Expression of stromal elements of prostatic adenocarcinoma in different gleason scores

Abstract Purpose: To quantify and compare the expression of stromal elements in prostate adenocarcinoma of different Gleason scores with non-tumor area (control). Methods: We obtained 132 specimens from samples of prostate peripheral and transition zone. We analyzed the following elements of the extracellular matrix: collagen fibers, elastic system, smooth muscle fibers and blood vessels. The tumor area and non-tumor area (control) of the TMA (tissue microarray) were photographed and analyzed using the ImageJ software. Results: The comparison between the tumor area and the non-tumor area showed significant differences between stromal prostate elements. There was an increase of collagen fibers in the tumor area, mainly in Gleason 7. Elastic system fibers showed similar result, also from the Gleason 7. Blood vessels showed a significant increase occurred in all analyzed groups. The muscle fibers exhibited a different behavior, with a decrease in relation to the tumor area. Conclusions: There is a significant difference between the extracellular matrix in prostate cancer compared to the non-tumor area (control) especially in Gleason 7. Important modifications of the prostatic stromal elements strongly correlate with different Gleason scores and can contribute to predict the pathological staging of prostate cancer.

Effects of tadalafil to prevent injury on corpus cavernosum after vascular or nervous peri-prostatic bundle injury. Experimental model in rats

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the effects of tadalafil (TD) in preventing histological alterations of the corpus cavernosum caused by isolated lesions of cavernous nerve (ILCN) and artery (ILCA) in rats. Methods: Fifty male Wistar rats were randomly assigned in five groups: G1: control; G2: bilateral ILCN; G3: bilateral ILCA; G4: ILCN+TD; G5: ILCA+TD. The cavernous bodies were submitted to histomorphometry, immunohistochemistry and biochemical analysis. Results: Nerve density was significantly higher in G2 and G4 compared to control (22.62±2.84 and 19.53±3.47 vs. 15.72±1.82; respectively, p<0.05). Smooth muscle density was significantly lower in G2 and G3 in comparison to G1 (12.87±1.90 and 18.93±1.51 vs. 21.78±1.81, respectively; p<0.05). A significant decrease in the sinusoidal lumen area was observed in G2 compared to controls (5.01±1.62 vs. 9.88±3.66, respectively; p<0.05) and the blood vessel density was increased in G2 and G3 (29.32±4.13 e 20.80±2.47 vs. 10.13±2.71, p<0.05). Collagen density was higher in G3 compared to G1 (93.76±15.81 vs. 64.59±19.25; p<0.05). Conclusions: Histomorphometric alterations caused by ILCN were more intense than those produced by vascular injury, but the collagen analyses showed more fibrosis in animals with ILCA. TD was effective in preventing the majority of the alterations induced by the periprostatic bundle injury.

Morphological analysis of the elastic and collagen fibers in the ram penis / Análise morfológica de fibras elásticas e colágenas no pênis de ovinos

The penis represents the organ of the male's copulation. It is essential to know the reproductive biology and the morphology of the reproductive organs to increase animal production. In order to contribute to this knowledge and provides information on the ram reproductive morphology, the purpose of this work was to describe the distribution, based on light microscopy, of the collagen and elastic fibers in the ram penis. For that, were collected transverse fragments of the penis (root, sigmoid flexure, body and glans) of seven rams. The specimens were fixed in paraformaldehyde for 24h and destined for the histological routine. The extracellular matrix of the ram penis was composed of collagen and elastic fibers. The penis was enveloped by the tunica albuginea, consisting essentially of collagen fibers, which were arranged in two layers: an outer longitudinal and an inner circular. This tunic emitted septa that penetrated the corpus cavernosum. The elastic fibers appeared transversely and longitudinally in the corpus cavernosum, corpus spongiosum, and next to the neurovascular bundle of the penis. This structure was not different to that reported for other domestic ruminants such as cattle and buffaloes.(AU)

O pênis representa o órgão da cópula do macho. É fundamental que se conheça a biologia reprodutiva e a morfologia dos órgãos reprodutores para o incremento da produção animal. Com o objetivo de contribuir para este conhecimento e fornecer informações sobre a morfologia reprodutiva de ovinos, o propósito deste trabalho foi descrever a distribuição, com base na microscopia de luz, das fibras colágenas e elásticas no pênis de ovinos. Para tanto, foram coletados fragmentos transversais do pênis (raiz, flexura sigmoide, corpo e glande) de sete ovinos. Os exemplares foram fixados em paraformaldeído por 24h e destinados à rotina histológica. A matriz extracelular do pênis de ovinos estava constituída por fibras colágenas e elásticas. O pênis estava envolvido pela túnica albugínea, formada essencialmente por fibras colágenas, que estavam arranjadas em duas camadas: longitudinal externa e circular interna. Esta túnica emitiu septos que penetraram no corpo cavernoso. As fibras elásticas apareceram de modo transversal e longitudinal nos corpos cavernoso e esponjoso e junto ao feixe vásculo-nervoso do pênis de ovinos. Esta estrutura mostrou-se similar ao encontrado em outros ruminantes domésticos como bovinos e bubalinos.(AU)

Structural study of endopelvic fascia in prostates of different weights. Anatomic study applied to radical prostatectomy

PURPOSE: To evaluate the structure of the endopelvic fascia in prostates of different weights. METHODS: We studied 10 patients with BPH (prostates>90g); 10 patients with prostate adenocarcinoma (PAC) (prostates<60g) and five young male cadavers (control group). During the surgery a small sample of endopelvic fascia was obtained. We analyzed elastic fibers, collagen and smooth muscle. The stereological analysis was done with the Image Pro and Image J programs. Means were statistically compared using the one-way ANOVA with the Bonferroni test and a p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The mean of the prostate weight was 122 g in BPH patients, 53.1g in PAC patients and 18.6g in control group. Quantitative analysis documented that there are no differences (p=0.19) in Vv of elastic fibers and in Vv of type III collagen (p=0.88) between the three groups. There was a significant difference (p=0<0.0001) in the quantification of SMC in patients with prostates >90g (mean=9.61%) when compared to patients with prostates <60g (mean=17.92%) and with the control group (mean=33.35%). CONCLUSION: There are differences in endopelvic fascia structure in prostates>90g, which can be an additional factor for pre-operatory evaluation of radical prostatectomy. .

Nova contribuição ao estudo do remodelamento ventricular e dos anéis valvares na cardiomiopatia dilatada: avaliação anátomo-histopatológica / New contribution to the study of ventricular remodeling and valve rings in dilated cardiomyopathy: anatomical and histological evaluation

Introdução: A cardiomiopatia dilatada idiopática (CMDId) é causadora de grande impacto, porém aspectos de sua fisiopatologia são desconhecidos. Objetivo: Avaliar aspectos anatomo-histológicos de corações com CMDId comparando-os a corações normais, com medidas perimetrais dos anéis atrioventriculares direito (AVD) e esquerdo (AVE) e dos ventrículos direito (VD) e esquerdo (VE) e a porcentagem de fibras colágenas e elásticas dos anéis. Métodos: Foram avaliados 13 corações de cadáveres portadores de CMDId e 13 corações normais, que foram dissecados mantendo-se os anéis atrioventriculares e a massa ventricular, com laminação em segmentos correspondentes a 20%, 50% e 80% da distância entre o sulco atrioventricular e o ápice ventricular. Os cortes foram submetidos à digitalização fotográfica, sendo comparadas as medidas. Os anéis foram dissecados, medidos e enviados ao laboratório de anatomia patológica, sendo realizadas colorações por meio de hematoxilina-eosina, picrossírius e resorcina fuccina oxidada. Resultados: Com relação aos ventrículos, no grupo CMDId ocorre dilatação nos segmentos apical, equatorial e basal. A medida do AVD foi maior no grupo CMDId, não havendo diferença no AVE entre os grupos. Com relação ao percentual de fibras colágenas, há diminuição no grupo CMDId em relação ao grupo normal. Com relação às fibras elásticas, não houve diferença entre os grupos. Conclusão: Ocorre alteração da geometria ventricular com dilatação no grupo CMDId. Na CMDId observou-se aumento no perímetro do AVD. Não se observou aumento do perímetro do AVE. Houve diminuição percentual na área total de colágeno tanto no AVD quanto no AVE em corações com CMDId. .

Introduction: Idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy causes great impact but many aspects of its pathophysiology remain unknown. Objective: To evaluate anatomical and histological aspects of hearts with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy and compare them to a control group, evaluating the behavior of the perimeters of the atrioventricular rings and ventricles and to compare the percentage of collagen and elastic fibers of the atrioventricular rings. Methods: Thirteen hearts with cardiomyopathy and 13 normal hearts were analysed. They were dissected keeping the ventricular mass and atrioventricular rings, with lamination of segments 20%, 50% and 80% of the distance between the atrioventricular groove and the ventricular apex. The sections were subjected to photo scanning, with measurement of perimeters. The atrioventricular rings were dissected and measured digitally to evaluate their perimeters, later being sent to the pathology laboratory, and stained by hematoxylin-eosin, picrosirius and oxidized resorcin fuccin. Results: Regarding to ventricles, dilation occurs in all segments in the pathological group, and the right atrioventricular ring measurement was higher in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy group, with no difference in the left side. With respect to collagen, both sides had lower percentage of fibers in the pathological group. With respect to the elastic fibers, there was no difference between the groups. Conclusion: There is a change in ventricular geometry in cardiomyopathy group. The left atrioventricular ring does not dilate, in spite of the fact that in both ventricles there is lowering of collagen. .

Age-related changes in the concentration of elastic fibers in different regions of the rabbit penis

PURPOSE: To investigate whether elastic fiber content in the corpus cavernosum (CC), corpus spongiosum (CS) and tunica albuginea (TA) of the rabbit penis undergoes modifications with age. METHODS: Rabbits were sacrificed, in groups of ten animals each, at 30, 120, 240, and 730 days of age. Histological sections were obtained from the penile middle shaft and were stained with Weigert's resorsin fuchsin. The content of elastic fibers was determined using stereological methods, and was expressed as volume fraction. RESULTS: At 730 days of age, elastic fiber content was increased by 54% (p<0.004), 78% (p<0.004), and 87% (p<0.004) in the TA, CC, and CS, respectively, compared with animals aged 30 days. After 30 days of age, the concentration gradually and significantly increased until 240 days of age. In 730-day old animals, the concentration, compared with the previous age group, was unchanged in the CC and decreased by 20% (p<0.004) in the TA. CONCLUSIONS: Elastic fiber contents in the rabbit penis correlate with properties of penile tissues. Although after one month of age there is a gradual increase in these concentrations, in two-year old animals this trend is interrupted, which suggests that this could be an early alteration due to senescence.

Influência do envelhecimento na qualidade da pele de mulheres brancas: o papel do colágeno, da densidade de material elástico e da vascularização / Influence of aging on the skin quality of white-skinned women: the role of collagen, elastic material density, and vascularization

INTRODUÇÃO: O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar a influência do envelhecimento na qualidade da pele de mulheres brancas, analisando o colágeno, as fibras elásticas e a vascularização. MÉTODO: Foi realizada análise histológica e morfométrica de 218 retalhos pré-auriculares de mulheres brancas, que se submeteram a cirurgia estética facial. Foram utilizados o imunomarcador AntiCD 34, que evidencia os vasos sanguíneos, a coloração de Weigert, para visibilização das fibras elásticas, e a coloração de Picrosirius Ultrared, para analisar e quantificar os colágenos I, III e total. Os dados foram analisados de acordo com a faixa etárias das doadoras: < 40 anos, 40 anos a 49 anos, 50 anos a 59 anos, 60 anos a 69 anos, e > 70 anos. RESULTADOS: Foi observada fragmentação e desorganização das fibras de colágeno, especialmente acima de 60 anos. Não houve diferenças significantes entre a idade e a espessura da derme e da epiderme, porém foi identificada relação com as porcentagens de colágeno I, III e total (P < 0,001). Houve aumento da densidade de fibras elásticas com a progressão da idade (P < 0,001). Comparando-se as peles das pacientes de faixas etárias vizinhas, com diferença de uma década entre elas, não houve diferença significativa na quantidade de material elástico dessas peles; porém, ao se comparar aquelas com diferença de 2 ou mais décadas nas faixas etárias, o aumento foi significante (P < 0,05). A diferença do número de vasos não foi significante (P = 0,112). CONCLUSÕES: O envelhecimento promoveu redução do colágeno, degradação e fragmentação das fibras, e aumento da densidade de material elástico desorganizado, e não influenciou no número de vasos sanguíneos da derme.

BACKGROUND: In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the influence of aging on the skin quality of white-skinned women by assessing collagen levels, elastic material density, and vascularization. METHODS: Histological and morphometric analyses were performed on 218 preauricular skin fragments from white-skinned women who underwent facial cosmetic surgery. Anti-CD34 was used to identify the blood vessels, Weigert's staining was used to visualize elastic fibers, and Picro-sirius Ultra Red staining was employed for analyzing and quantifying the expression of type I, III, and total collagen. Data were analyzed according to the following donor age groups: < 40, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and > 70 years. RESULTS: Fragmentation and disorganization of collagen fibers were observed in certain samples, particularly in samples from patients aged > 60 years. Significant differences between age and the thickness of the dermis and epidermis were not detected. However, a relationship was identified between age and the percentages of type I, III, and total collagen, and an increase of elastic fibers density was associated with age progression (P < 0.001). The comparison of the skin of patients with a decade difference in age did not reveal a significant difference in the elastic material quality; however, when the age difference was of 2 decades or more, there was a significant difference in elastic fibers (P < 0.05). The difference in the number of blood vessels between the groups was not significant (P = 0.112). CONCLUSIONS: Aging promoted collagen reduction, fiber degradation and fragmentation, and increased disorganized elastic material density; however, it did not affect the number of dermal blood vessels.

Desnutrição materna durante a lactação em ratos Wistar: efeitos sobre as fibras elásticas da matriz extracelular na traqueia dos filhotes / Maternal malnutrition during lactation in Wistar rats: effects on elastic fibers of the extracellular matrix in the trachea of offspring

OBJETIVO: Investigar os efeitos da desnutrição proteica materna durante a lactação sobre as fibras elásticas da traqueia de filhotes de ratos Wistar. MÉTODOS: Ao nascimento, 12 filhotes machos de duas ratas Wistar foram igualmente divididos em dois grupos: grupo controle, cuja mãe recebeu água e dieta padrão de laboratório ad libitum durante a lactação, e grupo restrição proteica (RP), cuja mãe recebeu água ad libitum e dieta isoenergética com RP (8% de proteína). Aos 21 dias de vida, os filhotes foram sacrificados, e suas traqueias foram ressecadas. As fibras elásticas foram coradas pelo método de resorcina-fucsina de Weigert (precedido de oxidação) e avaliadas sob microscopia óptica. As determinações morfométricas foram feitas por estereologia, utilizando o método de contagem de pontos, e expressas em densidade volumétrica. RESULTADOS: As fibras elásticas foram identificadas abaixo da mucosa traqueal, sendo a maioria em distribuição longitudinal. Além disso, camadas circulares bem definidas de fibras elásticas envolviam as superfícies interna e externa do anel cartilaginoso. Não houve diferenças entre os grupos quanto à organização e distribuição das fibras elásticas. A densidade volumétrica das fibras elásticas dos filhotes nos grupos controle e RP foi de, respectivamente, 2,46 ± 0,99% e 3,25 ± 1,13% (p < 0,01). CONCLUSÕES: Nossos resultados sugerem que a densidade volumétrica de fibras elásticas é maior em filhotes de ratos alimentados por fêmeas submetidas a dieta com RP do que naqueles de mães recebendo dieta normal.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of maternal protein malnutrition during lactation on the elastic fibers in the tracheas of Wistar rat pups. METHODS: At delivery, 12 male pups of two Wistar rat dams were equally divided into two groups: control, in which the dam received water and standard rat chow ad libitum during lactation; and protein-restricted (PR), in which the dam received water ad libitum and an isoenergetic PR diet (8% protein). At 21 days of age, the pups were killed and their tracheas were excised. The elastic fibers were stained with Weigert's resorcin-fuchsin (after oxidation) and evaluated under light microscopy. Morphometric determinations were performed by stereology, with the point-counting method, and expressed as volumetric densities. RESULTS: Elastic fibers, most having a longitudinal distribution, were identified beneath the tracheal mucosa. In addition, well-defined circular layers of elastic fibers were found around the inner and outer surfaces of the cartilaginous ring. There were no differences between the groups regarding the organization and distribution of the elastic fibers. The volumetric density of the elastic fibers of the pups in the control and PR groups was 2.46 ± 0.99% and 3.25 ± 1.13%, respectively (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The volumetric density of elastic fibers appears to be greater in rat pups breastfed by dams receiving a PR diet than in those breastfed by dams receiving a normal diet.

Fibroelastic components of the vesicourethral junction of rats in the aging process / Componentes fibroelásticos de la unión vesicouretral de ratas en el proceso de envejecimiento

The vesicourethral junction comprising the vesical trigone, is relevant in setting and positioning of the urinary bladder, along with the vesical neck, fixed by lateral ligaments of the bladder and tendinous arch of the pelvis fascia. Namely,the puboprostatic ligament (men) and the pubovesical (women). The circular set elastic fibers in this junction are important and valuable in the elasticity and plasticity of the area, allowing quick expansion and withdrawal with the flow of urine, and associated to smooth muscle tissue and nerve control form an important collective to maintain urinary continence. The objective of the present study is to describe the elastic system in the vesicouretral junction in relation to aging and its involvement in the states of urinary continence and incontinence, as well as the study of the vesicouretral junction in various age groups while evaluating with electron transmission microscopy. To carry out the study, 12 Wistar rats were used, divided into groups: neonate (4 animals), adult group (4 animals) and aged group (4 animals). Electron transmission microscopy with use of tanic acid technique associated to glutaraldehyde fixation, satisfactorily showed the extreme structural differences between mature elaunin and oxytalan fibers present between intercelular spaces and bundles of collagen fibers. The phases of elastogenesis in neonate animals and degradation of the elastic system of older animals were also evaluated.

La unión vesico-uretral, componente del trígono vesical, posee una relevante importancia en la fijación y posicionamiento de la vejiga urinaria conjuntamente con el cuello vesical, fijado por los ligamentos laterales de la vejiga y arco tendinoso de la fascia de la pelvis. Principalmente, sus componentes anteriores son: el ligamento puboprostático en los hombres y el ligamento pubovesical en las mujeres. Las fibras elásticas dispuestas circularmente en esta unión, son de valiosa importancia en la elasticidad y plasticidad de la región, permitiendo expansión y retiro rápido con el flujo de la orina, y asociado a musculatura lisa y control nervioso forman un conjunto importante para el mantenimiento de la continencia urinaria. Debido a existencia de puntos no esclarecidos en esta región en relación al sistema elástico y su participación en los estados de continencia/incontinencia urinaria, el presente trabajo tiene por objetivo el estudio de la unión vesico-uretral evaluándola en diferentes grupos etarios, a través de la microscopía electrónica de transmisión. Fueron utilizados 12 ratones Wistar, divididos en grupo de neonatos (4 animales), grupo adulto (4 animales) y grupo de ratones viejos (4 animales). La microscopía electrónica de transmisión, con uso de la técnica del ácido tánico asociado al fijador glutaraldeído, mostró satisfactoriamente las diferencias ultraestructurales entre las fibras elásticas maduras, elaunínicas y oxitalánicas, presentes entre los espacios intercelulares de las células musculares y haces de fibras colágenas, y también fases de elastogénesis en animales neonatos y envejecimiento y degradación del sistema elástico en los animales mayores.

Histomorphometric and sympathetic innervation of the human internal thoracic artery

INTRODUCTION: Internal thoracic artery (ITA) is an established arterial graft for the coronary artery by-pass surgery. Special micro-anatomical features of the ITA wall may protect it from age related pathological changes. One of the complications seen after coronary artery bypass grafting is vasospasm. Sympathetic nerves may be involved in vasospasm. OBJECTIVE: To ascertain the sympathetic innervation of the internal thoracic artery and to assess the effect of aging on this artery by histomorphometry. METHOD: Fifty-four human internal thoracic artery samples were collected from 27 cadavers (19 male and 8 female) with ages of 19 to 83 years. Samples were divided into three age groups: G1, 19-40 years; G2, 41-60 years; G3, >61 years. Sections (thickness 5 mm) of each sample were taken and stained with hematoxylin-eosin and Verhoeff-Van Gieson stains. Five of fifty-four samples were processed for tyrosine hydroxylase immunostaining. RESULTS: The thickness of the tunica intima was found to be constant in all age groups, whereas the thickness of the tunica media decreased in proportion to age. Verhoeff-Van Gieson staining showed numerous elastic laminae in the tunica media. Significant differences (p<0.0001) in the number of elastic laminae were found between G1 with G2 cadavers, between G2 and G3 cadavers and between G3 and G1 cadavers. Tyrosine hydroxylase immunostaining demonstrated sympathetic fibers, located mainly in the tunica adventitia and the adventitia-media border. The sympathetic nerve fiber area and sympathetic index were found to be 0.0016 mm² and 0.012, respectively. DISCUSSION: Histology of the ITA showed features of the elastic artery. This may be associated with lower incidence of Atherosclerosis or intimal hyperplasia in ITA samples even in elderly cases. Low sympathetic index (0.012) of ITA may be associated with fewer incidences of sympathetic nervous systems problems (vasospasm) of the ITA. CONCLUSION: Sympathetic ...

Estudo morfológico da sínfise púbica de ratos e camundongos durante a gravidez / Morphological study of rats and mice pubic symphysis during pregnancy

O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar as diferenças existentes na sínfise púbica de camundongos e ratos fêmeas, grávidas e não grávidas, descrevendo as alterações morfológicas ocorridas na articulação com a finalidade de entender os movimentos apresentados pela articulação ao longo da gestação. Para tal, as sínfises foram coletadas de camundongos fêmeas grávidas no 6º, 12º e 18º dias de gestação, e nas ratas com 18 dias de gestação. Foram fixadas em paraformoldeído e a seguir descalcificadas em solução de Morse. Na sequência, as peças foram incluídas em parafina. Cortes de 7 micrômetros foram realizados e corados em Picrosirius e Resorcina-Fucsina. A coloração com Picrosirius evidenciou em camundongos fêmeas virgens a presença de fibras grossas de colágeno diferente dos outros grupos de camundongos, os quais apresentaram fibras finas. A análise de fibras elásticas mostrou que, com o decorrer da gestação, estas aumentam em espessura e número. Em ratas com 18 dias de gestação foi observado o aparecimento de tecido conjuntivo fibroso no disco de cartilagem hialina, aumentando assim, o espaço inter-púbico e modificando a estrutura de sincondrose encontrada nos animais virgens. Observou-se também aumento no diâmetro e quantidade de fibras elásticas em relação às ratas virgens. Podemos concluir que a articulação de camundongos fêmeas grávidas passam por transformações estruturais qualitativas e quantitativas ao longo da gravidez. Em ratas prenhas, além do aumento de fibras elásticas e da distância entre os ossos do quadril, a articulação diferenciou-se pelo aparecimento de tecido conjuntivo fibroso para facilitar o parto.

The objective of this study was to assess the existing differences in the pubic symphysis of female rats and mice, pregnant and non pregnant, describing the morphological alterations occurred in the joint and understanding the movements shown during pregnancy. The pubic symphysis were collected from female pregnant mice on the 6th, 12th and 18th days of pregnancy, and from rats with 18 days of pregnancy. They were fixed in paraformoldehyde and following decalcificated with Morse’s solution. The samples were then, included in paraffin. Seven micrometers slices were made and stained with Picrosirius and Resorcin-Fuchsin. The Picrosirius staining had shown, in virgin female mice, the presence of thick collagen fibers different from the other groups of mice, which presented thin fibers. The analysis of elastic fibers showed that, with the progress of pregnancy there is an increase in their thickness and number. In rats with 18 days of pregnancy, an appearance of fibrous conjunctive tissue on the hyaline cartilage disc was observed, enlarging the inter-pubic space and modifying the synchondrosis structure found in the virgin animals. It was also observed an increase in diameter and amount of elastic fibers comparing to virgin rats. We conclude that the pregnant female mice’s joint undergoes transformations in structure, quality and amount during the pregnancy. In pregnant rats, besides the increase of elastic fibers and the distance between the hip’s bone, the joint had differred by the appearance of fibrous conjunctive tissue, thus making the birth easier.

Evaluación histológica e histoquímica de las fibras colágenas y elásticas de los tejidos de la ATM humana / Histological and histochemical evaluation of collagen and elastic fibers in human TMJ tissue

Se estudió la cantidad y distribución de las fibras colágenas y elásticas de los distintos tejidos que conforman la articulación témporomandibular humana (ATM). Se utilizaron diecisiete ATMs humanas. Las muestras fueron procesadas con técnicas histológicas e histoquímicas. Al evaluar la morfología articular, ocho presentaron características histológicas normales y nueve alteradas. La cantidad y distribución de fibras elásticas varió para cada tejido articular en estudio, siendo notable la cantidad de fibras elásticas en la zona anterior y retrodiscal. Se determinó gran cantidad de fibras colágenas tipo I en todos los tejidos articulares. Entre los manojos de colágeno I se encontraron fibras de colágeno tipo III. Estos hallazgos nos indican que la cantidad y distribución de estas fibras están relacionadas con el rol funcional de los tejidos articulares donde ellas se encuentran. No se encontraron diferencias significativas en la cantidad de fibras elásticas, colágenas tipo I y III entre los tejidos conectivos evaluados en articulaciones sanas y enfermas.

The quantity and distribution of collagen and elastic fibers of seventeen human TMJ tissues were studied. Histological and histochemical methods were used. The histological evaluation showed eight TMJs with normal morphology and nine with joint tissue alterations. Elastic fibers amount and distribution was different in every analyzed articular tissue, noting the amount of elastic fibers in the anterior and retrodiscal zones. A great quantity of type I collagen fibers was found in all the joint tissues. Type III collagen fibers were found among the type I collagen bundles. These findings suggest a relationship between function and the amount and distribution of these fibers. No significant difference was found in the quantity of elastic, collagen type I and III fibers among the connective tissues in healthy and sick joints.

Estudo sobre as fibras do sistema elástico na gengiva humana / Study of elastic system fibers in human gingiva

Objetivo: Realizar um mapeamento da participação das fibras do sistema elástico na gengiva humana. Métodos: Para a realização desse estudo, fragmentos de gengiva humana foram analisados pelos métodos de histoquímica e imunohistoquímica, retirados após cirurgia periodontal, com finalidade protética, de dez indivíduos entre 18 e 60 anos de idade, para avaliar a participação do sistema de fibras elásticas neste tecido. Resultados: Os resultados demonstraram a presença dos três tipos de fibras do sistema elástico, ou seja, fibras oxitalânicas, elaunínicas e elásticas, distribuídas da seguinte maneira: a) as fibras oxitalânicas formam uma rede de fibras delgadas, localizadas próximas à membrana basal, ao nível das papilas do tecido conjuntivo; b) as fibras elaunínicas encontram-se em íntimo contato com as fibras oxitalânicas, nas regiões papilar e subpapilar, seguindo os feixes de fibras colágenas; c) as fibras elásticas foram observadas em pequena quantidade, dispersas pelo tecido conjuntivo mais profundo e ao redor dos vasos sanguíneos. Conclusão: Os três tipos de fibras do sistema elástico, ou seja, oxitalânica, elaunínica e elástica, são constituintes normais da matriz extracelular do tecido conjuntivo da gengiva humana.

Objective: To map the participation of the elastic system fibers of human gingiva. Methods: To conduct this study, fragments of human gingiva from ten individuals aged between 18 and 60 years, removed after periodontal surgery for prosthetic purposes, were analyzed by the histochemical and immuno-histochemical methods, to evaluate the participation of the elastic system fibers in this tissue. Results: The results demonstrated the presence of three type of elastic system fibers, that is to say, oxitalan, elaunin and elastic fibers, distributed as follows: 1) the oxitalan fibers form a network of thin fibers, located close to the basal membrane, at the level of the conjunctive tissue papillae; b) elaunin fibers are found in close contact with the oxitalan fibers in the papillary and submaxillary regions, following the collagen fiber bundles; c) a small quantity of elastic fibers were observed, dispersed throughout the deeper conjunctive tissue and around the blood vessels. Conclusion: The three types of elastic system fibers, that is, oxitalan, elaunin and elastic fibers are normal constituents of the extracellular matrix of human gingiva conjunctive tissue.

Alterações do tecido conjuntivo e músculo liso no pênis de coelhos diabéticos / Connective tissue and smooth muscle alterations in diabetic rabbit penis

Introdução: Embora a disfunção erétil seja um problema frequente em pacientes com diabete mellitus, poucos estudos avaliaram as alterações da estrutura peniana nesta condição. Objetivo: Avaliar a densidade volumétrica de colágeno, fibras do sistema elástico e células musculares lisas no corpo cavernoso (CC), corpo esponjoso (CE) e túnica albugínea (TA) no pênis de coelhos diabéticos. Método: Vinte seis coelhos Nova Zelândia foram utilizados. A diabete foi induzida em 13 coelhos com 8 semanas de idade com injeção intravenosa de 100 mg/kg de aloxano. 13 colehos normais serviram como controle. Após 10 semanas os animais foram mortos com overdose de thiopenthal sódico endovenoso. Os pênis foram dissecados retirando-se um fragmento da porção média sendo fixado em formol 10% tamponado (pH 7.3). Todo material foi processado para inclusão em parafina seguindo a técnica histológica de rotina. Principais medidas: A análise estereológica do colágeno, das fibras do sistema elástico e do músculo liso foi realizada em cortes de 5um no sistema teste M42. Os dados foram expressos em densidade volumétrica (Vv %). A organização de colágeno foi avaliada pela coloração do Picrosirius red sob polarização. Resultados: na túnica albugínea de coelhos diabéticos, houve um aumento de 88% da espessura (p<0.0003) com um acentuado turnover do colágeno. Além disso, o conteúdo de fibras elásticas foi 34% maior (p<0.0001). No CC dos coelhos diabéticos o colágeno diminuiu 45% (p<0.0001) com a presença de um colágeno mais organizado. As fibras do sistema elástico tiveram um decréscimo de 46% (p<0.0001). A diabete induziu um aumento de 11% de colágeno no CE (P<0.0235) com um acentuado turnover do colágeno. No CC de coelhos diabéticos houve um aumento de 40% de músculo liso (p<0.0001), enquanto no CE uma diminuição de 38% (p<0.0001). Conclusão: Os tecidos do pênis foram afetados de formas diferentes pela diabete, possivelmente devido à heterogeneidade celular...

Introdution: Although erectile dysfunction is a frequent problem in patients with diabetes mellitus, few studies have evaluated penile structure alteration in this condition. Aim: To assess the volumetric density of collagen, elastic system fibers and smooth muscles cells in the corpora cavernosa (CC), corpus spongiosum (CE) and tunica albuginea (TA) in the penis of diabetic rabbits. Methods: Twenty-six New Zealand white rabbits were used. Diabetes was induced at 8 weeks of age in 13 rabbits by intravenous injection of 100 mg/kg of alloxan. The remaining 13 rabbits served as a control group. After 10 weeks, the rabbits were killed using sodium thiopenthal. Mid-shaft fragments of the penis were obtained and processed by routine histological techniques. Main Outcome Measures: Stereological analysis of collagen, elastic system fibers and smooth muscle was performed in 5-um sections by using a M42 System Test grid. Data were expressed as volumetric density (Vv - %). Collagen organization was evaluated by Picrosirius red staining under polarization. Results: In the TA of diabetic rabbits, thickness increased by 88% (p<0.0003) with an enhanced collagen turnover. Moreover, the elastic fiber content was 34% higher (p<0.0001). In the CC of diabetics, collagen was diminished by 45% (p<0.0001) with a more organized collagen. The elastic fibers were decreased by 46% (p<0.0001). Diabetes induced a 11% increase in CS collagen (p<0.0235) with an enhanced collagen turnover. Smooth muscle in the CC of diabetic rabbits was increased by 40% (p<0.0001), whereas in the CS it was decreased by a similar amount (p<0.0001). Conclusion: Penile tissues were affected differently by diabetes, possibly due to cellular heterogeneity. These changes could have an impact on blood flow and tissue resistance, and therefore, might adversely affect erection...

Imunohistoquímica como método de estudo das fibras elásticas em prega vocal humana / Immunohistochemistry as a method to study elastic fibers of human vocal fold

OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste trabalho é o de verificar a aplicabilidade do método imunohistoquímico na quantificação das diferentes formas das fibras elásticas em prega vocal humana. FORMA DE ESTUDO: coorte transversal. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Foram seguidos os seguintes critérios de inclusão: idade entre 25 e 40 anos, gênero masculino, cor branca, morte causada por ferimento de arma de fogo, menos de doze horas de morte, ausência de intubação traqueal e de trauma na região cervical e que, por análise microscópica, não apresentassem qualquer alteração da mucosa das pregas vocais. Por estes critérios dez pregas vocais foram obtidas e selecionou-se, aleatoriamente, uma prega vocal que pertencia a um indivíduo de 28 anos. A prega vocal foi transversalmente seccionada em nove regiões e três cortes de cada fragmento foram utilizados para a realização das colorações Verhoeff e resorcina-fuchsina de Weighert e para a realização do estudo imunohistoquímico. Realizou-se quantificação colorimétrica das fibras elásticas. RESULTADO: As camadas intermediária e profunda da prega vocal apresentam valores muito superiores aos da camada superficial, nas colorações histológicas. A quantidade de tropoelastina identificada pelos anticorpos não apresentou grandes diferenças entre os valores da camada superficial e os da camada intermediária e profunda. CONCLUSÃO: A imunohistoquímica é uma técnica que identifica, em prega vocal humana, todas as formas de fibras elásticas e que também possibilita a realização de medidas objetivas.

A modified method for the selective staining of elastic system fibers in methacrylate tissue sections

The elastic system fibers are abundant elements of the extracellular matrix found in organs such as skin, blood vessels, lung and in elastic cartilage and elastic tendons. These fibers have been studied by several selective staining methods, such as resorcin-fuchsin for light microscopy and hematoxylin-eosin plus fluorescence and confocal scanning laser microscopy. However, most of these techniques are only efficient for tissues embedded in paraffin or paraplast, since most dyes show low penetration into glycol methacrylate resins. In this report, we describe a variation of Weigert´s resorcin-fuchsin method that involves the pretreatment of resin sections with potassium permanganate. This procedure increased the affinity between the dye and elastic fibers, and stained the elastic fibers in black of dark violet, the nuclei in purple and other structures in light blue. Thus, this modification of the original method provided excellent artifact-free demarcation of elastic fibers in well-preserved tissues.

Histomorphometrical study of the elastic fiber system in the anterior cerebral artery of man

The aim of the present study was to quantify the distribution of the elastic fiber system within the wall of the anterior cerebral artery. The study is based on the works of Glynn (1940) and Stehbens (1989) concerning the incidence and origin of brain aneurysms and recent studies of the elastic fibers. The anterior cerebral artery was divided into three segments, S1, S2 and S3: S1 corresponds to the origin of the anterior cerebral artery, S2 is located at the junction of the anterior cerebral artery with the anterior communicating artery, and S3 at the junction of the rostrum and genu of the corpus callosum,which were submitted to routine histological procedures. A histomorphometrical study was undertaken using an estimation of the linear density (Ld) of the components of the fibrous elastic system which evaluates their full length in each segment. Data were analyzed using first order linear regression methods. The results show a decreasing quantity of elastic fibers in the three segments (S1>S2>S3). Study of the elastic fiber system may originate new concepts regarding the genesis of cerebral artery aneurysm

Meso and microscopic study of the facial vein and adjacent tissues

El objetivo de esta investigación es estudiar las relaciones de la vena facial con las estructutras adyacentes. Las venas faciales, derecha e izquierda, de 50 cadáveres, fueron disecadas bajo microscopio estereoscopio y descritas sus relaciones con estructuras vecinas. Segmentos de las venas facialesde 10 cadáveres fueron sometidos a cortes histológicos teñidos por el método de weigert modificado por Van Gieson. La vena facial, a pesar de su corto trayecto, sufre importantes variaciones en la constitución de su pared. En sus relaciones de sintopía, se relacionan con músculos, tejido adiposo y glándulas entre otros tejidos. Verificamos la existencia de fibras elásticas y colágenas, conectando la adventicia a los tejidos adyacentes, así como formando una vaina fibrosa alrededor de la vena facial , lo que probablemente protege esta vena de tracciones poroducidas durante los movimientos de las estructuras vecinas. En el trabajo también son discutidas las implicancias de la sintopía de la vena facial y de los requerimientos biodinámicos generados por el movimiento sobre la morfología de esta vena

Estudo morfológico da transição cavo-atrial inferior no homem: consideraçöes morfo-funcionais / Morphologic study of transition of the inferior cavo-atrial in man: morphofunctional considerations

Objetivo - Analisar a presença, a disposiçäo espacial e a inter-relaçäo dos elementos fibrosos integrantes da transiçäo entre a veia cava inferior e o átrio direito, com vistas a possíveis interpretaçöes morfo-funcionais. Métodos - Vinte cadáveres, de ambos os sexos, com idades variando entre 20 e 40 anos. As peças, devidamente conservadas, foram analisadas macro e microscopicamente. Foram retirados,fragmentos da transiçäo cavo-atrial inferior e analisados ao estereomicroscópico sob epiluminaçäo. Resultados - A parede anteior da veia cava inferior sempre apresenta válvula e recebe fibras musculares cardíacas de trípice procedência e essas fibras ultrapassam a válvula e se dirigem à túnica íntima da veia. Na parede posterior, as fibras musculares cardíacas procedem da crista terminalis e do septo inter-atrial. Na transiçäo, os feixes musculares lisos se apresentam oblíquos e circulares e os feixes elásticos se continuam da veia para o átrio direito. Conclusäo - Como a disposiçäo dos feixes musculares cardíacos na transiçäo apresenta direçäo predominantemente circular e ainda, os feixes musculares lisos da veia cava inferior também apresentam essa direçäo, pode-se admitir que, ao ocorrer a sístole atrial, esses feixes musculares obliterariam a transiçäo cavo-atrial, impedindo o refluxo venoso, auxiliando portanto, a válvula da veia cava inferior

Purpose - Analysis the fibrous elements of the transiction between the inferior vena cava and right atrium Methods - Twenty adult (20-40 ys) were used. Properly preserved samples were analysed macro and microscopicaly. Fragments were excised from the inferior cavo-atrial transiction and analysed under stereomicroscopic. Results - The inferior vena cava valve was disposed at the wall of the vein. Insertions of striated muscular cardiac fibers bundles are seen at the anterior wall of inferior vena cava. These muscular bundles are directed towards the intima of the vein. There were at the venous posterior wall insertions of the cardiac muscular bundles, originated from the crista terminalis andirom the interatrial septum, these bandles show an orientation predominantly oblique, with tendency to become circular. At the transiction level, the bundles of smooth muscular fibers of the inferior vena cava, presented an oblique disposition, becoming predominantly circular. Conclusion - As the disposition of muscular cardiac fibers presents a predominantly circular direction and, the bundles of smooth mascular fibers of the inferior vena cava present the same direction, we could postulate that, when the atrial systole occurs, these muscular bundles would obliterate the cavo-atrial transiction, preventing, this way, the venous reflux