Morphology and Aquaporin Immunohistochemistry of the Uterine Tube of Saanen Goats (Capra hircus): Comparison Throughout the Reproductive Cycle

The expression of six different aquaporins (AQP1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 9), integral membrane water channels that facilitate bi-directional passive movement of water, was investigated by immunohistochemistry in the uterine tube of pre-pubertal and adult Saanen goats (Capra hircus), comparing the different phases of the oestrous cycle. Regional morphology and secretory processes were markedly different during the goat oestrous cycle. The tested AQP molecules showed different expression patterns in comparison with already studied species. AQP1-immunoreactivity was evidenced at the endothelium of blood vessels and in nerve fibres, regardless of the tubal tract and cycle period. AQP4-immunoreactivity was shown on the lateral plasmalemma in the basal third of the epithelial cells at infundibulum and ampulla level in the cycling goats, more evidently during follicular than during luteal phase. No AQP4-immunoreactivity was noticed at the level of the isthmus region, regardless of the cycle phase. AQP5-immunoreactivity, localized at the apical surface of epithelial cells, increased from pre-puberty to adulthood. Thereafter, AQP5-immunoreactivity was prominent during the follicular phase, when it strongly decorated the apical plasmalemma of all epithelial cells at ampullary level. During luteal phase, immunoreactivity was discontinuous, being weak to strong at the apex of the secretory cells protruding into the lumen. In the isthmus region, the strongest AQP5-immunoreactivity was seen during follicular phase, with a clear localization in the apical plasmalemma of all the epithelial cells and also on the lateral plasmalemma. AQP2, 3 and 9 were undetectable all along the goat uterine tube. Likely, a collaboration of different AQP molecules sustains the fluid production in the goat uterine tube. AQP1-mediated transudation from the blood capillaries, together with permeation of the epithelium by AQP4 in the basal rim of the epithelial cells and final intervening of apical AQP5, could be involved in fluid production as well as in secretory processes.

The urothelium: anatomy, review of the literature, perspectives for veterinary medicine

Over time, much knowledge has been accumulated about the active role of the urothelium, principally in rodents and human. Far from being a mere passive barrier, this specialized epithelium can alter the ion and protein composition of the urine, is able to sense and respond to mechanical stimuli such as pressure, and react to mechanical stimuli by epithelial cell communication with the nervous system. Most of the specialized functions of the urothelium are linked to a number of morpho-physiologic properties exhibited by the superficial umbrella cells, including specialized membrane lipids, asymmetric unit membrane particles and a plasmalemma with stiff plaques which function as a barrier to most substances found in urine, thus protecting the underlying tissues. Moreover, the entire mucosa lining the low urinary tract, composed of urothelium and sub-urothelium, forms a functional transduction unit, able to respond to eso- and endogenous physical and chemical stimuli in a manner assuring an adequate functional response. This review will summarize the available information on each area of inquiry from a morpho-functional point of view. Possible considerations pertaining to species of veterinary interest are reviewed as well. The review was prepared consulting the electronic databases PubMed and Cab Abstracts and retrieving all pertinent reports and the relative reference lists, in order to identify any potential additional studies that could be included. Full-length research articles and thematic reviews were considered. Information on the urothelium of some domestic animal species was also included.

Periovulatory time in the bitch: what's new to know?: Comparison between ovarian histology and clinical features

The ability to recognize specific events happening in the ovaries during periovulatory time allows optimal management of canine reproduction. The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of vaginal cytology and blood progesterone (P4) assay to identify accurately the changes occurring at the ovarian structures, mainly during the fertile period. Tertiary follicles, corpora hemorrhagica (CHs) and corpora lutea (CLs) from forty healthy bitches undergoing ovariohysterectomy were evaluated by histo-morphometry based on their aspect, number and size. The tertiary follicles distribution (small, medium and large) was statistically different (P<0.002) among all the stages of the reproductive cycle, except for small follicles (<2mm), which were always observed from proestrus to anestrus. Very large follicles (>4mm) were predominant (P=0.008) around ovulation when P4 mean level was 6.1±1.7ng/mL. The early postovulatory estrous period was characterized by CHs (P<0.002) and P4 level of 16.7±5.9ng/mL. The end of the fertile period - start of diestrus - coincided with the development of CLs (P=0.001) associated with a P4 mean level of 73.9±9.9ng/mL. The small (P<0.001) and medium (P<0.05) follicle diameters were positively correlated with the bitch size. The number of follicles larger than 4mm was significantly lower in bitches younger than 4 years (P<0.02). This study provides insight into some critical steps in the canine reproductive processes in the periovulatory phase and the end of the fertile period, essential to plan breeding programs.

Are the basal cells of the mammalian epididymis still an enigma?

Basal cells are present in the columnar pseudostratified epithelium covering the epididymis of all mammalian species, which regulates the microenvironment where the functionally incompetent germ cells produced by the testis are matured and stored. Striking novelties have come from investigations on epididymal basal cells in the past 30–40 years. In addition to an earlier hypothesised scavenger role for basal cells, linked to their proven extratubular origin and the expression of macrophage antigens, basal cells have been shown to be involved in cell–cell cross-talk, as well as functioning as luminal sensors to regulate the activity of principal and clear cells. Involvement of basal cells in the regulation of electrolyte and water transport by principal cells was hypothesised. This control is suggested to be mediated by the local formation of prostaglandins. Members of the aquaporin (AQP) and/or aquaglyceroporin family (AQP3, AQP7 and AQP8) are also specifically expressed in the rat epididymal basal cells. Transport of glycerol and glycerylphosphorylcholine from the epithelium of the epididymis to the lumen in relation to sperm maturation may be mediated by AQP. Most probably basal cells collaborate to the building up of the blood–epididymis barrier through cell adhesion molecules, implying an involvement in immune control exerted towards sperm cells, which are foreigners in the environment in which they were produced.

Absorptive activities of the efferent ducts evaluated by the immunolocalization of aquaporin water channels and lectin histochemistry in adult cats

Ultrastructural and biochemical features of efferent ducts (EDs) are indicative of an intense absorptive activity towards the luminal fluid. This function was investigated by 1) the immunohistochemical localization of different aquaporins, integral membrane water channels that facilitate rapid passive movement of water, and 2) the histochemical localization of lectins, known to have specific affinity for glycoconjugate residues. AQP1 was mostly revealed at the apical surface and adluminal cytoplasm of non-ciliated cells and to a minor extent in their lateral plasma membrane, whereas it was absent in ciliated cells. Blood vessels showed AQP1-immunoreactivity, which was present in endothelial cells of venous vessels and capillaries and around the muscular sheath of arteries. AQP9 was expressed in the apical zone of ciliated and non-ciliated cells and in the lateral cell membrane. AQP2 and AQP5 were undetectable. Lectin histochemistry showed that non-ciliated cells contain glycans with terminal Neu5Acalpha2,3Galbeta1,3GalNAc, Neu5Acalpha2,3Galbeta1,4GlcNAc, Galbeta1,4GlcNAc, GalNAc (s-PNA, MAL II, RCA120, SBA reactivity) and with internal/terminal alphaMan (Con A affinity) at the luminal surface and the apical region. In addition, non-ciliated cells expressed oligosaccharides terminating with GalNAc and Neu5Acalpha2,6Gal/GalNAc (SNA reactivity) in the luminal surface and the apical zone, respectively. Ciliated cells revealed glycoconjugates only on cilia, which showed terminal Neu5Acalpha2,3Galbeta1,4GlcNAc (s-RCA120 staining) and GalNAc, as well as internal/terminal alphaMan and GlcNAc (s-WGA, GSA II staining). Data provide evidence for the involvement of different pathways in the bulk reabsorption of water and low molecular weight solutes by the non-ciliated cell of the cat EDs. AQP-mediated trans-cellular route can be hypothesized, together with fluid phase endocytosis mediated by the glycocalix and a well-developed endocytotic apparatus. Epithelial ciliated cells, whose main function is the movement of luminal content, might also participate in absorptive processes to a lesser extent.

Endometrial cytology and computerized morphometric analysis of epithelial nuclei: a useful tool for reproductive diagnosis in the bitch

New diagnostic approaches are required to recognize early canine hypofertility or infertility. We suggest that the identification of different cytologic types, cellular aspects, and nuclear features of the endometrial epithelial cells may be suitable for this purpose. This study was performed on the bitch (Canis familiaris) during the physiologic reproductive cycle and in uterine diseases. We also applied computerized cytomorphometry to evaluate nuclear area, perimeter, diameter, density, aspect, and roundness of endometrial epithelial cells in healthy dogs (N=35) at different stages of the reproductive cycle (before puberty, during proestrus, estrus, diestrus, and anestrus) and in bitches affected by uterine disorders (N=10). The stage of the estrous cycle was determined by vaginal cytology and progesterone evaluation and also confirmed by clinical and histologic observations. Samples for endometrial cytology were collected in vivo by uterine flushing with transcervical uterine cannulation. After uterine sampling, each dog underwent OHE or uterine stump revision. Cytologic analyses were compared with histologic examinations to verify the uterine condition. The uterine cellular population was represented by endometrial epithelial cells, erythrocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes, eosinophils, macrophages, plasma cells, and cervical or incidental vaginal cells. Bacteria and amorphous material were observed. The proportion of different cells and nuclear features in the cytologic samples varied throughout the stages of the reproductive cycle and between normal and pathologic uterine conditions. The computer-assisted nuclear morphometry, performed in cytologic specimens by means of the six nuclear parameters chosen to evaluate the endometrial epithelial cell population, proved to be useful for determining the stage of the reproductive cycle. Furthermore, this system was demonstrated to be a valid support to diagnose and distinguish uterine disorders.

An insight into testis and gubernaculum dynamics of INSL3 - RXFP2 signalling during testicular descent in the dog

Insulin-like 3 (INSL3) plays a prominent role in male development and is supposed to induce the growth of the gubernaculum testis (g.t.), thus being directly involved in testicular descent in humans and rodents. This happens through activation of the RXFP2 receptor (GREAT or LGR8). The INSL3–RXFP2 complex is reputed to play an additional paracrine role in the testis, possibly acting as part of an autocrine feedback loop. The present work provides evidence of the immunolocalisation of INSL3 in the Leydig cells of canine fetuses and of the expression of RXFP2 receptor in different tissues of the g.t. of the same specimens. RXFP2 was localised at the cell membrane of g.t. muscle and connective cells, as well as in the epithelial cells of the developing excurrent ducts. Notably, RXFP2 immunoreactivity of the g.t. was limited to fetuses at ~35–45 days of gestation, which is also the fetal period when the endocrine compartment of the dog testis is active endocrinologically, as confirmed by the anti-P450c17 and anti-INSL3 immunoreactivities of the fetal Leydig cells, and by anti-Müllerian hormone immunoreactivity of the Sertoli cells. The same immunoreactivities were also evaluated in the testes of cryptorchid dogs of different ages. RXFP2 immunoreactivity was absent from genital tracts of cryptorchid testes and g.t. remnants.

Can nutraceuticals affect the structure of intestinal mucosa? Qualitative and quantitative microanatomy in L-glutamine diet-supplemented weaning piglets

Weaning piglets were fed an L-glutamine-supplemented diet with the aim of monitoring the effects on gut mucosal turnover and barrier function, to elucidate the potential preventive or therapeutic roles of glutamine as a nutraceutical or 'functional food'. Sixteen female weaning piglets were divided into two groups, which were fed a control diet (Ctr group: n = 8) or a Ctr + 0.5% L-glutamine diet (G group: n = 8) for 28 days. In the ileum of group G piglets the villus height (V) and crypt depth (C) were increased, and the V:C ratio was decreased (p < 0.01). The PCNA and TUNEL immunoreactivities were also tested. The number of mitotic mucosal cells (M) was increased, and that of mucosal cells with apoptotic nuclei (A) decreased in such a way that the A:M index diminished (p < 0.01). The A:M index also decreased at the level of some components of the gut-associated lymphatic tissue (GALT), thus indicating a positive effect on the gut barrier function. This trial showed that L: -glutamine supplementation influenced some morphofunctional characteristics of piglet ileal mucosa. These data corroborate the nutraceutical role of glutamine as a trophic agent for mucosal repair, improvement of barrier function and gut adaptation in the swine per se and as an animal model.

A collaboration of aquaporins handles water transport in relation to the estrous cycle in the bitch uterus

Fluid movement through uterine cell membranes is crucial, as it can modulate the tissue imbibition pattern in the different phases of the estrous cycle. To gain insight into the mechanisms underlying steroid-controlled water handling, the presence and distribution of aquaporins (AQPs), integral membrane channel proteins permitting rapid passive water movement, was explored in bitch uterine tissues. Immunohistochemistry and Western immunoblot analysis were used to study the presence of AQP1, AQP2, and AQP5 in the layers of the bitch uterine wall during the different estrous phases. Presence of endothelial nitric oxide-generating enzyme NO synthase (NOS3) was also investigated, as it is known that the vasodilator NOS3 might be involved in the development of uterine edema. The results demonstrated the following: (1) AQP1, AQP2, and AQP5 were present in the uterus of cycling bitches. (2) AQP1 was localized within uterine mesometrial, myometrial, and endometrial blood vessels and in the circular and longitudinal layers of myometrium. AQP1 localization and expression were unaffected by the estrous cycle. (3) The estrogenic milieu was probably at the basis of AQP2 expression in the glandular and luminal epithelium of the endometrium. (4) AQP5 water channels were present in the apical plasma membrane of uterine epithelial cells in coincidence with plasma progesterone increase. (5) NOS3 was localized in the myometrial and epithelial tissues as well as in blood vessels indicating a contribution of this vasoactive peptide to the uterine imbibition processes. Thus, we can hypothesize that a functional and distinctive collaboration exists among diverse AQPs in water handling during the different functional uterine phases.

Mutations in the RSPO1 coding region are not the main cause of canine SRY-negative XX sex reversal in several breeds

This report details a case of SRY-negative XX sex reversal in a mixed breed dog and surveys affected dogs of several breeds for mutations in RSPO1 coding regions. Genomic DNA from the mixed breed case was evaluated for mutations in candidate genes. Sequencing identified a homozygous G to A transition in RSPO1 exon 4 that changes a highly conserved amino acid codon in the thrombospondin domain. The possibility that this was a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) could not be excluded by genotyping family members. Therefore, the coding region of RSPO1 was sequenced in a survey of affected dogs, which identified a T to C transition (exon 3) in some, the above G to A transition (exon 4) in others, and no change in the remaining affected dogs. Genotypes at these base pair positions were not uniquely associated with the affected phenotype in any breed, indicating the identified transitions are most likely SNPs, not causative mutations for this canine disorder. However, the possibility that polymorphisms play a modifier role, such as changing threshold or severity of phenotypic expression in a mixed breed dog, cannot be excluded. This study emphasizes the importance of canine pedigree, breed, and population studies in evaluating candidate mutations.

Immunohistochemical study of the pre- and postnatal innervation of the dog lower urinary tract: morphological aspects at the basis of the consolidation of the micturition reflex

Immunohistochemical studies were performed on male and female bladder and urethra collected from 4 adults dogs and 10 foetal specimens with crown-rump length from 53 to 155 mm (medium-sized breeds, presumptive 38 days of gestation to term). A panel of antisera was tested, including PGP 9.5 to describe the general intramural innervation, ChAT and TH to depict the cholinergic and nor-adrenergic components and NOS1, CGRP, SP, NPY, VIP, SOM, GAL, 5-HT to investigate the possible nitrergic, peptidergic and aminergic ones. A rich cholinergic innervation was present in adult bladder and urethra, along with a lesser number of adrenergic nerves and a small number of nitrergic ones. Either bladder or urethra received numerous CGRP-, SP-, NPY-, VIP-containing nerve fibres which were distributed throughout the muscle layers. All over the lower urinary tract strong to weak ChAT-, CGRP-, SP- and NPY-immunoreactivity was detected in intramural ganglia, in peripheral nerve bundles and around blood vessels. 5-HT-immunoreactive endocrine cells were present in the urethral epithelium. Early foetal organs were supplied only by cholinergic nerve fibres. Few NOS-, CGRP- and SP-ergic components appeared at the end of pregnancy. It can be guessed that sensory mediators such as CGRP and SP increase in postnatal ages while other neuropeptides, such as NPY and VIP, appear only after birth, as the urinary reflex consolidates.

Characterization of a population of unique granular lymphocytes in a bitch deciduoma, using a panel of histo- and immunohistochemical markers

The ovaries and uterus were collected after ovariohysterectomy from a 16-month-old Labrador bitch in diestrus that never mated. Discrete swellings were found in the uterine horns, with the macroscopic appearance of normal early pregnancy. At histologic examination, the endometrium, devoid of any conceptus and chorion, showed a marked proliferation, on the basis of which a diagnosis of deciduoma was made. A remarkable population of stromal eosinophilic granular lymphocytes was present, especially in the axis of the endometrial folds. Periodic acid-Schiff and Dolichos biflorus-lectin histochemical reaction and a panel of 10 immunohistochemical markers were used to characterize eosinophilic granular cells. Our findings allowed us to compare these granular cells with the granulated decidual cells, whose presence was until now described only in primates, rodents, or a few other epitheliochorial species. On the basis of our results, the importance of eosinophilic granular cells in a decidualization process is hypothesized to occur also in the bitch.

Gut-trophic feed additives and their effects upon the gut structure and intestinal metabolism. State of the art in the pig, and perspectives towards humans

The correct functional development of the gastrointestinal tract is of special importance during the neonatal and weaning phases of reared piglets. Nutrition is obviously a critical determinant in the growth of the gut in the young swine. The mucosal epithelium of the small intestine is reputed anatomically and functionally immature in neonatal pigs, a feature that appears to be exacerbated at weaning, when a colonization of the gut occurs by "new" microorganisms entering the alimentary canal with the solid feed. This frequently exposes piglets to diarrhoeic syndromes and other intestinal disturbances. Functional feed additives, also called nutraceuticals, appear as promising alternative substances to the use of chemotherapeutics as growth promoters in the rearing farm, above all considering the near banning of them by the European Parliament in the view of reducing antibiotic resistance phenomena in human therapies. Several feed additives are available that may play a role in the pig nutritional plan because of their trophic and cyto-protective effects on the gastrointestinal apparatus. Paying special attention to the quantitative consequences (histometry) upon the gut of the examined dietary supplements, this review, even if not fully exhaustive, will focus on the function (and possibly the mechanism/s of action) of certain gut-trophic nutrient substrates. This in turn will sustain the potential use of these substances in human therapy, especially the one directed at resolving intestinal diseases, both in adult and infant ages. In nutritional studies as well as in other biomedical research fields, the swine is an excellent animal model.

Histochemistry of glycoconjugates in mucous cells of Salmo trutta uninfected and naturally parasitized with intestinal helminths

Mucus secreted onto the surface of the intestine forms a physical barrier to invading parasites so that a possible attachment of helminths to the surface is prevented and their expulsion by peristalsis facilitated. In mammals, intestinal parasites induce hyperplasia and hypertrophy of intestine goblet cells and provoke changes in the mucus composition. In fish, this topic has received less attention. In the present investigation, histochemical methods were employed to compose intestinal mucous cell numbers and their glycoconjugate composition were compared by uninfected brown trout Salmo trutta and in S. trutta parasitized with Cyathocephalus truncatus or Pomphorhynchus laevis. When P. laevis was present in the intestine of the brown trout, the total mucous cell number, and the number of mucous cells containing acid or mixed glycoconjugates were significantly enhanced. No significant change in the total mucous cell number was detected in the intestine of fish parasitized with C. truncatus in comparison with uninfected brown trout. A significant increase was observed in the number of both acid (especially sulphated) and mixed glycoconjugates containing mucous cells as well as a significant decrease in the number of neutral glycoconjugates containing mucous cells. When intestinal helminths were present, the thickness of the adherent mucous gel increased. In a limited number of other fish species, the occurrence of gill and intestinal parasites has been reported to increase the mucosal glycoconjugate secretions. Our study is the first quantitative report on the effects of intestinal helminths on the density of mucous cells and mucus composition in a fish species.

Response of the gut neuroendocrine system of Leuciscus cephalus (L.) to the presence of Pomphorhynchus laevis Müller, 1776 (Acanthocephala)

Immunohistochemical tests were applied to sections of intestine of uninfected and Pomphorhynchus laevis Muller-infected chub, Leuciscus cephalus (L.) using 15 different antisera. Nerve cell bodies and fibres immunoreactive (IR) to the anti-bombesin, -Cholecystokinin-8 (CCK-8), -galanin, -Gastrin-Releasing Peptide (-GRP), -Nitric Oxide Synthase (-NOS), -Substance P (-SP), and -Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (-VIP) sera were observed in the myenteric plexus of uninfected chub. The density of nerve components immunoreactive to these antisera was high in the intestine of the infected fish, especially near the site of attachment. Moreover, numerous nerve fibres, immunoreactive to anti-bombesin, -GRP, -galanin, -SP, and -VIP sera, were encountered in the connective tissue capsule surrounding the bulb and proboscis of P. laevis. The occurrence of P. laevis in the chub gut significantly increased the number of endocrine cells per intestinal fold immunoreactive to galanin, met-enkephalin and leu-enkephalin antisera. CCK-8, Neuropeptide Y and glucagon-like immunoreactive cells were less numerous in the intestine of infected chub. A large number of cells in the tunica propria-submucosa of L. cephalus infected with P. laevis were immunoreactive to anti-serotonin and -leu-enkephalin sera.

Endocrine-paracrine cells of the male urogenital apparatus: a comparative histochemical and immunohistochemical study in some domestic ungulates

Specimens of testis, excurrent duct including the male accessory glands and urethra, were studied in boars, bulls, horses and donkeys, in order to localize endocrine/paracrine cells. Silver impregnation methods were used to test the argentaffinity and/or argyrophilia of cells. Immunoreactivities to chromogranin A, 5-hydroxytryptamine, somatostatin, [met]- and [leu]- enkephalins, gastrin-releasing peptide, calcitonin gene-related peptide, neuropeptide Y, substance P, vasoactive intestinal peptide, beta-endorphin antisera were tested by a streptavidin-biotin method. In the testis, epididymis, ductus deferens and vesicular gland no endocrine cells were found in any of the animals studied. Chromogranin-A, serotonin, somatostatin and enkephalins were present in endocrine/paracrine cells in the surface or glandular epithelia, whereas all other antisera gave negative results. In the prostatic complex and the urethral epithelium, the most consistent number of endocrine cells was serotonin-immunoreactive. Few cells were also argentaffin and a very limited number of them showed argyrophily and chromogranin-A immunoreactivity. Somatostatin-and enkephalin-immunoreactive cells were rare in the bull and boar, absent in stallions. This comparative study carried out on different species of domestic ungulates has shown deeply different immunophenotypes, even comparing species that are in a very close zoological relationship with one another, such as the horse and the donkey.

Cholinergic, nitrergic and peptidergic (Substance P- and CGRP-utilizing) innervation of the horse intestine. A histochemical and immunohistochemical study

The small and large intestine of adult horses were histochemically and immunohistochemically investigated in order to evidence components of the intramural nervous system. The general structural organization of the intramural nervous system was examined by using Nissl-thionin staining as well as the anti-neurofilament 200 (NF200) immunoreaction, which demonstrated the presence of neurons in the submucous as well as myenteric plexuses. The additional presence of subserosal ganglia was shown in the large intestine. Acetylcholinesterase (AChEase) activity was observed in both the submucous and myenteric plexuses. Localization of acetylcholine-utilizing neurons was also evidenced by immunohistochemical reactions for choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) and vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT). With both histochemistry and immunohistochemistry possible cholinergic nerve fibres were detected in the inner musculature. The two possible cholinergic co-mediators Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) and Substance P (SP) have been investigated by an immunohistochemical approach. CGRP immunoreactivity was detected in roundish nerve cell bodies as well as in nerve fibres of the submucous plexus, whereas SP immunoreactivity was evidenced in nerve fibres of the tunica mucosa, in nerve cell bodies and fibres of the submucous plexus and in nerve fibres of the myenteric plexus. NADPH-diaphorase reactivity, which is linked to the synthesis and release of nitric oxide, was detected in nerve cell bodies and nerve fibres of both the submucous and myenteric plexuses as well as in a subserosal localization of the large intestine. The nitrergic components were confirmed by the anti-NOS (nitric oxide synthase) immunoreaction. Results are compared with those of other mammals and related to the complex intestinal horse physiology and pathophysiology.

The presence of a galanin-like peptide in the gut neuroendocrine system of Lampetra fluviatilis and Acipenser transmontanus: an immunohistochemical study

Galanin is a brain-gut neuropeptide present in the central and peripheral nervous systems of vertebrates. In the present survey, the galaninergic and the diffuse endocrine systems of the alimentary canal of the river lamprey, Lampetra fluviatilis, and the white sturgeon, Acipenser transmontanus, were studied by immunohistochemistry. The results show the presence of galanin-like immunoreactive endocrine cells in the gut of L. fluviatilis. In addition, a galanin-like immunoreactivity was detected in enteric intramural neurons of both species. It is conceivable that the galaninergic system plays in both species a role in the regulation of the gut muscle contractility and in the modulation of mucosal secretive/absorptive processes. In A. transmontanus, the presence of galanin-like immunoreactive nerve fibres associated with components of the gut associated-lymphoid tissue is possibly correlated with a control of the defensive events at this site. The presence of a galanin-like immunoreactivity in the neuroendocrine system of these two ancient fishes confirms the hypothesis on the early occurrence of this regulative molecule in the gastro-enteric system of vertebrates.

The influence of different fibrous supplements in the diet on ruminal histology and histometry in veal calves

The aim of this study was to determine whether the administration of four different solid feeds would influence selected morphological and morpho-functional aspects of the rumen mucosa in veal calves. The fibrous supplementation of the liquid diet of veal calves has been provided by recent EU formulation (EC Council Directive 91/629/1991; EC Council Directive 97/2/1997). Twenty-five Holstein calves were assigned to either exclusively liquid diet (milk replacer, control), or pelleted feed, corn silage, extruded feed, dried corn silage. The morpho-functional effects of the fibre-containing diets were examined evaluating histological and histometrical characteristics of ruminal mucosa after the slaughter of calves. There were slight to severe histological abnormalities in the rumens of all animals examined. The severe histological abnormalities were present in calves given pelleted feed, corn silage, and extruded feed. Dried corn silage caused less ruminal damage. We found that the length and epithelial thickness of ruminal papillae were higher in control veal calves than in dietary fibre-supplemented animals. The results of the present study, even if partially, support the EU prescription in the use of fibre diets in veal calves as integration of the traditional milk replacer diet.

Influence of enteric helminths on the distribution of intestinal endocrine cells belonging to the diffuse endocrine system in brown trout, Salmo trutta L

The presence of intestinal helminths in the alimentary canal of brown trout, Salmo trutta L., can alter the number of cells that synthesize modulatory peptides. A total of 167 brown trout were collected from tributaries of the River Brenta (northern Italy), of which 119 (71.3%) specimens were infected with enteric helminths, 28 with the acanthocephalan Pomphorhynchus laevis Müller, 1776 with intensity of infection ranging from 1 to 162 (18.57 +/- 30.79) worms per host and 67 fish with the cestode Cyathocephalus truncatus Pallas, 1781. Intensity of infection with C. truncatus ranged from 1 to 85 (6.87 +/- 12.59) per fish. In 24 fish there were concurrent infections of both species of helminths. The caecal and middle regions of the intestine were the most heavily parasitized. Immunohistochemical tests showed a decrease in endocrine cells (ECs) of the diffuse endocrine system (DES) positive to gastrin, cholecystokinin-8, bombesin and secretin antisera in the intestine of the infected trout. The number of ECs immunoreactive to anti-glucagon serum did not show differences in the digestive tract of uninfected brown trout and in conspecifics parasitized with P. laevis. The density of cells containing glucagon-like material was low in the fish parasitized with C. truncatus. The results suggest that endoparasitic helminths induce alterations in the DES of infected S. trutta.

Localization of IGF-I, IGF-I receptor, and IGFBP-2 in developing Umbrina cirrosa (Pisces: Osteichthyes)

In this study, the distribution of IGF-I, IGF type I receptor (IGF-IR), and IGF-binding protein 2 (IGFBP-2) was investigated during larval and post-larval developmental stages of the shi drum (Umbrina cirrosa) by immunohistochemistry using antisera raised against Sparus aurata IGF-I and IGF-IR, and against mouse IGFBP-2. Immunoreactivity of the mitogenic marker PCNA (proliferating cell nuclear antigen) was used for assessment of cellular proliferation. Distribution of IGF-I mRNA was studied by in situ hybridization. IGF-I immunoreactivity was detected in liver and developing intestine already in 1-5 day post-hatching larvae. From day 11, immunostaining in the intestine was evident in the enterocytes of the anterior intestine and in the apical zone of the epithelium of developing posterior intestine. Positive reaction with IGF-I antibody was also detected in chondrocytes, in the epithelium of the skin, gills and in the central nervous system (CNS), and lateral muscle. At hatching IGF-IR immunoreactivity was already detectable in developing CNS, notochord, and skin. From day 6 immunostaining was evident in the olfactory epithelium, in eyes and from day 11 in the developing olfactory bulbs and CNS. Positive reaction with IGF-IR antibody was also detected in chondrocytes, in the epithelium of the skin, gills, heart, and in the lateral muscle. Immunoreactive IGFBP-2, as detected by anti-mouse IGFBP-2 antiserum, exhibited generally a similar distribution pattern to that of IGF-I and IGF-IR. In situ hybridization, which has been performed by using riboprobes from S. aurata cDNA, revealed IGF-I mRNA in skeletal musculature, liver, and CNS. These data strongly suggest a role for the IGF system during development and growth of U. cirrosa.

Neurotransmitters, neuromodulators, and neurotrophin receptors in the gut of pantex, a hybrid sparid fish (Pagrus major x Dentex dentex). Localizations in the enteric nervous and endocrine systems

The gut of Pantex, a sparid hybrid fish (Pagrus major x Dentex dentex) with a great potential importance for the Italian aquaculture, was histochemically and immunohistochemically investigated in order to evidence components of the intramural nervous and diffuse endocrine systems. The general structural aspects of the intramural nervous system were shown by the Nissl-thionin staining. As in most other fish, it was only organized in the myenteric plexus. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was observed in both nerve cell bodies and terminals all along the gut. The NADPH-diaphorase reactivity too, possibly linked to the synthesis and release of nitric oxide, was present in nerve cell bodies and nerve terminals of the oesophagus, stomach and intestine. In addition, the intramural nervous system was shown to contain Trk (tyrosinekinase) receptors for neurotrophin, as evidenced by Trk A-, Trk B- and Trk C-like immunoreactivities, thus suggesting an involvement of neurotrophin in the function of this system. Trk B- and Trk C-like immunoreactivities were detected in epithelial endocrine cells, too. The additional presence of serotonin- and metenkephalin-like immunoreactivities in numerous endocrine cells in the epithelial layers of the stomach and intestine was showed.

Neurotransmitters and putative neuromodulators in the gut of Anguilla anguilla (L.). Localizations in the enteric nervous and endocrine systems

The gut of silver eels (Anguilla anguilla L.) was investigated in order to describe both the cholinergic and adrenergic intramural innervations, and the localization of possible accessory neuromediators. Histochemical reactions for the demonstration of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate, reduced form-(NADPH-)diaphorase and acetylcholinesterase (AChEase) were performed, as well as the immunohistochemical testing of tyrosine hydroxylase, met-enkephalin, substance P, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), bombesin, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), neuropeptide Y (NPY), somatostatin, cholecystokinin-octapeptide (CCK-8), serotonin, cholineacetyl transferase. The results evidenced a different pattern in comparison with other vertebrates, namely mammals, and with other fish. Both NADPH-diaphorase and AChEase activities were histochemically detected all along the gut in the myenteric plexus, the inner musculature and the propria-submucosa. Tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity was observed in the intestinal tract only, both in the myenteric plexus and in the inner musculature. Several neuropeptides (metenkephalin, CGRP, bombesin, substance P, VIP, NPY, somatostatin) were, in addition, detected in the intramural innervation; some of them also in epithelial cells of the diffuse endocrine system (met-enkephalin, substance P, NPY, somatostatin). Serotonin was only present in endocrine cells. Tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity was present in localizations similar to those of NADPH-diaphorase-reactivity, and in the same nerve bundles in which substance P- and CGRP-like-immunoreactivities were detectable in the intestinal tract. In addition, NADPH-diaphorase-reactive neurons showed an anatomical relationship with AChEase-reactive nerve terminals, and a similar relationship existed between the latter and substance P-like immunoreactivity.

A georeferenced river quality model

Water quality models have reached a high degree of sophistication, but their weak side remains user interface and output georeferencing. The aim of this paper is to propose an interfacing procedure between two widespread but specialised programming environments: ArcVIEW as a Geographical Information System (GIS) and Matlab as a scientific programming tool for numerical analysis. The proposed solution is based on a Dynamic Data Exchange (DDE) between the two programs in order to operate a Matlab-based water quality model from within the GIS environment. It is shown how special GIS objects must be created and how they operate to achieve the goal of having quality data created by the model placed on a geographical map, together with other site features.

Upregulation of interleukin-10 and inhibition of alloantigen responses by transferrin and transferrin-derived glycans

Previous studies have shown that critically timed administration of transferrin (Tf) facilitates induction of immunologic unresponsiveness. Here, we determined in mixed leukocyte culture (MLC) and in concanavalin A (ConA)-driven cultures the effect of exogenous Tf and Tf-derived glycans (Tf-Gly) on lymphocyte proliferation. In cultures of human blood lymphocytes, Tf inhibited selectively alloantigen-driven proliferation in MLC, but not ConA-stimulated lymphocyte proliferation. Deglycosylation of Tf abrogated the inhibitory effect of Tf on alloantigen-induced lymphocyte proliferation, and, consistent with a role for glycans, an effect qualitatively and quantitatively similar to Tf was exerted by purified Tf-Gly. Glycans isolated from other proteins, for example, immunoglobulin G (IgG) or fibrinogen, failed to inhibit alloantigen-induced proliferation selectively. Rather, they suppressed lymphocyte proliferation in a non-specific manner. Determination of cytokines in MLC supernatant showed a downregulation of interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), IL-2, and IL-12 (p40), along with an upregulation of IL-10, a pattern entirely consistent with the observed effects of Tf and Tf-Gly on alloantigen-induced lymphocyte proliferation. The effect of Tf on MLC was directly IL-10-dependent. IL-10 levels were inversely correlated with lymphocyte proliferation and CD86 expression. Neutralization of IL-10 by anti-IL-10 monoclonal antibody (mAb) blocked the effect of Tf. The MLC-modulating effect of Tf (or Tf-Gly) was not dependent upon the Tf receptor CD71 but appeared to be mediated by a Gly-responsive receptor. These data suggest a role of Tf, and, in particular, Tf-Gly, in allo-interactions that is independent from the role of Tf in iron metabolism, and appears to involve co-stimulatory signals.

Transferrin treatment corrects aging-related immunologic and hormonal decay in old mice

Experiments were conducted to study the effect of heterologous plasma transferrins separated and purified from human plasma pools on endocrine and immune functions of old, aging mice. Two similar experiments have shown that parenteral treatment with iron and zinc-free human transferrins produces a significant improvement of immunological and endocrine functions in the aging mice toward more juvenile values. Those changes occur in the thymus and its cell subsets, in peripheral blood lymphocytes, in the restoration of juvenile levels of thyroxine, in the increase of testis weight, and in the normalization of plasma zinc levels. These totally unsuspected effects of transferrin in aging mice suggest a most important role of endogenous transferrins in the maintenance of neuroendocrine and immune functions. The mechanism remains unexplained although the basic immunoenhancing and anti-apoptotic effect of transferrin-vehiculated zinc may be relevant.

Ultrastructural features of the gut in the white sturgeon, Acipenser transmontanus

Electron-microscopic examinations of the sturgeon gut were performed. Oesophageal goblet cells were abundant in the stratified epithelium. The ultrastructural features of the secretory granules of the oesophageal and intestinal goblet cells were quite similar to those of other vertebrates. Lobules of multilocular adipose tissue were observed in the deep tunica propriasubmucosa of the oesophagus, in close association with vasculature and large fibre bundles of myelinated and unmyelinated axons. Similarly composed nerve fibre bundles were observed in the cardiac stomach, too. The presence of myelinated axons is an unusual feature in the vertebrate enteric nervous system. Cardiac and fundic zones of the stomach showed an epithelium with columnar ciliated and non-ciliated cells, the latter equipped with fuzzy microvilli. Cells lining the tubular gastric proper glands were markedly granulated. Intestinal superficial epithelium was columnar and contained ciliated, as well as non-ciliated and goblet cells. In the tunica propria all over the intestine, the presence and ultrastructure of granulated cells was in addition described. Intraepithelial granulated leukocytes were seen throughout the alimentary canal. Various types of endocrine cells were seen both in the stomach and in the intestine, the size of their granules was measured and their ultrastructure described and compared to that of mammalian cell types.

Morphological and histochemical peculiarities of the gut in the white sturgeon, Acipenser transmontanus

The gut of adult sturgeon was examined. The oesophageal mucosa contained numerous caliciform cells, synthesizing both neutral and acidic glycoconjugates, the latter of the sialylated type. The deep tunica propria-submucosa contained lobules of multilocular adipose tissue, specially abundant during the cold season. The oesophageal tunica muscularis was made up of a large sheath of striated muscle fibres, arranged orthogonally to a thin, subserous smooth muscle layer. The siphon-shaped stomach showed a ciliated epithelium in cardiac and gastric proper gland zones, where tubular glands were present in the tunica propria. The columnar cells which composed the superficial epithelium and gastric pits were demonstrated to synthesize almost exclusively neutral glycoconjugates. Appendices pyloricae constituted a glandular body equipped with intestinal mucosa. The intestinal mucosa was organized in folds, containing numerous caliciform cells which synthesized neutral or acidic glycoconjugates, the latter either of the sialylated and sulphated type. The sulphoglycoconjugates were more abundant in the caliciform cells of the distal intestinal tracts. The tunica propria-submucosa of the spiral valve (medium intestine) contained lymphatic tissue and large lymphatic follicles. A muscularis mucosae was present only in the rectum, where in addition a peculiar granular cell type was present in the superficial tunica propria-submucosa, possibly related to defensive properties. The subserous connective tissue contained pancreatic lobules all along the stomach and intestine. The enteric nervous system showed some special aspects, the most intriguing of which was the presence of large, longitudinally oriented nerve bundles in the t. propria-submucosa of oesophagus and cardiac stomach. The nerve bundles contained, near unmyelinated nerves, some myelinated nerves, as well as neuronal bodies. Both these aspects are exceptional in vertebrates and obscure in their significance. The structural and histochemical aspects we here describe are in part different from those described for other fish. Some of these special features are possibly related with special functional roles, others require a deeper insight and different approaches to clarify them functionally.

Immunolocalization of regulatory peptides and 5-HT in bovine male urogenital apparatus

Specimens of testis, excurrent duct including the accessory genital glands and urethra throughout its extension were investigated in adult bovines, in order to immunohistochemically localize both the peptidergic innervation and the epithelial cell types belonging to the diffuse endocrine system (DES). Immunoreactivities to GRP, met- and leu-enkephalins, CGRP, NPY, substance P, VIP, somatostatin, beta-endorphin and 5-HT antisera were tested by means of a labelled streptavidin-biotin (LSAB) method. Such regulatory substances were found in components of the peripheral nervous system (nerve fibers in the connective and muscular tissues, sub- and intrapithelial nerve terminals, nerve cells bodies and fibers in intramural ganglia), and in epithelial endocrine/paracrine cells. Bovine urogenital apparatus is supplied by many peptide-containing nerves, which contain in many localizations GRP and enkephalins, and to a lesser extent substance P, CGRP, NPY and VIP. A thin network of peptidergic nerves distributes to the musculature of the canalicular organs and accessory glands. The prostatic complex was especially rich in peptidergic innervation, and also contained somatostatin- and 5-HT-secreting endocrine cells. In addition, 5-HT-immunoreactive endocrine cells were found in the bulbourethral gland and urethral epithelium. CGRP-ir nerves were present contacting striated muscle fibers of urethra (motor end plates). The testis was devoid of any immunoreactivity. These data are compared with those obtained in a companion study carried out the same organs in two species of Equidae (Equus caballus and Equus asinus). Different patterns of immunoreactivities can be outlined in these domestic ungulates.

Different putative neuromodulators are present in the nerves which distribute to the teleost skeletal muscle

The presence of putative neuromodulators in the nerve fibres was investigated in white skeletal muscle of two teleost fish not taxonomically correlated and showing different patterns of innervation (multiple versus focal innervation). Cryostat sections of epaxial, hypaxial and adductor mandibulae (AM) muscles of Sparus aurata and Anguilla anguilla were stained histochemically for reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)-diaphorase. Other sections were used for indirect immunohistochemistry (streptavidin-biotin and rhodamine immunofluorescence methods), employing antibodies specific for putative excitatory or inhibitory peptides, including CGRP, substance P, met-enkephalin, bombesin, and VIP. In addition, ultrastructural observations were performed in order to describe the morphology of the motor endplates. A strong immunoreactivity for CGRP and substance P was found in many nerve terminals. Met-enkephalin, bombesin and VIP immunoreactivities were less frequently observed. No immunoreactivity was observed to CCK, NPY or 5-HT. NADPH-diaphorase was identified in nerve fibres of the AM complex only of A. anguilla. Electron microscopy observations evidenced more than one type of synaptic vesicle in motor endplates. Some differences in putative neuromodulator distributions were observed in the two species and muscle complexes, which may be related to the different taxonomical position as well as the different pattern of innervation of white muscle fibres.

Localization of regulatory peptides in the gastrointestinal tract of the striped dolphin, Stenella coeruleoalba (Mammalia: Cetacea). An immunohistochemical study

Samples of oesophagus, first, second and third stomach, duodenal ampulla, proximal intestine and distal intestine including rectum were obtained from striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba) stranded along Italian coasts, fixed in formalin and used for immunohistochemistry. The possible presence of neuropeptides and the biogenic amine serotonin was investigated by a labelled streptavidin-biotin method. Neuropeptide Y (NPY)-, substance P-, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)-, metenkephalin-, gastrin releasing peptide (GRP)/bombesin-, and somatostatin-like immunoreactivities were present in the submucosal as well as the myenteric plexuses, even with differences of distribution in the various organs. Vasoactive intestinal poly-peptide (VIP)-like immunoreactivity was detected in the submucosal plexus, whereas beta-endorphin- and leu-enkephalin-like immunoreactivities were shown in the myenteric plexus only. NPY-, substance P-, CGRP- and VIP-like-immunoreactivities were also observed in perivascular nerve fibres. In addition, VIP-, GRP- and somatostatin-like immunoreactivities were detected in myelinated nervous bundles. These were localized in the submucosal and muscular layers all along the gastrointestinal tract, and possibly sustain an exceptionally rapid response of the target structures. It is note-worthy that peptidergic axons in the wall of the gut of the majority of mammals are unmyelinated. A somatostatin-like peptide was identified in epithelial cells only in the second stomach, whereas in terrestrial mammals this endocrine cell type occurs widely. Immunoreactivity to serotonin was never detected, and this is a further difference in comparison with the majority of other mammals.

Localization of regulatory peptides in the male urogenital apparatus of domestic equidae: a comparative immunohistochemical study in Equus caballus and Equus asinus

An immunohistochemical study was carried out on specimens of testis, excurrent duct including the male accessory glands and urethra in its various tracts in the horse and the donkey, in order to localize nine regulatory peptides. Immunoreactivities were tested by means of Labelled Strept Avidin-Biotin (LSAB) method. The study has shown that Equine male genitalia are supplied by many peptide immunoreactive nerves containing NPY-, VIP-, leu- and met-Enkephalin-, Substance P-, CGRP- and Bombesin/GRP-like peptides, each of them having a characteristic distribution pattern. These neurotransmitters were localized in nerve fibers running in the connective tissue or in contact with the smooth muscle cells, as well as in sub- and intraepithelial nerve terminals, and in perivascular nerve fibers. In addition, leu- and met-Enkephalin-like-immunoreactive endocrine cells were shown in the bulbourethral gland of the horse. In both species it was evident that an extensive utilization of NPY and VIP exists. A contingent of NPY- and VIP-ir nerve fibers may have an intrinsic origin. The other regulatory peptides tested show a characteristic distribution pattern, limited to some organs and peculiar to each of the two species of Equidae. Differences observed comparing E. caballus and E. asinus might be related to the species-specific balance of the accessory neurotransmitters which in turn accompany adrenergic innervation. In both species it is noteworthy the complete absence of any regulatory peptide in the testis, with the exception of the perivascular localization of NPY-ir nerve fibers.

Unresponsiveness to human leukocytes in immunosuppressed mice by combined donor-derived human transferrin and antigens

Previous work on the facilitation of xenogeneic and allogeneic bone marrow engraftment in irradiated mice and dogs with transferrins allowed the development of a model for induction of an apparently durable state of immunological unresponsiveness or 'tolerance' in chemically immunosuppressed mice. The system is based on the simultaneous and combined administration of donor-derived cell antigens, namely human leukocytes, and specific donor-derived or plasma pool human transferrin into BALB/c or C57BL/6 mice previously treated with prednisolone and cyclophosphamide on day 0 and day 1 of the experiment. A properly timed presentation of both donor-specific or plasma pool transferrin and leukocyte antigens into the mice on day 3 and day 16 of the experiment, in the course of initial restoration of their lymphohaemopoietic tissues and cells after severe immunosuppression, results 1-3 months later, in their inability to 'recognize' human donor lymphocytes and to mount an immediate or a delayed-type immune response against human antigens. This durable state of unresponsiveness was evaluated by a complement-mediated cytotoxicity assay, with a mixed lymphocyte culture method and confirmed by the abrogation of the humoral (antibody response to human erythrocytes) and of the cell-mediated (popliteal lymph node test) immune responses in vivo. Our findings demonstrate the capacity of human plasma-derived transferrins to induce a state of durable unresponsiveness (xenogeneic tolerance?) in mice when administered with human antigens in the course of regeneration of stem cells in the bone marrow and lymphatic organs.

Donor-derived plasma transferrin facilitates the engraftment of xenogeneic (rat) bone marrow in irradiated mice

Endogenous factors originally found in the bone marrow (BM) and facilitating the engraftment of xenogeneic (rat) BM in lethally irradiated mice have been recently identified as transferrins (Tf). Tf have been separated and purified from plasma pools of inbred Rii/2 rats and injected in lethally irradiated BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice 1 h before the infusion of BM and for several days after BM transplantation. Other groups of irradiated mice have been similarly treated with human Tf, Tf from other strains of rats different from the BM donors and with human or rat serum albumin. A remarkable facilitation of BM engraftment and a durable graft-versus-host disease (GVHD)-free hemopoietic chimerism have been achieved in the irradiated mice when a combination of BM and Tf from the same donor rat (Rii/2) strain was used for transplantation. Durable survival and persistent chimerism were not observed in the control groups. It seems that donor Tf profoundly affects the outcome of BM transplantation when combined with donor BM. These results indicate that the mechanism by which Tf promotes engraftment of xenogeneic BM deserves investigation in order to improve this novel procedure and to extend it to other species and possibly to man.

Facilitation of DLA-incompatible marrow grafts by donor-specific serum transferrin?

Studies in mice have shown that donor-specific plasma transferrin (TF) given to the recipient in the peritransplant period facilitates engraftment of marrow from histoincompatible donors. Dogs given 920 cGy of total body irradiation (TBI) and infused with marrow from an unrelated major histocompatibility complex (DLA) different donor generally fail to engraft; only approximately 20% of dogs achieve sustained engraftment. We have now investigated in this model whether the infusion of donor-specific plasma TF would facilitate engraftment. Ten dogs were given TBI, followed at 23 h by an intravenous dose of TF, at 24 h by marrow from the same donor, and another dose of TF at 48 h; six dogs also received postgrafting methotrexate (MTX). Seven dogs (three of four without MTX, four of six with MTX) had sustained engraftment, and three dogs failed to engraft. A single dog given third-party TF failed to engraft. Among five dogs not given TF two achieved sustained engraftment. This pilot study suggests that donor-specific TF facilitates engraftment of DLA-incompatible marrow. Further studies are warranted.

"In vitro" and in animal model studies on a double virus-inactivated factor VIII concentrate

To improve the safety of plasma derived factor VIII (FVIII) concentrate, we introduced a final super heat treatment (100 degrees C for 30 min) as additional virus inactivation step applied to a lyophilized, highly purified FVIII concentrate (100 IU/mg of proteins) already virus inactivated using the solvent/detergent (S/D) method during the manufacturing process. The efficiency of the super heat treatment was demonstrated in inactivating two non-lipid enveloped viruses (Hepatitis A virus and Poliovirus 1). The loss of FVIII procoagulant activity during the super heat treatment was of about 15%, estimated both by clotting and chromogenic assays. No substantial changes were observed in physical, biochemical and immunological characteristics of the heat treated FVIII concentrate in comparison with those of the FVIII before heat treatment.

Detection of coliphages and enteroviruses in sewage and aerosol from an activated sludge wastewater treatment plant

Coliphages and enteroviruses were monitored over 12 months in sewage and air adjacent to an activated sludge plant. Both showed temporal variation but the mean count of phages in enterovirus-positive samples was not significantly different from that in enterovirus-negative samples. Hence coliphages are not necessarily a good indicator of enteroviruses in sewage and aerosols.

Ultrastructural classification of the endocrine cells of the large intestine of the calf. Cytochemical evidence of the presence of Viallis's pre-EC cells

GEP (Gastro-Entero-Pancreatic) endocrine cells were very numerous in the mucosal layer of the large intestine of the calf. Their frequence appeared to increase towards the distal portions of the gut. Endocrine cells were dispersed among epithelial cells lining intestinal glands and were frequently grouped together. Cellular shape was pyramidal or elongated; the cytoplasm was electron-lucent and contained highly characteristic secretory granules. Six different types of endocrine cells were identified on the basis of the ultrastructural aspect and cytochemical characteristics (silver-reactivity) of their secretory granules: EC, L, PP, A, D1 and D cells. EC and L cells were the most abundant in all localisations. They were especially numerous in the rectum. A subpopulation of EC cells was negative to Masson-Singh's reaction showing that they lack 5-HT. This observation enabled us to refer this latter cellular type to the "pre-EC" cells, described by Vialli as an earlier evolutive step of the EC cells population. Their presence in the calf gut might be linked to its possible "immaturity", due either to the age or to the alimentary diet.

Immunohistochemical localization of different forms of somatostatin in the gastrointestinal tract of the calf

The presence of two peptides that belong to the somatostatin family has been investigated in the calf gut. Somatostatin-14-like and Somatostatin-28-like peptides have been localized by a light microscopic immunohistochemical method. The method employed antibodies linked to colloidal gold particles that were revealed by a silver-enhancement step. Somatostatin-14-like peptide was only present in mucosal endocrine cells, which were detectable along the entire gut with the exceptions of the abomasal gastric proper glands and caecum. The cells were most abundant in cardiac and pyloric glands. Langerhans' islets also contained this type of endocrine cell. Somatostatin-28-like-immunoreactive endocrine cells were more abundant than the former cell type. They were present in the gastric proper glands and caecum where Somatostatin-14-like-immunoreactive cells were absent. They were as numerous as the former type of cell in the endocrine pancreas. The Somatostatin-28-like peptide was also detectable in the intramural nervous components of the abomasum and the intestine, in both perikarya and terminals. Our results show a possible heterogeneity of an endocrine cell type, which synthesizes and secretes somatostatin peptides. Our results also support the hypothesis that somatostatin-14 and somatostatin-28 peptides may have distinct functional roles, particularly in different species.

Ultrastructure of the epithelium that lines the ductuli efferentes in domestic equidae, with particular reference to spermatophagy

The epithelium that lines the ductuli efferentes in the horse, donkey and mule has been examined by electron microscopy. The epithelium consists of columnar ciliated and non-ciliated cells. Lymphocytes and macrophages are also present, together with cells that are rich in lipofuscin. These 'lipofuscin-rich' cells are a peculiar feature of the excurrent ducts of Equidae and are characterized by a large number of highly heterogeneous residual bodies. The general morphology of the epithelium and, in particular, of the non-ciliated cells implies that the epithelium is involved in the absorption and digestion of luminal fluids. This morphology includes a complex endocytotic apparatus as well as a large and heterogeneous population of lysosomal structures within the cytoplasmic domain. Of particular interest is the unusual presence of peroxisomes. In the Equidae, the cells that compose the epithelial layer appear to act directly on the germinal cells, via the process of spermatophagy. The presence of peroxisomes in non-ciliated cells has been implicated in endocytotic and spermatophagic activities, and peroxisomes may be involved in the oxidation and elimination of toxic peroxides.

Ultrastructure of epididymal epithelium in Equus caballus

The ultrastructure of the epithelial lining of the ductuli efferents and the ductus epididymis in the horse (Equus caballus) is described. Several types of cells can be distinguished: ciliated and non-ciliated cells make up the epithelium of the ductuli efferents, whereas principal, apical and basal cells are found in the ductus epididymis. The observations are compared with those made in other species, in particular in the donkey (Equus asinus), and the possible functional roles of the different cell types are discussed.

Factor VIII:c concentrate virus inactivated: progress in purification by using classic chromatographic methods

This study was carried out with the aim of developing a production process for the manufacture of a highly purified factor VIII concentrate which is virus inactivated by pasteurization in liquid phase. Beside standard plasma protein separation techniques, the procedure uses a chromatographic step on anion exchanger, whose selectivity is increased by using high, but not destabilizing salt concentrations. The final product before stabilization has a specific activity higher than 300 IU/mg of protein, namely the highest specific activity reported for human factor VIII concentrates purified without the use of immunoadsorbents.