DigitalUM :: Browsing by Subject "Histology"

Browsing by Subject "Histology"

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Open Access
A multihormonal tumor of the pancreas producing neurotensin associated with the WDHA syndrome. Histology, histochemistry and origin
(Murcia : F. Hernández, 1986) Bani-Sacchi, Tatiana; Bartolini, Giancarlo; Biliotti, Giancarlo
A pancreatic tumor associated with severe LVDHA syndrome has been studied histologically and immunohistochemically. Light microscopy revealed that the growth pattern of' the tunlor varied greatly from zone to zone but with prevailing solid arrangement of the tumoral cells. The majority of the endocrine cells showed numerous eosinophilic, PTAH-positive, and argyrophilic secretory granules, that were ultrastructurally similar to those of normal and tumoral neurotensin-containing cells. A minority of the endocrine cells had secretory granules ultrastructurally different from the aforementioned ones, but these were not diagnostic on purely morphological grounds. Inside the tumor, immunol~istochemistryd emonstrated a majority of neurotensin-immunoreactive cells, sparse and small clusters of VIP-immunoreactive cells and few, dispersed pancreatic polypeptide-immunoreactive cells. Some structural and ultrastructural aspects of the tumoral stroma have also been reported. Ducts and solid masses of duct-like cells were also found, and small clusters and singly dispersed duct-like cells were seen invading the endocrine tissue and undergoing mitoses. Such features suggest that the tumor originated from precursors located in the medium-sized and small pancreatic ducts. Because of the multihormonal nature of the tumor, the role of neurotensin and VIP in producing the patient's symptoms is discussed and a synergistic action of the two hormones is suggested in causing the particularly severe WDHA syndrome.
Open Access
Anterior cruciate ligament innervation in primary knee osteoarthritis
(Universidad de Murcia, Departamento de Biologia Celular e Histiologia, 2022) Guerra González, Adrián; Casa, Carmen da; Crespo, Íñigo; Pescador, David; Benito Garzón, Lorena; Blanco, Juan F
Objective. To relate the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) innervation and histologic degeneration status to the knee osteoarthritis radiologic and functional status. Design. Prospective observational study including 30 consecutive patients affected by primary knee osteoarthritis undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA). All patients suffering secondary knee osteoarthritis, an antecedent of an infectious process, malignant process, autoimmune disorder, or previous knee surgery were excluded. We recorded biodemographic, clinical, and radiologic variables of all participants previous to the TKA procedure. ACL tissue was harvested during TKA standard procedure and the obtained sample was fixed in 4% formalin and paraffinembedded. ACL cross-sections were stained by haematoxylin-eosin and Gallego staining for elastic and collagen fibers, and Sevier-Munger silver staining for nervous tissue. Results. ACL samples histologic degeneration classification reported 15.4% normal, 23.1% slight, 26.9% mild, 11.5% moderate and 23.1% marked. We noted 46.2% large nervous fascicles, 15.4% medium fascicles, 3.8% small fascicles, and no nerve fibers were found in 34.6% ACL samples. No significant correlation was found between the histologic degeneration and the nervous fiber quantification (p>0.05, in all cases). We noted a significant histologic degeneration inverse correlation with the VAS scale (p=0.016), and nervous fiber quantification correlation with Lequesne maximum distance walked punctuation (p=0.043). We also noted greater nervous fiber quantification with minor radiological knee osteoarthritis (Kellgren-Lawrence grade II). Conclusions. ACL degeneration and innervation deficit may play a role in primary knee osteoarthritis onset, but the lack of a defining relationship among the different parameters assessed justifies further research in greater populations.
Open Access
Comparative study of the eyelids and orbital glands morphology in the okapi (Okapia johnstoni, Giraffidae), Père David's deer (Elaphurus davidianus, Cervidae) and the Philippine mouse-deer (Tragulus nigricans, Tragulidae).
(Universidad de Murcia, Departamento de Biologia Celular e Histiologia, 2020) Nawrot, Joanna Elżbieta Klećkowska; Harłajczuk, Karolina Goździewska; Barszcz, Karolina
The accessory organs of the eye represent part of the protective system of the eyeball. In the present study, an examination of the accessory organs of the eye of three species of captive ruminants was performed using light microscopy. In the okapi, the superficial gland of the third eyelid and lacrimal gland were complex branched multilobar tubular glands formed by mucous units with tubular secretory portions and no plasma cells. The deep gland of the third eyelid was absent in the okapi and present in both the Père David’s deer and the Philippine mouse-deer. In the Philippine mouse-deer, the deep gland had a very thick connective capsule and thick interlobar septae. It contained fewer lobes forming the gland parenchyma compared to Père David’s deer and other ruminants. Organized lymphoid follicles were present within the upper and lower eyelids only in the okapi and Père David’s deer, while diffuse lymphocytes were observed in the Philippine mouse-deer. The orbital glands in the Père David’s deer had a multilobar tubuloacinar structure with numerous plasma cells and a mucoserous character. In contrast to the Philippine mouse-deer, these glands had a serous character. The presence of several macroscopic and microscopic structural differences of the examined accessory organs of the eye in the three captive ruminant species may be understood within an ecological context and may be associated with different habitat-specific environmental conditions.
Open Access
Complex and elementary histological scoring systems for articular cartilage repair
(F. Hernández y Juan F. Madrid. Universidad de Murcia: Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología, 2015) Orth, Patrick; Madry, Henning
The repair of articular cartilage defects is increasingly moving into the focus of experimental and clinical investigations. Histological analysis is the gold standard for a valid and objective evaluation of cartilaginous repair tissue and predominantly relies on the use of established scoring systems. In the past three decades, numerous elementary and complex scoring systems have been described and modified, including those of O’Driscoll, Pineda, Wakitani, Sellers and Fortier for entire defects as well as those according to the International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS-I/II) for osteochondral tissue biopsies. Yet, this coexistence of different grading scales inconsistently addressing diverse parameters may impede comparability between reported study outcomes. Furthermore, validation of these histological scoring systems has only seldom been performed to date. The aim of this review is (1) to give a comprehensive overview and to compare the most important established histological scoring systems for articular cartilage repair, (2) to describe their specific advantages and pitfalls, and (3) to provide valid recommendations for their use in translational and clinical studies of articular cartilage repair.
Open Access
Correlative study of squash smear cytology with histopathology in a rare case of anaplastic giant cell ependymoma of the pineal
(2014) Toscano, Marzia; Butorano, Aimée Gloria Munezero; Cerase, Alfonso; Miracco, Clelia
Anaplastic giant cell ependymoma (AGCE) is a very rare neoplasm. Its cytological features, helpful for the intraoperative diagnosis, have been reported only once. AGCE is characterized by giant cells with intranuclear inclusions, besides other findings, observable in ependymal neoplasms, such as intracytoplasmic vacuoles, epithelial and glial features of the tumor cells and ependymal pseudorosettes. These findings can be detected also in intraoperative squash smear. Herein we describe a pineal AGCE, highlighting the cytological and histological correlations and underlining some useful diagnostic clues of this unusual entity.
Open Access
Dorsal skin responses to subchronic ultraviolet B (UVB)-irradiation in Wistar-derived hypotrichotic WBN/ILA-Ht rats
(Murcia : F. Hernández, 2002) Malcotti, V.; Yasoshima, A.; Imaoka, K.; Nakayama, Hiroyuki; Doi, K.
Dorsal skin responses to a subchronic UVBirradiation (10kJ/m2/rat /day), were examined in Wistarderived hypotrichotic WBN/ILA-Ht rats for up to 3 months. Hyperplasia of epidermal cells and hair follicle epithelial cells as well as parakeratosis developed at 1 month and progressed thereafter, resulting in a prominent epidermis thickening and formation of epidermal ingrowths projecting into the dermis. At the same time, the percentage of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)-positive epidermal cells significantly increased after 1 month. In some portions of the hyperplastic epidermis, especially of the epidermal ingrowths, keratinocytes were somewhat pleomorphic and migrated into the dermis. In the upper dermis, edema with capillary congestion, mast cell infiltration and fibroblast proliferation developed at 1 month, and the intensity of edema and the number of dermal mast cells was most prominent at 3 months. Edema spread to the epidermis, resulting in intercellular edema and subsequent dissociation of epidermal cells. Degeneration of collagen fibers was also detected in the upper dermis, especially beneath the epidermis. In addition, although not significant because of a large individual difference, the serum IgE concentration, showed a tendency to increase after 2 months. The present study clarified the characteristics of the dorsal skin responses to a subchronic UVB-irradiation in rats.
Open Access
Early effects of high-fat diet, extra-virgin olive oil and vitamin D in a sedentary rat model of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
(Universidad de Murcia. Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología, 2018) Trovato, Francesca Maria; Castrogiovanni, Paola; Szychlinska, Marta Anna; Purrello, Francesco; Musumeci, Giuseppe
Background and Aim. Western high-fat diet is related to metabolic syndrome and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Decreased levels of Vitamin D (VitD) and IGF-1 and their mutual relationship were also reported. We aimed to evaluate whether different dietary profiles, containing or not VitD, may exert different effects on liver tissue. Methods. Twenty-eight male rats were fed for 10 weeks by different dietary regimens: R, regular diet; RDS and R-DR, regular diet with respectively VitD supplementation (DS) and restriction (DR); HFB-DS and HFB-DR (41% energy from fat), high fat (butter) diet; HFEVO-DS and HFEVO-DR (41% energy from fat), high fat (Extra-virgin olive oil-EVO) diet. Severity of NAFLD was assessed by NAFLD Activity Score. Collagen type I, IL-1beta, VitD-receptor, DKK-1 and IGF1 expressions were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Results. All samples showed a NAS between 0 and 2 considered not diagnostic of steatohepatitis. Collagen I, although weakly expressed, was statistically greater in HFB-DS and HFB-DR groups. IL-1 was mostly expressed in rats fed with HFBs and HFEVOs and RDR, and almost absent in R and R-DS diets. IGF-1 and DKK-1 were reduced in HFBs and HFEVOs diets and in particular in DR groups. Conclusions. A short-term high-fat diet could damage liver tissue in terms of inflammation and collagen I deposition, setting the basis for the subsequent steatohepatitis, still not identifiable anatomopathologically. Vitamin D restriction increases inflammation and reduces the expression of IGF-1 in the liver, worsening the fat-induced changing. EVOO seems be protective against the collagen I production.
Open Access
Effects of sediment sorbed linear alkylbenzene sulphonate on juveniles of the Senegal sole, Solea senegalensis, Toxicity and histological indicators
(Murcia : F. Hernández, 2008) Hampel, M.; Ortiz-Delgado, J.B.; Sarasquete, C.; Blasco, J.
Many synthetic organic substances, including surfactants, tend to be sorbed on suspended solids and to accumulate finally on bottom sediments, where benthic communities may be exposed to them. Concentrations of Linear Alkylbenzene Sulphonates (LAS) have been detected in estuarine and coastal sediments, presenting wide concentration ranges depending on the presence of treatment facilities, hydrodynamic conditions, organic matter content, etc. Senegal sole, Solea senegalensis, larvae (40 days posthatching; dph) were exposed to increasing concentrations of LAS spiked sediments, comprised between 0.37 and 880.78 mg LAS·kg-1 during 30 days. The obtained results showed that survival of exposed larvae was not significantly affected at environmentally relevant concentrations, the LC50 value being obtained after 30 days 876.46 mg·kg-1. However, the histological and histopathological analyses carried out in target organs revealed, that first alterations from the normal pattern were observed at concentrations of 222.66 mg·kg-1, presenting effects such as blood extravasation and hyperplasy of the lamellar epithelium in gills, increase of inter-myotomal spaces of the skeletal musculature and edematous separation of the skin from epidermis. At the highest exposure concentrations (755.27 and 880.78 mg LAS·kg-1), shrinkage of hepatocytes, nuclear pycnosis and blood stagnation are observed in the liver, degeneration of pancreatic cells, reduction of hemocytopoietic tissue in the kidney and vacuolisation of intestinal enterocytes was observed at histological level, as well as severe separation of the epidermis from the underlying tissues. Simultaneously, a significant increase of the wet weight with exposure concentration was observed in the test organisms.
Open Access
Endoscopic study of the oral and pharyngeal cavities in the Common dolphin, Striped dolphin, Risso’s dolphin, Harbour porpoise and Pilot whale: reinforced with other diagnostic and anatomic techniques
(MDPI, 2021-05-22) García de los Ríos y Loshuertos, Álvaro; Soler Laguía, Marta; Arencibia Espinosa, Alberto; Martínez Gomariz, Francisco; Sánchez Collado, Cayetano; López Fernández, Alfredo; Gil Cano, Francisco; Seva Alcaraz, Juan; Ramírez Zarzosa, Gregorio; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparadas
In this work, the fetal and newborn anatomical structures of the dolphin oropharyngeal cavities were studied. The main technique used was endoscopy, as these cavities are narrow tubular spaces and the oral cavity is difficult to photograph without moving the specimen. The endoscope was used to study the mucosal features of the oral and pharyngeal cavities. Two pharyngeal diverticula of the auditory tubes were discovered on either side of the choanae and larynx. These spaces begin close to the musculotubaric channel of the middle ear, are linked to the pterygopalatine recesses (pterygoid sinus) and they extend to the maxillopalatine fossa. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), osteological analysis, sectional anatomy, dissections, and histology were also used to better understand the function of the pharyngeal diverticula of the auditory tubes. These data were then compared with the horse’s pharyngeal diverticula of the auditory tubes. The histology revealed that a vascular plexus inside these diverticula could help to expel the air from this space to the nasopharynx. In the oral cavity, teeth remain inside the alveolus and covered by gums. The marginal papillae of the tongue differ in extension depending on the fetal specimen studied. The histology reveals that the incisive papilla is vestigial and contain abundant innervation. No ducts were observed inside lateral sublingual folds in the oral cavity proper and caruncles were not seen in the prefrenular space.
Open Access
Genotype-histotype-phenotype correlations in hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia
(Universidad de Murcia, Departamento de Biologia Celular e Histiologia, 2024) Larsen, Annette Rønholt; Brusgaard, Klaus; Christesen, Henrik Thybo; Detlefsen, Sönke
Hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia (HH) of pancreatic origin includes congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI), insulinoma, insulinomatosis, and adult-onset non-insulinoma persistent hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia syndrome (NI-PHHS). In this review, we describe the genotype-histotype-phenotype correlations in HH and their therapeutic implications. CHI can occur from birth or later on in life. Histologically, diffuse CHI shows diffuse beta cell hypertrophy with a few giant nuclei per islet of Langerhans, most frequently caused by loss-of-function mutations in ABCC8 or KCNJ11. Focal CHI is histologically characterized by focal adenomatous hyperplasia consisting of confluent hyperplastic islets, caused by a paternal ABCC8/KCNJ11 mutation combined with paternal uniparental disomy of 11p15. CHI in Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome is caused by mosaic changes in the imprinting region 11p15.4-11p15.5, leading to segmental or diffuse overgrowth of endocrine tissue in the pancreas. Morphological mosaicism of pancreatic islets is characterized by occurence of hyperplastic (type 1) islets in one or a few lobules and small, shrunken (type 2) islets. Other rare genetic causes of CHI show less characteristic or unspecific histology. HH with a predominant adult onset includes insulinomas, which are pancreatic insulin-producing endocrine neoplasms, in some cases with metastatic potential. Insulinomas occur sporadically or as part of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 due to MEN1 mutations. MAFA mutations lead histologically to insulinomatosis with insulin-producing neuroendocrine microadenomas or neuroendocrine neoplasms. NI-PHHS is mainly seen in adults and shows slight histological changes in adults and may show slight histological changes, defined by major and minor criteria. The genetic cause is unknown in most cases. The diagnosis of HH, as defined by genetic, histological, and phenotypic features, has important implications for patient management and outcome.
Open Access
Histological and immunohistochemical effects of L-arginine and silymarin on TNBS-induced inflammatory bowel disease in rats
(Universidad de Murcia. Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología, 2016) Al-Drees, Abdul Majeed; Khalil, Mahmoud Salah
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic disease that affects quality of life. Various mediators are involved in IBD pathogenesis including inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), cytochrome c, heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. L-Arginine (L-Arg) can be depleted in IBD, and silymarin inhibits neutrophil infiltration, NF-κB, and TNF-α, which have crucial roles in inducing IBD. This study aimed to investigate whether silymarin and L-Arg supplementation decreases IBD progression in trinitrobenzinesulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis. Fifty adult male albino rats were randomized into five groups (10 animals per group): Group I rats orally received 10 mg silymarin/100 g body weight once daily; Group II rats orally received 2 mg L-Arg/100 g body weight once daily; Group III rats rectally received 0.85 mL TNBS in 50% ethanol to induce colitis; Group IV rats were treated similar to group III and, on recovery from anesthesia, received silymarin as described for group I; and Group V rats were treated similar to group III and, on recovery from anesthesia, received L-Arg as described for group II. On day 7, the rats were anesthetized, and blood samples were collected to determine the serum concentrations of TNF-α. Laparotomy and total colectomy were performed for macroscopic, histological, and immunohistochemical investigations. The results showed that silymarin and L-Arg macroscopically and microscopically ameliorated TNBS-induced colitis; significantly decreased the serum levels of TNFα; inhibited the colonic expression of iNOS, NF-κB, and cytochrome c; and increased expression of HSP70. Our results suggest that these complementary medicines could be used to supplement current treatments for IBD.
Open Access
Histological and immunohistochemical soft-tissue response to cylindrical and concave abutments: multicenter randomized clinical trial
(Wiley, 2024-08-26) Camacho Alonso, Fabio; Bernabeu Mira, Juan Carlos; Sánchez, Joaquín; Buendía, Antonio Julián; Mercado Díaz, Ana María; Pérez Sayans, Mario; Pérez Jardón, Alba; Somoza Martín, José Manuel; Montero, Javier; Gómez Polo, Cristina; Quispe López, Norberto; Peñarrocha Oltra, David; Dermatología, Estomatología, Radiología y Medicina Física
Background:This study aimed to analyze the influence of concave andcylindrical abutments on peri-implant soft tissue. Dimensions, collagen fiberorientation, and immunohistochemical data were assessed.Methods:A multicenter, split-mouth, double-blind randomized clinical trialwas conducted. Two groups were analyzed: cylindrical abutments and concaveabutments. After a 12-week healing period, peri-implant soft tissue samples werecollected, processed, and evaluated for dimensions, collagen fiber orientation,and immunohistochemical data. Inflammatory infiltration and vascularizationwere assessed, and the abutment surfaces were analyzed using scanning elec-tron microscopy. The statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS version20.0 statistical package.Results:A total of 74 samples in 37 patients were evaluated. Histologicalevaluation of peri-implant soft tissue dimensions revealed significant differ-encesbetweenconcaveandcylindricalabutments.Concaveabutmentsexhibitedgreater total height (concave: 3.57±0.28 – cylindrical: 2.95±0.27) and bar-rier epithelium extension (concave: 2.46±0.17 – cylindrical: 1.89±0.21)(p<0.05),whilethesupracrestalconnectivetissueextension(concave:1.11±0.17– cylindrical: 1.03±0.16) was slightly greater (p>0.05). Collagen fiber ori-entation favored concave abutments (23.76±5.86), with significantly moretransverse/perpendicular fibers than for cylindrical abutments (15.68±4.57).The immunohistochemical analysis evidenced greater inflammatory and vascu-lar intensity in the lower portion for both abutments, though concave abutmentsshowed lower overall intensity (concave: 1.05±0.78 – cylindrical: 1.97±0.68) (p<0.05). The abutment surface analysis demonstrated a higher percentage oftissue remnants on concave abutments (42.47±1.32; 45.12±3.03) (p<0.05).Conclusions:Within the limitations of this study, concave abutments pre-sented significantly greater peri-implant tissue height, linked to an extendedbarrier epithelium, versus cylindrical abutments in thick tissue phenotype.This enhanced soft tissue sealing, favoring a greater percentage of transverselyoriented collagen fibers. The concave design reduced chronic inflammatoryexudation with T and B cells, thus minimizing the risk of chronic inflammation.
Open Access
Histological and stereological insights into renal and adrenal changes in pregnant rats exposed to wood smoke-derived PM2.5
(Universidad de Murcia, Departamento de Biologia Celular e Histiologia, 2025) Salinas, P.; Villarroel, F.; González Torres, C.; Lazcano, T.; Silva, J.; Maulen, A.; Rojas, E.
Air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5), is a global health issue affecting millions. In southern Chile, firewood used for heating exacerbates pollution, especially in winter. This study examines the impact of wood smoke-derived PM2.5 on kidney and adrenal gland morphology in pregnant rats. It evaluates chronic PM2.5 exposure effects during pregestational and gestational periods in Sprague-Dawley rats. Pregnant rats were exposed to PM2.5 in Temuco, a city with high wood smoke pollution. Filtered and unfiltered air chambers simulated different exposure conditions. Histological and stereological analyses were conducted on rat kidneys and adrenal glands using systematic sampling and STEPanizer software. Findings showed significant changes in renal and adrenal morphology due to PM2.5 exposure. In the kidney, variations were observed in glomerular compaction, proximal convoluted tubules, and medullary rays. In the adrenal gland, the zona fasciculata showed decreased acidophilia and lipid content, reduced cytoplasmic homogeneity, and the appearance of empty spaces. These effects were more pronounced in rats exposed to unfiltered air during both pregestational and gestational periods. Wood smoke-derived PM2.5 exposure significantly impacts kidney and adrenal morphology in pregnant rats, emphasizing the need for strategies to reduce environmental pollutant exposure during critical developmental periods to protect maternal-fetal health.
Open Access
Histological parameters of the adrenal cortex after testosterone application in a rat model of the andropause
(Universidad de Murcia. Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología, 2016) Ajdžanović, Vladimir Z.; Jarić, Ivana M.; Živanović, Jasmina B.; Filipović, Branko R.; Šošić Jurjević, Branka T.; Ristić, Nataša M.; Stanković, Sanja D.
Histological analysis of the adrenal cortex, after testosterone application in a rat model of the andropause, was the main subject of the present study. Middle-aged Wistar rats were divided into shamoperated (SO; n=8), orchidectomized (Orx; n=8) and testosterone treated orchidectomized (Orx+T; n=8) groups. Testosterone propionate (5 mg/kg b.m. /day) was administered for three weeks, while SO and Orx groups received the vehicle alone. Histological objectives were achieved using stereology, histochemistry and steroid receptor immunostaining. The concentrations of testosterone, aldosterone, corticosterone and DHEA were determined by immunoassays. Expectedly, increased (p<0.05) serum concentration of testosterone was observed in Orx+T group. The volume of ZG cells and nuclei increased in Orx+T animals by 50% and 25% (p<0.05) respectively, but the serum concentrations of aldosterone decreased (p<0.05) by 60%, all compared to the same parameters in Orx group. The immunostaining for androgen receptors (ARs) suggested their cytoplasmic localization in ZG cells of Orx+T rats. Volume of the ZF cell nuclei in Orx+T group decreased (p<0.05) by 17%, which was followed by the significant (p<0.05) fall in corticosterone production and secretion, all in comparison with Orx animals. Also, nuclear immunolocalization of ARs of high optical density was observed through the ZF of Orx+T group. In Orx+T rats volume of ZR cells and nuclei, and circulating DHEA concentration increased (p<0.05) by 68%, 22% and about 6.6 times respectively, compared to Orx animals. Besides the extra-receptor actions in adrenal cortex, testosterone supposedly affects some steroidogenesisrelated gene expression, as indicated by centripetal rise in the number of nuclear ARs.
Open Access
Histology and ultrastructure of the pineal organ in the domestic goose
(Murcia : F. Hernández, 2006) Prusik, M.; Lewczuk, B.; Nowicki, M.; Przybylska-Gornowicz, B.
The pineal organs of 14-week-old domestic geese were investigated with light and electron microscopy. The pineals consisted of a wide distal part and a narrow middle-proximal one. The glands were attached to the intercommissural region via the choroid plexus. The pineal parenchyma was formed by round or elongated follicles. The follicular wall was composed predominantly by cells immunoreactive with antibodies against hydroxyindolo-O-methyltransferase (HIOMT) or glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP). They formed two or more layers. HIOMT-positive elements were represented by elongated cells bordering the follicular lumen and oval cells located in the external layer of the follicular wall. These cells were identified in ultrastructural studies as rudimentary-receptor pinealocytes and secretory pinealocytes, respectively. Among rudimentary-receptor pinealocytes two types of cells, designed as A and B, were distinguished due to structural differences. Type A cells extended through the whole follicular wall and showed regular stratified distribution of organelles in well-recognizable zones with rough endoplasmic reticulum, the Golgi apparatus and mitochondria. Type B cells, like type A pinealocytes, contacted the pineal lumen and showed polarity of their internal structure. However, they were markedly shorter than the cells of type A and lacked stratified distribution of organelles. Secretory pinealocytes contained irregularly dispersed organelles. A prominent feature of all types of goose pinealocytes was the presence of numerous dense core vesicles. The population of GFAP-positive cells consisted of ependymal-like supporting cells and astrocyte-like cells.
Open Access
Histopathological features of endometritis eosinophilica in mares
(Universidad de Murcia. Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología, 2017) Grimm, Anna Lena; Schoon, Heinz Adolf; Schöniger, Sandra
Equine endometritis eosinophilica (EE) is rarely described and its diagnostic criteria are not defined. The aim of this study was to characterize histological features of EE. A data base (1995-2013) was searched for biopsies with increased eosinophils. This study included all biopsies with this diagnosis and representative biopsies without this record. The definition of equine EE was based on criteria for EE in women and the results of the determination of physiological numbers of eosinophils within the equine endometrium. EE was diagnosed in 55 mares. Biopsies of 10 mares contained eosinophils exceeding the physiological range, but no EE; the diagnosis of eosinophilic infiltrates (EI) was applied. Those of the remaining mares (n=126) displayed eosinophils within the physiological range (EWPR). An irregular glandular differentiation during the breeding season was detected in 25% of mares with EE, 33% of mares with EI and 24% of the mares with EWPR. Most mares with EE (93%), EI (90%) and EWPR (72%) showed endometrosis; it was high grade in 11% with EE and 7% with EWPR. Endometritis was diagnosed within 56% of mares with EE, 40% of mares with EI and 37% of those with EWPR. In mares with EE suppurative endometritis dominated (58%) and in those with EWPR nonsuppurative endometritis (58%). This study indicates EE as a primary fertility reducing disease. Results suggest an association between eosinophilic infiltration and the presence of neutrophils. Further, they provide the basis for future studies into the pathogenesis, prognosis and therapy of EE.
Open Access
Histopathology of human small intestinal and colonic ischemia-reperfusion: Experiences from human IR-models
(Universidad de Murcia. Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología, 2019) Leenarts, Claire A.J.I.; Grootjans, Joep; Hundscheid, Inca H.; Schellekens, Dirk H.S.M.; Lenaerts, Kaatje; Buurman, Wim A.; Dejong, Cornelis H.C.; Derikx, Joep P.M.
Intestinal ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury is a frequent, but potentially life-threatening condition. Although much has been learned about its pathophysiology from animal IR models, the translation to the human setting is imperative for better understanding of its etiology. This could provide us with new insight into development of early detection and potential new therapeutic strategies. Over the past decade, we have studied the pathophysiology of human small intestinal and colonic ischemia-reperfusion (IR) in newly developed human in vivo IR models. In this review, we give an overview of new insights on the sequelae of human intestinal IR, with particular attention for the differences in histopathology between small intestinal and colonic IR.
Open Access
Larval organogenesis of Pagrus pagrus L., 1758 with special attention to the digestive system development
(Murcia : F. Hernández, 2007) Darias, M.J.; Ortiz-Delgado, J.B.; Sarasquete, C.; Martínez Rodríguez, G.; Yúfera, M.
Organogenesis of the red porgy (Pagrus pagrus L., 1758) was examined from hatching until 63 days post-hatching (dph) using histological and histochemical techniques. At hatching, the heart appeared as a tubular structure which progressively developed into four differentiated regions at 2 dph: bulbus arteriosus, atrium, ventricle and sinus venosus. First ventricle and atrium trabeculae were appreciated at 6 and 26 dph, respectively. Primordial gill arches were evident at 2 dph. Primordial filaments and first lamellae were observed at 6 and 15 dph, respectively. At mouth opening (3dph), larvae exhausted their yolk-sac reserves. The pancreatic zymogen granules appeared at 6 dph. Glycogen granules, proteins and neutral lipids (vacuoles in paraffin sections) were detected in the cytoplasm of the hepatocytes from 4-6 dph. Hepatic sinusoids could be observed from 9 dph. Pharyngeal and buccal teeth were observed at 9 and 15 dph, respectively. Oesophageal goblet cells appeared around 6 dph, containing neutral and acid mucosubstances. An incipient stomach could be distinguished at 2 dph. The first signs of gastric gland development were detected at 26 dph, increasing in number and size by 35-40 dph. Gastric glands were concentrated in the cardiac stomach region and presented a high content of protein rich in tyrosine, arginine and tryptophan. The intestinal mucous cells appeared at 15 dph and contained neutral and acid glycoconjugates, the carboxylated mucins being more abundant than the sulphated ones. Acidophilic supranuclear inclusions in the intestinal cells of the posterior intestine, related to pynocitosis of proteins, were observed at 4-6 dph.
Open Access
Liver morphology and histological alterations related to reproductive phases of female silver croaker Plagioscion squamosissimus (Acanthuriformes, Sciaenidae)
(Universidad de Murcia, Departamento de Histología e Histopatología, 2025) Horas Do Nascimento Yane Caroline; Pereira dos Santos Silva Amanda; Kotz Kliemann Bruna Caroline; Paiva Ramos Igor; Franceschini Lidiane; Delariva Rosilene Luciana; De Oliveira Manoel Letícia; Belancieri Souza Cristieli Fernanda; Ninhaus Silveira Alexandre; Veríssimo-Silveira Rosicleire; Biología Celular e Histología
This study describes the morphology of the liver tissue, histological alterations, and their relationships with the reproductive phases of the female silver croaker Plagioscion squamosissimus. We tested the hypothesis that histological alterations in liver tissue can occur at the expense of the reproductive phase of the female and that climatic factors, such as rainfall, interfere with the reproductive phases and, consequently, promote histological alterations. Histological analysis of the liver showed liver tissue with hepatocytes, bile ducts, blood vessels, sinusoids, intrahepatic pancreas, and phagocytic cells. The histological alterations observed were cytoplasmic vacuolization and degeneration, aggregates of melanomacrophages, hyperemia, and vascular congestion, with cytoplasmic vacuolization, cytoplasmic degeneration, and vascular congestion being the most frequent. We observed that the frequency of cytoplasmic vacuolization increased throughout gonadal development with a decrease in the spawning-capable phase, and that cytoplasmic degeneration and vascular congestion were more frequent in the suitable spawning phase. In addition, relationships between histological alterations, hepatosomatic index, gonadosomatic index, reproductive phases, and rainfall were also observed, showing that alterations were more frequent in periods with higher rainfall and reproductive phases when females were ready to reproduce. In short, histological alterations may be subject to the reproductive phases of females, which are influenced by rainfall, as observed in many studies. Thus, this study presents the morphology of the liver tissue of P. squamosissimus, and the results shed light on the importance of considering the reproductive phases in studies evaluating histological alterations in the liver
Open Access
Lymph node or lymphoid aggregate? Impact on cancer resection quality, clinical prognosis, and tumor staging
(Universidad de Murcia, Departamento de Biologia Celular e Histiologia, 2025) Gocht, Andreas; Watermann, Christian; Melzer, Madelaine; Schumacher, Udo
The clinical outcome of most cancer patients depends on the stage of the primary tumor, the lymph node status, and if distant metastases are present. According to the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC), the Tumor Node Metastasis (TNM) classifi-cation of malignant tumors requires the examination of a minimum number of regional lymph nodes for each type of cancer to fulfill the criteria of high-quality surgical oncology. Due to the daily challenge of collecting an appropriate number of lymph nodes and time constraints when processing and assessing tissue samples, pathologists may be tempted to identify every histological lymphoid structure mimicking a lymph node as a “true” lymph node. Faced with this issue, we propose to resolve it by specifying histological characteristics to differentiate lymphoid aggregates from “true” lymph nodes. To find a minimum consensus, we suggest defining as lymph nodes only those lymphoid structures composed of lymphoid cells encapsulated by a complete or incomplete fibrous capsule.