age, pubertal status, BMISDS or clinical presentation. In the duodenum of CD children, the number of ghrelin-positive cells is increased compared with the control patients. The population of ghrelin-positive cells in the duodenum does not simply reflect an altered mucosal morphology or failure to thrive but is under the influence of other conditions.

Quantitative distribution and localization of calcitonin gene-related peptide-like cells in the stomach of two kidney, one clip rats

The majority of research for the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the stomach in the hypertension has been devoted to the submucosal blood flow, and no attention has been paid to its quantitative distribution in the gastric neuroendocrine cells. The aim of the present study was to examine the number and distribution of CGRP-containing cells in the pylorus of "two kidney, one clip" (2K1C) renovascular hypertension model in rats. The studies were carried out on the stomach of rats. After 6 week period of the renal artery clipping procedure, eight 2K1C rats developed stable hypertension. The hypertension significantly increased the number of endocrine cells pylorus immunoreactive to calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) antisera. The differences between the hypertensive rats and the control group concerned not only the number of endocrine cells but also their distribution. CGRP participates in the regulation of cardiovascular functions both in normal state and in the pathophysiology of hypertension through interactions with the prohypertensive systems. The changes induced by hypertension in the neuroendocrine cells containing CGRP of the rats are discussed.

Plasmin system regulation in an ovalbumin-induced rat model of asthma

BACKGROUND

So far studies showing the role of the plasmin system in airway remodelling have been conducted using in vitro models. The aim of the present study was to determine plasmin system regulation in an in vivo rat model of asthma.

METHODS

Asthma in Wistar rats was induced by ovalbumin (OVA) sensitization followed by an OVA challenge (OVA/OVA, n = 6). Control groups were saline-sensitized challenged with OVA (VEH/OVA, n = 6) and OVA-sensitized challenged with saline (OVA/VEH, n = 6). Plasmin system components were determined in the plasma by ELISA. Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) was localized by an immunohistochemical reaction.

RESULTS

Sensitization and challenge with OVA caused thickening of the airway wall, hypertrophy of smooth muscle cells, infiltration of inflammatory cells, subepithelial fibrosis, epithelial and endothelial lesions. Serum total IgE was significantly higher in OVA-sensitized rats as compared to VEH-sensitized control groups. Tissue plasminogen activator activity was significantly decreased in asthmatic animals (4.48 +/- 0.4 vs. 6.7 +/- 0.3 ng/ml for OVA/OVA and OVA/VEH; p < 0.05), and PAI-1 activity was statistically significantly higher in asthma rats (0.8 +/- 0.05 vs. 0.5 +/- 0.03 ng/ml for OVA/OVA vs. OVA/VEH; p < 0.05). alpha2-Antiplasmin was higher in rats receiving OVA sensitization than in those that were sham sensitized (p < 0.05). Immunohistochemical staining for PAI-1in the lungs of asthmatic animals showed very strong PAI-1 expression in lung inflammatory cells.

CONCLUSIONS

We have demonstrated for the first time the existence of PAI-1 in lung inflammatory cells of rats with asthma. This finding was consistent with the superiority of plasmin system inhibition over activation in plasma.

An immunohistochemical study of endocrine cells in the stomach of hypertensive rats

Essential hypertension is a complex disease with both genetic and environmental determinants. The effect of spontaneous hypertension on the distribution and occurrence of somatostatin-, gastrin- and serotonin-immunoreactive cells in the fundus and pylorus of the rat stomach was examined by immunohistochemistry. The animals were killed by decapitation at 4 and 16 weeks of age (5 control rats and 5 hypertensive rats). Endocrine cells generally increase in number in hypertensive rats as compared to control rats. However, the detailed responses of endocrine cells to hypertension depend on the cell type, region of gastric mucosa and age of animals. The present results suggest that hypertension has an influence on the intrinsic regulatory system by endocrine cells control in the rat stomach.

Impression cytology of the conjunctival epithelial cells in patients with cystic fibrosis

PURPOSE

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most frequent lethal autosomal recessive hereditary disorder. The disease affects all secretory epithelia, including the eye, and belongs to the group of ocular surface epithelial diseases, termed keratoconjunctivitis sicca or dry eye syndrome. The aim of this study was to evaluate goblet cell population and conjunctival epithelial morphology in patients with CF.

METHODS

A total of 20 CF patients and 20 controls underwent conjunctival impression cytology.

RESULTS

Impression cytology showed conjunctival squamous metaplasia and goblet cell loss in patients with CF.

CONCLUSION

Reduced goblet cell numbers and squamous metaplasia may be indicative of a higher degree of epithelial damage of conjunctival epithelial cells in CF patients, and the presence of neutrophils is a strong sign for an inflammatory background of this disease.In view of the simple, noninvasive nature of impression cytology, this technique may prove to be an important tool for the diagnosis and monitoring of dry eye changes in CF patients.

Calcitonin gene-related peptide expression altered in pulmonary neuroendocrine cells in an experimental model of uraemia

The undertaken studies is aimed at immunohistochemical localisation, quantitative assessment and functional evaluation of neuroendocrine cells in the lungs of rats with experimentally induced uraemia. Lung and trachea fragments were collected after 1, 2 and 4 weeks from nephrectomy. Paraffin-embedded sections were stained with haematoxylin and eosin and by silver impregnation. An immunohistochemical reaction was then performed with the use of a specific antibody against calcitonin-gene related peptide (CGRP) to identify neuroendocrine cells. Obtained results of the performed studies demonstrated a significantly increased number of CGRP-immunopositive cells in the lungs of applied uraemic rats (4.47+/-0.97, 7.62+/-1.61 and 5.72+/-2.5 neuroendocrine cells/mm(2) of lung section after the 1(st), the 2(nd) and the 4(th) week, respectively), when compared with that in the control (1.22+/-0.47 neuroendocrine cells/mm(2) of lung section). The obtained results may be approached as a morphological expression of neuroendocrine cells hyperfunction in the lungs in result of disturbed internal body environment caused by renal parenchyma impairment. The enhanced activity of neuroendocrine cells, observed in the lungs of uraemic rats, was confirmed by results of studies of morphometric parameters, such as: area, diameter, length, width and the circularity index.

Quantitative characteristics of somatostatin-like cells in the stomach of uraemic rats

Metabolic disorders induced by impairment of renal parenchyma functions affect the activity of the endocrine cells of the APUD system, which are of importance in the intrinsic regulatory system in the digestive tract. For this reason, the author decided to investigate the behaviour of neuroendocrine cells in experimental uraemia, taking somatostatin-producing cells as an example. The aim of the present study was to examine the number and distribution of somatostatin-containing cells in the pylorus of rats with uraemia. Segments of the gastric pylorus were collected 1, 2 and 4 weeks after nephrectomy. Paraffin-embedded sections were stained with H+E and by silver impregnation. To identify the neuroendocrine cells, on immunohistochemical reaction was performed with a specific antibody against somatostatin. It was found that the number of ST-immunoreactive cells in the stomach of the rats significantly decreased one week after nephrectomy and then considerably increased two and four weeks after the uraemia-inducing surgery as compared with the values in the control animals. The results can be regarded as a morphological manifestation of the hyperreaction of somatostatin-producing endocrine cells in the rat stomach to disorders in the internal environment of the body induced by impairment of renal parenchyma function.

Preliminary evaluation of morphological parameters of the saliva in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment

PURPOSE

In recent years, many reports have focused on clinical changes in the oral cavity of orthodontic patients, manifested in general inflammation of the mucosa. In order to better understand histopathological alterations in the mouth and the use of easily available diagnostic material, we decided to assess the morphology of salivary cells at different time points of treatment with orthodontic appliances.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study material included non-stimulated saliva obtained from 21 orthodontic patients and 11 healthy secondary school students (controls). After fixation in 96% ethanol the smears were stained with PAS + hematoxylin or H+E, and using the methods of May-Grünwald-Giemsa and Feulgen.

RESULTS

As revealed by the histopathological examinations of saliva smears, patients treated with intra-oral fixed orthodontic appliances showed morphological changes in oral epithelial cells and in the number of leukocytes as compared to the control group. The changes were most pronounced in the first months of treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The preliminary data indicate that orthodontic patients develop changes in the composition and morphology of salivary cells, the intensity of which depends on the time of exposure to the appliance.

The concentration of anthranilic acid in saliva of orthodontic appliances

PURPOSE

Anthranilic acid is an important, the aromatic intermediate in the degradation of tryptophan in kynurenine pathway. This compound plays an important role in the regulation of immunological processes as well shows antibacterial activity. The aim of our study was to estimate the concentration of anthranilic acid in saliva of young patients with orthodontic apparatus. We also assessed correlation between saliva anthranilic acid concentrations and time of orthodontic treatment. For the first time we have demonstrated the enhanced concentration of anthranilic acid in saliva of young orthodontic appliances.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was performed on non-stimulated, mixed saliva of patients with orthodontic appliances. The concentration of anthranilic acid and was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

The concentration of anthranilic acid was significantly higher in orthodontic patients (p = 0.043) in comparison to healthy volunteers. The mean time of orthodontic treatment was 15.0 +/- 2.03 months. We did not observe existence of correlation between anthranilic acid concentration in saliva and time of orthodontic treatment (r = -0.250; p = 0.517).

CONCLUSION

These results might indicate that anthranilic acid can be one of many factors initiating of periodontal disease in orthodontic appliances.

Preliminary evaluation of saliva composition in allergic patients subjected to orthodontic treatment; morphological examination

PURPOSE

Intra-oral fixed orthodontic appliances, so frequently used in the treatment of malocclusions, may cause pathomorphological changes in the mouth and can be a potential source of antigen stimulation. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to assess the changes in salivary cells of orthodontically treated allergic patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study material was the non-stimulated saliva samples collected from 28 allergic patients subjected to orthodontic treatment with intra-oral fixed appliances and from 11 healthy secondary school students (controls). After fixation in 96% ethanol, saliva smears were stained with PAS + hematoxylin or H+E, and using the methods of May-Grünwald-Giemsa and Feulgen. The microscopic analysis was made of oral epithelial cells and inflow elements, with regard to their shape, size, the nucleus-to-cytoplasm ratio and nuclear chromatin condensation.

RESULTS

The results of preliminary investigations indicate that allergic patients with fixed orthodontic appliances exhibit changes in the morphology and composition of salivary cells as compared to control patients. Differences in the morphological picture were most pronounced in the first months of orthodontic treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

It was shown that the number and morphology of salivary cells in allergic patients altered in response to ions released from dental alloys. Thus, saliva can be used as diagnostic material.

Oral cavity status and IgE level in orthodontic patients

PURPOSE

Considering nickel release from fixed orthodontic appliances, determination of the relationship between the clinical status of the mouth, IgE level and treatment duration in orthodontic patients seems to be advisable.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty-one patients with symptoms of nickel hypersensitivity observed during treatment with fixed orthodontic appliances were separated from a group of 50 subjects, aged 11-33 years, undergoing orthodontic treatment for malocclusion. The patients were divided into two subgroups PgA and PgB.

RESULTS

The mean IgE level in PgA was 39.20 IU/ml and in PgB 210.61 IU/ml. In PgA, the majority of patients were wearing ear-rings (8/10), but not in PgB (4/11). The mean treatment duration in PgA was 21.3 +/- 4.83 months, while in PgB 14.4 +/- 2.84. There were no statistically significant differences in the symptoms indicating stomatitis between the groups of patients subjected to treatment with intra-oral appliances.

CONCLUSIONS

The immunologic profile of the patient plays a key role in the choice of the type of appliance used to treat abnormalities of the masticatory organ. Determination of IgE is necessary in the case of allergy-positive history.

Morphometric evaluation of murine pulmonary mast cells in experimental hemorrhagic shock

Respiratory failure resulting frequently in death is one of the complications in the course of post-hemorrhagic changes. A systemic inflammatory reaction plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of this syndrome. Mast cells also contribute to this effect. To broaden our knowledge of the pathogenesis of respiratory insufficiency, we evaluated morphometrically lung mast cells in hemorrhagically shocked rats. Lung sections were stained with alcian blue and safranin, and four separate locations were distinguished: under the lung pleura, around the bronchi and the large vessels, and in the interalveolar septa. A decrease in the area and volume of mast cells and an increase in their circularity index in interalveolar septa and around the bronchi was observed. An enlargement of mast cells around lung vessels was also found. There were no changes in the morphometric parameters of mast cells under pleura. The results suggest an activation and degranulation of mast cells and a role in the inflammatory process causing acute lung injury in hemorrhagic shock.

Immunohistochemical evaluation of mast cells and mark activity tryptase and chymase in experimental fibrosarcoma

The aim of the study was an evaluation of the activity of mast cells and mark activity tryptase and chymase and of protein levels in experimental fibrosarcoma, induced in rat skin. The experiments were carried out on 50 male Wistar rats. The cancer was induced in rats by one subcutaneous injection of 0.2 mg 3-methylcholanthrene in 0.25 ml of olive oil. Tissue material was fixed in Bouin's fluid. Immunohistochemical tryptase detecting reactions were performed--using specific antibodies and the ABC complex. The activities of tryptase and chymase and protein levels were determined in supernatant of 10% homogenate. We found a very significant growth of mast cell quantity in the connective tissue of tumours. We observed slight differences in the activity of examined enzymes in tumours of different mass.

Changes in proteasome activity in the ischemic kidney of rat with experimental renovascular hypertension

A long-lasting renal ischemia, followed by the left renal artery clipping (two-kidney, one clip Goldblatt model in rats) led to a marked decrease in proteasome chymotrypsin-like activity in the ischemic kidney. This activity was, however, significantly raised upon the stimulation with an artificial 20S proteasome activator SDS (0.025%). No changes were observed in either the levels of the constitutive 20S proteasome subunit (alpha5) or of its protein activator, PA28alpha, in the kidneys by Western blot. These preliminary results indicate that an inhibition of proteasome activity may result from a dissociation of the active proteasome complexes into the inactive 20S proteasome and its endogenous activators after a long-lasting renal ischemia.

Helicobacter pylori infection and mast cells of the antrum mucosa

The studies aimed at evaluating mast cells in inflammatory infiltration of gastric mucosa in children with H. pylori infection, as well as in those after the infection eradication. Biopsy specimens of gastric mucosa were evaluated, the specimens collected from 59 H. pylori-positive patients (Group I), 29 patients after H. pylori infection (Group II) and 18 H. pylori-negative children (Group III). The specimens were assessed for infection and inflammation and stained with anti-human mast cell tryptase to count mucosal mast cells. The evaluations of histopathological changes in the antrum mucosa of the children were performed, according to Sydney's Classification. In morphometric evaluation, slight differences were found in the numbers of mast cells among Groups: I, II and III of the examined children (the number of mastocytes being: 86.4, 81.4 and 70.2 cells/mm2 of specimen, respectively).

Presence of MHC-I in rat glioma cells expressing antisense IGF-I-receptor RNA

The supposed immunogenic character of glioma cells transfected with antisense IGF-I-Receptor (IGF-I-R) expression vector was tested for the presence of MHC-I currently present in cells of IGF-I antisense type. C6 rat glioma cell line was comparatively transfected in vitro with IGF I antisense (pMT-Anti-IGF I) or IGF I Receptor antisense (pMT-Anti-IGF I R) expression vectors. The wild and transfected cells were examined for the presence of IGF-I and MHC-I molecules. Using RT PCR technique, the transfected "antisens" cells showed total inhibition of IGF-I. The both transfected cultures of IGF-I and of IGF-I-R type were positively stained for MHC-I. Moreover "antisense IGF-I-R" cells as compared to "IGF-I antisense" cells showed slightly higher expression of MHC-I. The transfected cells showed also the feature of apoptosis in 60% of cells. The immunogenicity of IGF-I-R antisense glioma cells is related to MHC-I presence; therefore both approaches of antisense IGF-I and of antisense IGF-I-R could be use in paralel for cellular therapy of glioblastoma.

Estimation of influence of high doses of cholecalciferol on thyroid parafollicular and respiratory tract neuroendocrine cells; preliminary investigations

The aim of this study was to compare what changes are caused by high doses of cholecalciferol (100,000 UI vD3) and CaCl2 on thyroid parafollicular (C) cells and airways neuroendocrine (NE) cells in rat. Overdosage of vD3 and CaCl2 causes hypocalcaemia and strong hypercalcitoninemia in blood; C cells showed mainly signs of hypertrophy; simultaneously, the number of strong calcitoninpositive cells decreased significantly (statistically significant changes). Immunohistochemical reactions, detecting CGRP, somatostatin, synaptophysin and neuronspecific enolase did not fall under statistic analysis. Airways NE cells re-acted to hypercalcemia differently than C cells--they probably respond to different regulatory mechanisms.

Pulmonary neuroendocrine cells in chronic renal failure

In patients with chronic renal failure, mechanical and haemodynamic changes could occur in the lungs without obvious pulmonary symptoms and findings, and their effects could pave the way to pulmonary functional disorders. Numerous studies have demonstrated that the respiratory system is a site of synthesis of many compounds, which play biological roles ascribed to hormones. The present article is an attempt to make a synthesis of current opinions and views, based on the world literature survey and on our own studies, concerning the effect of homeostatic dysfunction of the kidneys on the morphology and action of DNES cells in the lung.

Cytotoxic lymphocytes (CD8+) in the antrum mucosa in children with chronic Helicobacter pylori-related inflammation before and after bacteria eradication

The authors assessed the expression of cytotoxic CD8 lymphocytes in the antrum mucosa of children with chronic Helicobacter pylori-related inflammation, before and after bacteria eradication. Biopsy specimens of gastric mucosa were evaluated in specimens, collected from 59 H. pylori-positive patients (Group I), 29 patients after H. pylori infection (Group II) and 18 H. pylori-negative children (Group III). The obtained specimens were assessed for infection and inflammation and the expression of CD8+ lymphocytes was estimated, using monoclonal antibodies. The number of CD8+ lymphocytes in the mucosa was counted. The results of the study showed an increase in the expression of CD8+ lymphocytes in children with H. pylori infection, in comparison to the values in children after bacteria eradication. The increased expression of CD8+ lymphocytes correlated with the severity degree of antrum gastritis.

Histological evaluation of the thyroid structure after co-exposure to cadmium and ethanol

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of co-exposure to cadmium (Cd) and ethanol on the structure and function of the thyroid. Male Wistar rats were exposed to 50 mg of Cd/dm3 in drinking water and ethanol in a dose of 5 g/kg body wt/24 h (administered intragastrically in two equal doses for 5 days a week) for 12 weeks. The structure of the thyroid was assessed in a light microscope. Immunohistochemical methods were used to determine calcitonin (CT), the calcitonin-gene related peptide (CGRP), somatostatin (ST) and synaptophysin (SPh) in the thyroid parafollicular cells (C cells). Weakening of the reactions for CT, CGRP, ST, SPh was observed in C cells. The animals, exposed to a combined action of Cd and ethanol, showed signs of enhanced activity (elevated light follicular epithelium and rarefied colloid), as well as features of intensified remodelling (partial or total follicular atrophy and the appearance of new follicles) of the thyroid gland. In some fragments of the connective tissue stroma mononuclear cell infiltration was observed. The nature of the changes, observed in the rats, simultaneously exposed to Cd and ethanol, may suggest an enhancement in the function of C cells.

Attempts to detect Helicobacter pylori in atherosclerotic plaques

Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases are regarded to be the main causes of mortality in developed countries, atherosclerosis being at their pathological base. During the recent years, attention was paid to the role of bacterial infections, including Helicobacter pylori, in the process of atherogenesis and coronary heart disease development. The aim of the study was an evaluation of H. pylori presence--by means of PCR technique--in atherosclerotic changes, obtained by endarterectomy, performed during coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). In the analysed group of patients, the following risk factors were found: hyperlipidaemia, smoking, hypertension, obesity, diabetes mellitus, cardiac infarction. No DNA of the bacteria was traced in any of the patients.

Morphological evaluation of the lungs in rats with experimentally induced renal failure

The study aimed at morphological evaluation of changes in the lungs of rats during experimentally induced uremia. The studies were performed in three (3) groups of rats: C--a control group (15 animals), SO--15 rats, submitted to sham operation, U--an uremic group--21 rats with experimental renal failure. After 1, 2 and 4 weeks from the surgery, the collected lungs were fixed in Bouin's fluid and in 2.5% purified glutaraldehyde for electron microscopy. Paraffin specimens were cut into 5 microm slices and stained by H+E, by Azan's method and with silver, according to Grimelius. Ultra thin sections contrasted with uranyl acetate and lead citrate. Blood serum urea and creatinine levels were determined. In the uremic rats, increased concentrations of serum creatinine and urea were observed. Chronic renal failure affected the progress and the degree of development of the changes in the lungs, the final effect of which was fibrosis. In microscopic pictures of the lungs from the uremic rats, numerous changes were observed, characteristic for chronic oedematous conditions of different intensification.

Memory cells in the antral mucosa of children with Helicobacter pylori infection

A total of 106 patients, included in the study, were divided into three groups with regard to Helicobacter pylori infection. Endoscopy and histopathological examination of the stomach, based on the Sydney's System, were performed in all the children. CD45RA and CD45RO cells were identified by means of specific antibodies in the inflammatory infiltrate of the antral mucosa. An increased expression of CD45RO and CD45RA lymphocytes was reported, basing on the results of the study.

B (CD20+) lymphocytes in the antrum mucosa of children with Helicobacter pylori infection

The aim of the study was to estimate the expression of CD20+ lymphocytes in the antrum mucosa in children, infected with Helicobacter pylori and after bacteria eradication. Biopsy specimens of gastric mucosa were the specimens, collected from 59 H. pylori-positive patients (Group I), 29 patients after H. pylori infection (Group II) and 18 H. pylori-negative children (Group III). The collected specimens were assessed for infection and inflammation and the expression of CD20+ lymphocytes was estimated, using mice monoclonal antibodies. The expression of CD20+ lymphocytes in the inflammatory infiltrate of the antrum mucosa correlated with the severity of gastritis, found in children with Helicobacter pylori infection and was the highest in comparison with the group of children after H. pylori eradication.

Macrophages of the antral mucosa in children with Helicobacter pylori infection and after eradication

Our study included 59 children, aged 12.2 +/- 4.6 years, with Helicobacter pylori infection and 29 children, aged 11.0 +/- 4.2 years, with past H. pylori infection after spontaneous eradication with positive IgG antibodies against H. pylori and with functional disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, without H. pylori infection, with normal IgG concentration against H. pylori. All biopsy specimens from each of the study groups were stained by an immunohistochemical method for the evaluation of CD68+ macrophages in the antral mucosa. Histopathological changes in the antral mucosa of children with Helicobacter pylori are characterized by an increased infiltrate of macrophages, dependent on the severity grade of inflammation.

The evaluation of quantity and distribution of murine pulmonary mast cells in experimental hemorrhagic shock

Respiratory failure is one of the most serious clinical complications in the course of post-hemorrhagic changes. Cascade-like, systemic inflammatory reaction including the axis: intestines-liver-lung-immune system has a special significance in the pathogenesis of this syndrome. In order to broaden the knowledge of the respiratory insufficiency pathogenesis in hemorrhagic shock, the attempt was made to evaluate quantitatively rat mast cells localized under the pulmonary pleura, around the bronchi, around large vessels and placed in the interalveolar septa. The examinations were conducted on 24 young female Wistar rats, divided into two groups (n=12): (I) sham-operated and (II) shocked. The hemorrhagic shock was evoked by the withdrawal of 25% of the circulating blood. The shock duration was 75 min. The obtained lung sections were stained with toluidine blue and examined in a light microscope. After hemorrhagic shock, sections of lung samples revealed about two-fold increase in mast cell number/mm2 compared to controls. Mast cells were concentrated mostly around the bronchi and blood vessels. Hyperplasia and migration of mast cells may suggest their role in the modulation of inflammatory process causing acute lung injury in the hemorrhagic shock.

Hybridocytochemical detection of mRNA for calcitonin, CGRP, NPY and somatostatin in thyroid parafollicular (C) cells in three rodent species

The present study was aimed at hybridocytochemical (HCC) detection and interspecies comparison of mRNA for calcitonin (CT), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), neuropeptide Y (NPY) and somatostatin (SS) in thyroid C cells of two rodent families of wild Microtidae: pine voles and common voles and also of laboratory Muridae, Wistar rats. Studies were performed on adult males. The HCC method in situ and immunomax technique were used to detect mRNA. DNA oligonucleotide probes labeled with digoxigenin were used in the HCC method. The obtained results were compared to the results of immunocytochemical (ICC) examinations, where rabbit or mouse antibodies against human CT, SS, NPY and rat CGRP, as well as chromogranin A were performed. In the present study, HCC reaction has demonstrated the presence of mRNA for CT and CGRP in all thyroid C cells in all the species examined. However, mRNA for NPY and SS was observed in very few C cells in rat and in many more C cells in the two species of wild rodents. The distribution of the positive cells corresponded with that of ICC detected cells.

The dynamics of morphological changes in the pyloric endocrine cells of rats with uremia

Disturbances in renal homeostatic function lead to changes in endocrine cell secretory activity. The aim of this study was the histomorphological estimation of dependence of gastric APUD system cell morphology and function on the time after subtotal nephrectomy in Wistar rats. Fragments of gastric pylorus were collected 1. 2, 4, and 6 weeks after nephrectomy. Paraffin sections were stained with H+E and by silver impregnation. Immunohistochemical reactions with the use of specific antibodies against calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), synaptophysin (SPh). somatostatin (ST), and neuron-specific enolase (NSE) were also performed. Immunoreactivity of the examined substances in the pyloric mucosa in the first week after nephrectomy was lower than in the control group. However, in the following time intervals, endocrine cells showed stronger immunostaining in comparison with the control rats. The results suggest that chronic renal failure can modulate secretory activity of APUD system cells.

Preliminary evaluation of mast cells and angiogenesis processes in experimental fibrosarcoma

The aim of the study was the evaluation of angiogenesis processes in fibrosarcoma induced by 3-methylcholanthrene (3-Mc) in reference to the number of mast cells (MCs). 76 male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups: two experimental (E) groups--after injection of 0.2 mg 3-Mc dissolved in olive oil (0.25ml), and 2 control (C) groups. In E1 group, 52 rats were killed after development of the fibrosarcoma; E(2)--10 rats were killed before development of the tumor; C(1)-8 rats received 0.25ml olive oil; C(2)--8 rats received no treatment. Tissue material was fixed in buffered formalin or Carnoy's and Bouin's fluid. Paraffin sections were stained with H+E and Azan methods, and with alcian blue-saphranine and toluidine blue. Immunohistochemical reactions detecting tryptase in MCs were also performed. Angiogenic objects (microvessels and single endothelial cells) were recognized using antibodies against factor VIII (vWF), P selectin (CD-62P), and CD-90. We found a distinct relationship between intensification of neoangiogenesis at the tumor periphery and increased number of MCs.

Preliminary evaluation of pancreatic islets in rats with experimental uremia and after thyroparathyroidectomy

Hormonal disorders are the permanent symptoms of renal failure. They concern all known hormones and can be due to quantitative changes of the secretory activity and disturbances of endocrine cell functions. The aim of this study was to establish whether experimental thyroparathyroidectomy in uremic animals causes detectable histomorphological changes in endocrine cells of pancreatic islets. Thyroparathyroidectomy was performed in rats 30 days after nephrectomy. Fragments of pancreatic tissue were collected 14 days after the operation. Paraffin sections were stained with H+E and by silver salt impregnation. Immunohistochemical reactions were conducted using antibodies against calcitoningene-related peptide (CGRP), synaptophysin (SPh), somatostatin (ST), neuron-specific enolase (NSE), and chromogranin (CgA). It was shown that endocrine cells of pancreatic islets in thyroparathyroidectomized rats show intensified immunoreactivity to SPh and ST as compared to the control group of animals. Immunocytochemical reactions for NSE, CgA, and CGRP were negative.

PCNA and P53 expression in relation to clinicopathological features of oral papilloma

Although papilloma is the most frequent benign epithelial tumour of oral cavity, its biological potential for malignant transformation is still to be evaluated. The aim of the study was to correlate PCNA and P53 expression in 55 oral papillomas with some clinicopathological variables. The tissue samples were stained with H+E and by immunohistochemistry for PCNA and P53 protein. Staining patterns were assessed semiquantitatively and correlated with each other and grade of tumour epithelial dysplasia, tumour size, localization well patient age and sex. PCNA immunostaining was positive 43 (78%) oral papillomas. P53 immunohistochemical reaction was positive in 38 (69%) out of 55 epithelial tumours. Positive relationship between PCNA and P53 expression was observed as well as between PCNA immunostaining and grade of epithelial dysplasia. There was no statistically significant relationships between PCNA, P53 immunohistochemical positivity and papilloma size, site, patient age and sex. The results of this study suggest that immunohistochemical P53 overexpression is valuable marker of early neoplastic transformation and together with PCNA are presumed predictors for malignant transformation of oral papillomas.

Proliferating activity in oral dysplastic leasions and squamous cell carcinomas

The aim of the study was the quantitative analysis of AgNORs in oral squamous cell carcinomas as well as in dysplastic epithelial changes accompanied and not accompanied by oral squamous cell carcinomas. AgNOR proteins were visualized in histological slides using silver impregnation technique according to D. Ploton. In each sample 100 cell nuclei were assessed. The study used 54 cases of proliferating oral epithelial changes divided into 3 groups: group I consisting of 13 cases of dysplastic lesions not accompanied by oral squamous cell carcinomas; group II (a total of 18 cases) containing dysplastic lesions situated in the vicinity of oral carcinomas and group III (23 cases) with oral squamous cell carcinomas. Statistically significant differences were found between groups with mild dysplasia and groups with severe dysplasia as well as squamous cell carcinomas. Statistical analysis did not show any differences in the number of AgNORs between squamous cell carcinomas and epithelial lesions with severe dysplasia. Our results demonstrate that the analysis of AgNORs expression can serve only as an additional parameter to evaluate the potential of malignant transformation.

Immunoreactivity of neuroendocrine cells in the respiratory tract in rats with experimental uremia after thyroparathyroidectomy

Animals with experimental uremia, which underwent thyroparathyroidectomy, reveal numerous metabolic disorders that can influence morphology and activity of endocrine cells of the scattered neuroendocrine system. The aim of the study was the evaluation of the influence of thyroparathyroidectomy in rats with chronic renal failure on APUD system cells localized in the respiratory tract. The examination was conducted on the group of 20 rats. Thyroparathyroidectomy was performed 30 days after nephrectomy. Fragments of the lungs and trachea were collected 14 days after the operation. Routinely prepared paraffin sections were stained with H+E and with silver method. The immunohistochemical reactions were conducted with the use of antibodies against calcitonin (CT), synaptophysin (SPh), somatostatine (ST), and neuron-specific enolase (NSE) The results were estimated in light microscope on the basis of stain reaction of endocrine cells. Our examination showed that chronic renal failure affects the functioning of endocrine cells. We also observed the increase in APUD system cell number in the trachea and the lungs after thyroparathyroidectomy in uremic rats.

Pulmonary neuroendocrine cells in physiology and pathology

Pulmonary neuroendocrine cells are scant and widespread within the pulmonary epithelium. The function they play is not fully known, more studies are needed to clearly define it. They have been implicated however, as either the culprit or victim of many pulmonary diseases. That is the reason, why so many scientists take interest in the pulmonary neuroendocrine system. This paper reviews current information regarding pulmonary neuroendocrine cells, their origin, morphology, ontogeny, role, neuroendocrine cell markers, dysplasia and hyperplasia of pulmonary neuroendocrine cells in various conditions, diffuse idiopathic pulmonary neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia, typical carcinoid, atypical carcinoid, small-cell lung carcinoma, large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma and the unusual spectrum of pulmonary neuroendocrine tumours.

Gastric endocrine cells in rats with uremia and after thyroparathyroidectomy

The decrease in active kidney parenchyma amount causes disorders in hormone secretion processes and their inactivation failure. Experimental thyroparathyroidectomy is connected with an abrupt reduction in endocrine cells and hormones produced by them, which can be a stimulating factor as far as the increase and intensity of endocrine gastric cells activity is concerned. The aim of the study was the histomorphological and immunohistochemical evaluation of these cells in the gastric pylorus. Thyroparathyroidectomy was performed in rats 30 days after nephrectomy. Fragments of gastric pylorus were collected 14 days after the operation. Paraffin sections were stained with H+E and silver method. Immunohistochemical reactions were conducted using antibodies against calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), somatostatin (ST), synaptophysin (SPh), neuron-specific enolase (NSE), and chromogranin (CgA). The results showed an increase in number of endocrine cells in stomachs of rats in experimental group as compared to controls. Endocrine cells were larger and contained more secretory granules.

Fractal geometric analysis of lung cancer angiogenic patterns

For medical images, the fractal dimension D may be used as an index of irregularity. The angiogenesis patterns of lung cancer were analysed by means of the perimeter-area and box counting algorithms. The fractal nature of all images in the sense of the perimeter-area method and of 68% images in the sense of the box-counting method suggest the possibility to use the fractal dimension as a new non-morphometric parameter evaluating angiogenic processes in neoplasms.

Ethanol and N-acetylcysteine influence on the development of liver changes in experimental methanol intoxication

The evaluation of ethanol and N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) influence on histopathological changes in rat liver intoxicated with 3 g of methanol/kg b.w. was conducted, based on morphological examinations in light and electron microscope. The rats received intragastrically 3.0 g of methanol/kg b.w. as a 50% solution, 10% ethanol for 24 hours before methanol and next 48 hours after methanol ingestion and NAC (150 mg/kg b.w.) after 15 min. methanol administrated. The results indicate that methanol intoxication causes pronounced morphological changes in the examined organ. Ethanol administered to methanol-intoxicated rats caused intensification of certain parameters of hepatocytes morphological damage. A simultaneous administration of methanol and NAC resulted in a lower degree of parenchymal damage.