Rabbit vomeronasal organ-derivered cells have mesenchymal profile and neuronal commitment / Las células derivadas del órgano vomeronasal del conejo tienen perfil mesenquimatoso y compromiso neuronal

SUMMARY: The vomeronasal organ (VNO) is an accessory organ involved on the olfactory pathway, that detects pheromones and emits signals in order to modulate social and reproductive behavior. The VNO stem cells replace neurons throughout life. The aim of this study was to isolate and characterize cells derived from the vomeronasal organ from New Zealand rabbits. Five male rabbits with 120 days were used for cell isolation and culture. Results: VNO-derived cells presented labelling for proliferation (PCNA), undifferentiated profile (Nanog), neuronal (GFAP), mesenchymal stem cells (CD73, CD90 and CD105 and Stro-1). Also, presence of cytoskeletal (Vimentin, b-tubulin and CK-18) and absence of hematopoietic markers (CD34, CD117 and CD45) both by immunofluorescence and flow cytometry. By PCR it was possible to verify the expression of some undifferentiated profile (Oct-4), neuronal (Nestin) and mesenchymal (CD73, CD105 and Vimentin) genes. Functionally, VNO-derived cells differentiate in vitro into adipocytes, osteocytes and chondrocytes, and presented no tumorigenic potential when injected to Balb/c nu/nu mice. In conclusion, the rabbit VNO-derived cells have a profile that could be supportive to VNO olfactory/neuroreceptor epithelium by delivering factors to epithelial turnover or even by differentiation into epithelial cells to replacement of commissural epithelium.

RESUMEN: El órgano vomeronasal (OVN) es un órgano accesorio de la vía olfatoria, que detecta feromonas y emite señales que afectan la modulación del comportamiento social y reproductivo. Las células madre OVN reemplazan las neuronas durante toda la vida. El objetivo de este estudio fue aislar y caracterizar células derivadas del órgano vomeronasal de conejos raza Nueva Zelanda. Para el aislamiento y el cultivo celular se utilizaron cinco conejos machos con una edad de 120 días. Las células del OVN presentaron etiquetado para la proliferación (PCNA), un perfil indiferenciado (Nanog), neuronal (GFAP), células madre mesenquimales (CD73, CD90 y CD105 y Stro-1). Además, se ob- servó presencia de citoesqueleto (Vimentina, β-tubulina y CK-18) y ausencia de marcadores hematopoyéticos (CD34, CD117 y CD45) tanto por inmunofluorescencia como por citometría de flujo. Me- diante PCR fue posible verificar la expresión de algunos genes de perfil indiferenciado (Oct-4), neuronal (Nestin) y mesenquimatoso (CD73, CD105 y Vimentin). Las células derivadas del OVN se diferencian in vitro en adipocitos, osteocitos y condrocitos, y no presentan un potencial tumorigénico al ser infiltrados en ratones Balb / c nu / nu. En conclusión, las células derivadas de OVN de conejo tienen un perfil que podría ser compatible con el epitelio olfatorio / neurorreceptor de OVN transmitiendo factores al recambio epitelial o incluso mediante la diferenciación en células epiteliales para reemplazar el epitelio comisural.

Histomorphology of vomeronasal organ in Scincella tsinlingensis / Histomorfología del órgano vomeronasal en Scincella tsinlingensis

Due to the great change in the morphology of squamate vomeronasal organ (VNO), the histomorphology characteristics of VNO in Scincella tsinlingensis were studied by light and electronic microscopy. The results indicated that the VNO of S. tsinlingensis was located at the base of nasal cavity and consisted of a mushroom body situated anteroventrally and a sensory epithelium (SE) situated dorsocaudally. SE was composed of supporting cells, receptor cells and basal cells, and the supporting cells contained secretory granules near the surface membrane. Most of receptor cells were irregular in shape with long cytoplasmic extensions and characterized by microtubules, vesicles, and mitochondria. The basal cells with long cytoplasmic extensions were also irregular in shape and appeared a greater electron density than others. The thick nerve bundles were found on the dorsomedial area of VNO, and the surface of mushroom body was non-sensory epithelium consisting of ciliated and basal cells, without goblet cells. Epithelial cells were arranged in irregular, with many cilia and microvilli distributed on its free surface. Cells on the basal layer were irregularly circular in shape and arranged sparsely. Taken together, the results indicated that the fine structure of VNO in S. tsinlingensis was similar to other species from scincomorphs.

Debido al gran cambio en la morfología del órgano vomeronasal (OVN), se estudiaron las características histomorfológicas en la Scincella tsinlingensis por microscopías de luz y electrónica. Los resultados indicaron que el OVN de S. tsinlingensis se localizaba en la base de la cavidad nasal y consistía en un cuerpo como hongo situado anteroventralmente y un epitelio sensorial (ES) situado dorso caudamente. El ES estaba compuesto de células de soporte, células receptoras y células basales, y las células de soporte contenían gránulos secretores cerca de la membrana superficial. En gran parte de la mayoría de las células receptoras se observó una forma irregular con largas extensiones citoplasmáticas, caracterizadas por microtúbulos, vesículas y mitocondrias. Las células basales con extensiones citoplasmáticas también tenían forma irregular y algunas parecían tener una mayor densidad de electrones. Los haces gruesos nerviosos se encontraron en el área dorsomedial del OVN, la superficie del cuerpo de estaba compuesto de epitelio no sensorial y consistía de células ciliadas y basales, sin células caliciformes. Las células epiteliales estaban dispuestas de manera irregular, con muchos cilios y microvellosidades distribuidas en su superficie libre. Las células en la capa basal eran escasas y de forma circular irregular. Tomados en conjunto, los resultados indicaron que la estructura fina del OVN en S. tsinlingensis era similar a otras especies de scincomorpha.

Características de carcaça, órgão vomeronasal, concentrações séricas de testosterona e IGF-I em machos Nelore com ductos incisivos bloqueados / Characteristics of carcass, vomeronasal organ, serum testosterone andIGF-I concentrations in Nellore males with blocked incisor ducts

Objetivou-se avaliar características quali - quantitativas da carcaça em machos Nelore, submetidos ao bloqueio dos ductos incisivos no período pré puberal. Além disso, objetivou-se avaliar as concentrações séricas de testosterona e do hormônio do crescimento semelhante a insulina do tipo I (IGF-I), e a arquitetura histológica do órgão vomeronasal (OVN). Trinta e quatro machos, no período pré puberal, foram divididos em três grupos experimentais: inteiros – animais controle sem qualquer procedimento (n = 11); bloqueados - animais com os ductos incisivos bilateralmente obstruídos (n = 10); castrados - animais com orquiepididectomia bilateral (n = 13). O OVN foi obtido no abate, ao final do experimento, para avaliação histomorfométrica. As coletas de sangue foram realizadas a cada três meses, em dois turnos (manhã e tarde), totalizando cinco avaliações. Observaram-se maiores (P0,05). Registrou-se redução da altura do epitélio neuro sensitivo do OVN nos bloqueados e castrados (P<0,05). Foi registrada menor concentração de testosterona nos bloqueados nas coletas quatro e cinco à tarde (P<0,05). Conclui-se que a obstrução dos ductos incisivos reduziu os estímulos sensoriais para o OVN, que por sua vez, promoveu alteração na concentração sérica de testosterona, sem alterar o ganho de peso dos animais, porém, não promoveu melhoria na qualidade da carcaça nas condições deste estudo.

A total of 34 prepuberal Nellore males were divided into three groups: control – animals without any procedure (n = 11); blocked - with bilaterally incisors ducts obstructed (n = 10); castrated - with bilateral orchiectomy (n = 13). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of blocking the vomeronasal organ (VNO) in qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the carcass. Also, this study aimed to evaluate testosterone and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-I) serum concentration, and the histological architecture of the OVN. Blood samples were taken every three months during two daily collections (morning and afternoon), totalizing five evaluations. It was observed higher (P 0.05). It was observed a reduction (P<0.05) of the VNO sensory epithelium height in blocked and castrated groups compared with control group. It was registered lower (P<0.05) serum testosterone concentration in blocked group at the fourth and fifth blood collection (afternoon). It was concluded that the obstruction of the incisive ducts reduced the sensorial stimuli for the OVN, which, in turn, promoted a change in the serum concentration of testosterone, without altering the weight gain of the animals, but did not promote improvement in the quality of the carcass under the conditions of this study.

Características de carcaça, órgão vomeronasal, concentrações séricas de testosterona e IGF-I em machos Nelore com ductos incisivos bloqueados / Characteristics of carcass, vomeronasal organ, serum testosterone and IGF-I concentrations in Nellore males with blocked incisor ducts

Objetivou-se avaliar características quali - quantitativas da carcaça em machos Nelore, submetidos ao bloqueio dos ductos incisivos no período pré puberal. Além disso, objetivou-se avaliar as concentrações séricas de testosterona e do hormônio do crescimento semelhante a insulina do tipo I (IGF-I), e a arquitetura histológica do órgão vomeronasal (OVN). Trinta e quatro machos, no período pré puberal, foram divididos em três grupos experimentais: inteiros ­ animais controle sem qualquer procedimento (n = 11); bloqueados - animais com os ductos incisivos bilateralmente obstruídos (n = 10); castrados - animais com orquiepididectomia bilateral (n = 13). O OVN foi obtido no abate, ao final do experimento, para avaliação histomorfométrica. As coletas de sangue foram realizadas a cada três meses, em dois turnos (manhã e tarde), totalizando cinco avaliações. Observaram-se maiores (P<0,05) pesos corporais finais (inteiros = 494,1 ± 28,71; bloqueados = 500,6 ± 23,6 e castrados = 468,3 ± 21,8 Kg) nos inteiros e bloqueados. O acabamento da carcaça foi maior nos castrados (P<0,05) em relação aos inteiros e bloqueados, enquanto o rendimento de carcaça não apresentou diferenças entre os três tratamentos (P>0,05). Registrou-se redução da altura do epitélio neuro sensitivo do OVN nos bloqueados e castrados (P<0,05). Foi registrada menor concentração de testosterona nos bloqueados nas coletas quatro e cinco à tarde (P<0,05). Conclui-se que a obstrução dos ductos incisivos reduziu os estímulos sensoriais para o OVN, que por sua vez, promoveu alteração na concentração sérica de testosterona, sem alterar o ganho de peso dos animais, porém, não promoveu melhoria na qualidade da carcaça nas condições deste estudo.

A total of 34 prepuberal Nellore males were divided into three groups: control ­ animals without any procedure (n = 11); blocked - with bilaterally incisors ducts obstructed (n = 10); castrated - with bilateral orchiectomy (n = 13). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of blocking the vomeronasal organ (VNO) in qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the carcass. Also, this study aimed to evaluate testosterone and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-I) serum concentration, and the histological architecture of the OVN. Blood samples were taken every three months during two daily collections (morning and afternoon), totalizing five evaluations. It was observed higher (P<0.05) final body weight (control= 494.1 ± 28.71; blocked = 500.6 ± 23.6; castrated = 468.3 ± 21.8 kg) at the control and blocked groups. Carcass finishing was higher in castrated animals (P <0.05), while carcass yield did not differ between treatments (P> 0.05). It was observed a reduction (P<0.05) of the VNO sensory epithelium height in blocked and castrated groups compared with control group. It was registered lower (P<0.05) serum testosterone concentration in blocked group at the fourth and fifth blood collection (afternoon). It was concluded that the obstruction of the incisive ducts reduced the sensorial stimuli for the OVN, which, in turn, promoted a change in the serum concentration of testosterone, without altering the weight gain of the animals, but did not promote improvement in the quality of the carcass under the conditions of this study.

Nervus terminalis and nerves to the vomeronasal organ: a study using human fetal specimens / 대한해부학회지

The human nervus terminalis (terminal nerve) and the nerves to the vomeronasal organ (VNON) are both associated with the olfactory nerves and are of major interest to embryologists. However, there is still limited knowledge on their topographical anatomy in the nasal septum and on the number and distribution of ganglion cells along and near the cribriform plate of the ethmoid bone. We observed serial or semiserial sections of 30 fetuses at 7–18 weeks (crown rump length [CRL], 25–160 mm). Calretinin and S100 protein staining demonstrated not only the terminal nerve along the anterior edge of the perpendicular lamina of the ethmoid, but also the VNON along the posterior edge of the lamina. The terminal nerve was composed of 1–2 nerve bundles that passed through the anterior end of the cribriform plate, whereas the VNON consisted of 2–3 bundles behind the olfactory nerves. The terminal nerve ran along and crossed the posterior side of the nasal branch of the anterior ethmoidal nerve. Multiple clusters of small ganglion cells were found on the lateral surfaces of the ethmoid's crista galli, which are likely the origin of both the terminal nerve and VNON. The ganglions along the crista galli were ball-like and 15–20 µm in diameter and, ranged from 40–153 in unilateral number according to our counting at 21-µm-interval except for one specimen (480 neurons; CRL, 137 mm). An effect of nerve degeneration with increasing age seemed to be masked by a remarkable individual difference.

Morfologia do órgão vomeronasal da paca (Cuniculus paca Linnaeus, 1766) / Morphology of the paca vomeronasal organ (Cuniculus paca Linnaeus, 1766)

O órgão vomeronasal é um receptor químico capaz de detectar feromônios e por essa razão está envolvido nos comportamentos reprodutivos, sociais e de defesa. A reprodução de pacas tem se destacado na área de comercialização de carne e para fins conservacionistas e de pesquisa, como modelo experimental. Diante da necessidade do detalhamento da morfologia do sistema olfatório secundário, o sistema vomeronasal, foi descrita a anatomia macroscópica, anatomia microscópica e topografia do órgão vomeronasal (OVN) da paca (Cuniculus paca). Foram utilizadas cinco pacas adultas do Setor de Animais Silvestres da FCAV, UNESP, Jaboticabal-SP. Após a eutanásia dos animais, a solução fixadora de formaldeído 10% em tampão fosfato de sódio (PBS) foi perfundida sistemicamente (via aorta ascendente). Mediante dissecação, o OVN foi localizado e individualizado para a descrição topográfica e anatômica. Posteriormente, foi isolado e incluído em parafina plástica. Cortes de cinco micrômetros foram corados com Hematoxilina-Eosina. O OVN encontra-se no assoalho da cavidade nasal em ambos os lados da base do septo nasal e está relacionado com o osso vômer, processos palatinos dos ossos pré-maxilar e maxilar. Rostralmente, comunica-se com a cavidade oral estabelecendo relação com a papila incisiva. É um órgão par com superfície irregular, levemente elíptico em secção transversal, apresentando coloração amarronzada repleta de vasos sanguíneos. À microscopia de luz, notou-se presença da cartilagem vomeronasal. O órgão é revestido por um epitélio não sensorial e neurossensorial.(AU)

The vomeronasal organ is a chemical receptor capable of detecting pheromones and for this reason is involved in reproductive, social and defense behaviors. The breeding of pacas has been highlighted in commercialization of meat and for conservation and research purposes, as an experimental model. Regarding the necessity of detailing the morphology of the secondary olfactory system, the vomeronasal system, the macroscopic anatomy, microscopic anatomy and topography of the vomeronasal organ (OVN) was described. Five adult pacas, from the wild animal Sector at FCAV, Unesp, Jaboticabal, SP were used. After the euthanasia, it was perfused 10% formaldehyde solution by ascendent aorta. The OVN was dissected for topographic and anatomical descriptions. Then, it was included in plastic paraffin. Five micrometres sections were collected and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. The OVN is located on the floor of the nasal cavity in both sides of the base of nasal septum and it was related to the vomer, palatine process of the premaxilar and maxilar bones. In rostral aspect, it has a communication with the oral cavity and with the incisive papilla. It is a paired organ with irregular surface. In transversal section is slight elliptical with brownish colour similar to a sponge full of blood vessels. By light microscopy, it was observed the vomeronasal cartilage. The organ is covered with non-sensorial and neurossensorial epithelia.(AU)

Microvascular anatomy of olfactory and accessory olfactory (vomeronasal) organs in adult Xenopus laevis: scanning electron microscopy of vascular corrosion casts / Anatomía microvascular de órganos olfatorios y accesorios (vomeronasal) en adultos Xenopus laevis: microscopía electrónica de barrido de moldes de corrosión vascular

Microvascular anatomy and histomorphology of olfactory and vomeronasal organs in adult Xenopus laevis Daudin were studied by scanning electron microscopy of vascular corrosion casts and paraplast embedded stained serial tissue sections. Results show that the arterial supply is bilaterally by terminal arterioles of the medial branch of the nasal artery and by the palatal artery. Arterioles give rise to a capillary meshwork characteristic for respiratory surfaces in principal chambers and in dorsal and caudal areas of middle chambers. Anterior and inferior areas of the middle chambers own a distinctly different capillary network with conspicuous short capillary loops. Loops have a dilated tip and extend in acute angles towards the chamber lumen. The vomeronasal organ (VNO) locates beneath the olfactory organ. It has a medial to lateral extension and attaches with its caudal circumference to the medial nasal glands. Its capillary bed displays rectangular meshes which preferentially orientate along the long axis of the VNO. Locally, capillaries form short hairpin-like or strongly twisted loops with dilated tips which point towards the lumen of the VNO. These capillaries slow-down blood velocity and may lead to an increased exchange of oxygen, nutrients and water-borne odorants in the middle chambers and of pheromones in the VNO. In the latter vascular structures are present which might serve as a vascular pump.

Se estudiaron la anatomía microvascular e histomorfología de los órganos olfatorios y vomeronasales de Xenopus laevis Daudin adultos, mediante microscopía electrónica de barrido de moldes de corrosión vascular y secciones de tejido seriadas, teñidas e incluídas en paraplast. Los resultados muestran que el suministro arterial es bilateral por arteriolas terminales de la rama medial de la arteria nasal y por la arteria palatina. Las arteriolas dan lugar a un lecho capilar característico de las superficies respiratorias en las cámaras principales y en las áreas dorsal y caudal de las cámaras intermedias. Las áreas anterior e inferior de las cámaras centrales poseen una red capilar significativamente diferente con llamativos bucles capilares cortos. Los bucles tienen una punta dilatada y se extienden en ángulos agudos hacia la luz de la cámara. El órgano vomeronasal (VNO) se ubica debajo del órgano olfatorio. Se extiende de medial a lateral y se une con su circunferencia caudal a las glándulas nasales mediales. El lecho capilar muestra mallas rectangulares que se orientan preferentemente a lo largo del eje longitudinal del VNO. Localmente, los capilares forman bucles cortos en forma de horquilla o fuertemente retorcidos con puntas dilatadas que apuntan hacia la luz del VNO. Estos capilares ralentizan la velocidad de la sangre y pueden conducir a un mayor intercambio de oxígeno, nutrientes y odorizantes, a base de agua en las cámaras intermedias y de feromonas, en el VNO. En este último, están presentes estructuras vasculares que podrían servir como una bomba vascular.

Morphology of cat vomeronasal organ non-sensory epithelium during postnatal development / 대한해부학회지

The vomeronasal organ has an important role in mammal's social and sexual behaviours. In addition, it mediates defensive behavior through detection of protein pheromone homologues. In this work, a detailed morphological description of the postnatal development of the non-sensory epithelium (NSE) lining the vomeronasal duct (VND) of the female cat is provided using various histological techniques. The study focused on newborn, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks of postnatal ages using four animals for each age. We report here for the first time that three types of NSE line the rostral segment of the VND; nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelium, stratified cuboidal epithelium, and ciliated pseudo stratified columnar ciliated epithelium with goblet cells and that the VND undergoes 90° a change in its its axis from the vertical position caudally to the horizontal position rostral. The NSE which lines the lateral side of the VND middle segment is consists of cliated pseudostratified columnar epithelium without goblet cells. In addition to basal cells, the NSE contains ciliated and three types of nonciliated columnar epithelial cells (dark, light, and unstained). Mitotic figures were observed only in the basal cells layer during the first 2 weeks of postnatal development. Intraepithelial invading inflammatory cells were uncommon. Scanning electron microscopy revealed unevenly distributed long cilia intermingled with microvillar processes and intervening short microvillar processes. These projecting cilia and microvilli revealed a gradual increase in their height during development toward maturity.

Expression of neuronal and non-neuronal markers in the vomeronasal organs of one-humped camel (Camelus dromedarius) and Egyptian water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) / Expresión de marcadores neuronales y no neuronales en los órganos vomeronasales del camello jorobado y el búfalo egipcio de agua

Fourteen vomeronasal organs (VNOs) of adult males one-humped camels (Camelus dromedarius) and Egyptian water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) (n=7/each) were examined immunohistochemically with neuronal markers; synaptophysin (SYP) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) to clarify the distribution of the vomeronasal (VN) receptor cells and nerve fibers, in addition to elucidate the existence of non-neuronal elements via S-100 and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). In both animals, the VNO was lined medially with VN sensory (olfactory) epithelium and non-sensory (respiratory) epithelium laterally. Immunohistochemically, both animals showed SYP immunolabeling only in the receptor cells of VN sensory epithelium while GFAP labeled the ensheathing cells of the nerve fibers of VNOs. Both S-100 and eNOS labeled non-neuronal elements of the VNO; the supporting cells of sensory epithelium and the VN glands. In view of these observations, we postulate that the VNOs of both animals contain various cells populations that express several neuronal and non-neuronal markers. As well as, SYP and GFAP are suggested as markers for receptor cells and ensheathing cells of nerves of the VNOs respectively. However, no clear differences can be detected in the expressions of neuronal and non-neuronal markers in VNOs of camel and buffalo since they are ruminant species.

En este estudio fueron examinados 14 órganos vomeronasales (OVN) de machos adultos de camellos de una joroba (Camelus dromedarius) y búfalos egipcios de agua (Bubalus bubalis) (n = 7 / cada uno) por inmunohistoquímica con marcadores neuronales, sinaptofisina (SIP) y proteína ácida fibrilar glial (PAFG), para identificar la distribución vomeronasal (VN) del receptor de células y fibras nerviosas, además de dilucidar la existencia de elementos no neuronales a través de S-100 y óxido nítrico sintasa endotelial (ONSe). En ambos animales, el OVN se encuentra alineado en sentido medial con el epitelio sensorial (olfato) y lateralmente con el epitelio no sensorial (respiratorio). En el estudio inmunohistoquímico, ambos animales mostraron marcadores inmunológicos solamente en las células receptoras del epitelio sensorial VN, mientras que la proteína ácida fibrilar glial marcaba las fibras nerviosas de OVN. Tanto el S-100 como la óxido nítrico sintasa endotelial, marcaron elementos no neuronales del OVN, las células de revestimiento del epitelio sensorial y las glándulas VN. En relación a estas observaciones, se postula que los OVN de ambos animales contienen células que expresan varios marcadores neuronales y no neuronales. SIP y la PAFG se sugieren como marcadores para células receptoras y las células gliales de nervios del OVN, respectivamente. Sin embargo, debido a que son especies de rumiantes, no existen diferencias claras que se puedan detectar en las expresiones de los marcadores neuronales y no neuronales en el OVN de camello y búfalo.

Órgano vomeronasal: estudio anatómico de prevalencia y su función / The vomeronasal organ: anatomic study of prevalence and its role

Introducción: El órgano vomeronasal (OVN) descrito por Jacobson en mamíferos distintos al ser humano, es una incógnita tanto en lo que se refiere a su localización así como a su función en la raza humana. Se considera como un vestigio del olfato, que en los animales mamíferos parece influir en los hábitos sexuales (feromonas) y sociales. Hasta la fecha han sido escasos los estudios concluyentes al respecto en humanos. Objetivo: Conocer la prevalencia del órgano vomeronasal en nuestras consultas. Material y método: Presentamos un estudio prospectivo de prevalencia de la frecuencia de aparición de dicho órgano en 150 sujetos distribuidos por edad y sexo, explorados por endoscopia nasosinusal rígida. Por otro lado, analizamos la influencia sobre la libido (normal-disminuida-aumentada) en el posoperatorio de 35 septoplastías, a los 15 días tras retirada de taponamiento nasal y a los 30 días y lo comparamos con un grupo de 40 pacientes intervenidos timpanoplastías. Resultados: Estudiados 150 sujetos, encontramos la presencia del órgano vomeronasal en el 39,33% (59), de los cuales el 72,88% (43) fue unilateral (23 derecha y 20 izquierda) y el 27,12% (16) bilateral. En 91 (60,67%) no hallamos dicha estructura. La libido de los 35 pacientes intervenidos de septoplastía estaba disminuida, a los 15 días, en el 77,14% (27) frente al 40% (16) de las timpanoplastías, normal en el 17,14% (6) frente al 50% (20) de las cirugías otológicas, y en 2 (5,7%) poseptoplastía había aumentado, frente al 10% (4) del otro grupo. A los 30 días, en el 77,14% (27) de las septoplastías se había normalizado frente al 90% (36) del grupo otológico, en 2 (5,71%) de la cirugía nasal continuaba disminuida frente al 10% (4) del grupo de las timpanoplastías y en 6 (17,14%) tras septoplastía había aumentado. A todos los pacientes se les aplicó el mismo test no normalizado. Conclusión: El órgano vomeronasal de Jacobson continúa siendo un gran desconocido. Es una estructura que, al parecer, no es constante, al menos a la exploración endoscópica nasosinusal. Es difícil valorar si la cirugía en sí misma o el trauma psicológico posquirúrgico son los que afectan la libido de los pacientes tras la cirugía.

Introduction: The vomeronasal organ (OVN) described by Jacobson in mammals other than humans is unknown both in terms of its location and its role in the human race. It is viewed as a vestige of smell, that mammals in the animal seems to influence the sexual habits (pheromone) and social. To date, few studies have been inconclusive on this in humans. Aim: To determine the prevalence of vomeronasal organ in our medical consultations. Materials and methods: We report a prospective prevalence study of the occurrence of such a body in 150 subjects distributed by age and sex explored by endoscopic sinus rigid. On the other hand, we analyze the effect on the libido (normally less-plus) in the postoperative 35 septoplasty, 15 days after the withdrawal of nasal pack and 30 days and compared with a group of 40 tympanoplasty surgery. Results: Studied 150 subjects, we found the presence of the vomeronasal organ in 39.33% (59), of which 72.88% (43) had unilateral (23 right and 20 left) and 27.12% (16) bilaterally. In 91 (60.67%) did not find such a structure. The libido of the 35 patients who underwent septoplasty was decreased at 15 days, at 77.14% (27) versus 40% (16) of tympanoplasty, normal in 17.14% (6) compared to 50% (20) of otologic surgery, and in 2 (5.7%) postseptoplasty had increased, compared to 10% (4) the other group. At 30 days, in 77.14% (27) of the septoplasty group the libido was normalized against 90% (36) in the otologic group. In 2 cases (5.71%) of nasal surgery group was still decreased versus 10% (4) of cases of the tympanoplasty group, and in 6 (17.14%) postseptoplasty was increased. All patients were administered the same test is not standardized. Conclusion: The vomeronasal organ of Jacobson remains the great unknown. It is a structure that apparently is not constant, at least in the endoscopic sinus exploration. With regard to their role, it is difficult to assess whether the psychological trauma after surgery or the surgery by itself is responsible of the libido changes.

Morphological characterization of the nasopalatine region in human fetuses and its association to pathologies

The nasopalatine region is composed of structures such as the vomeronasal organ and nasopalatine duct. The nasopalatine duct may provide the communication of the mouth to the nasal cavity in human fetuses and can be obliterated in an adult human. Knowledge on the development of the nasopalatine region and nasopalatine duct in humans is necessary for understanding the morphology and etiopathogenesis of lesions that occur in this region. Objective The aim of the present study was to describe the morphological aspects of the nasopalatine region in human fetuses and correlate these aspects with the development of pathologies in this region. Material and Methods Five human fetuses with no facial or palatine abnormalities were used for the acquisition of specimens from the nasopalatine region. After demineralization, the specimens were histologically processed. Histological cuts were stained with methylene blue to orient the cutting plane and hematoxylin-eosin for the descriptive histological analysis. Results The age of the fetuses was 8.00, 8.25, 9.00 and 9.25 weeks, and it was not possible to determine the age in the last one. The incisive canal was observed in all specimens as an opening delimited laterally by the periosteum and connecting oral and nasal cavity. The nasopalatine duct is an epithelial structure with the greatest morphological variation, with either unilateral or bilateral occurrence and total patent, partial patent and islet forms. The vomeronasal organ is a bilateral epithelized structure located alongside the nasal septum above the incisive canal in all the fetuses. Conclusions The incisive canal, nasopalatine duct and vomeronasal organ are distinct anatomic structures. The development of nasopalatine duct cysts may occur in all forms of the nasopalatine duct. .

A morphological study of vomeronasal organ of Korean black goat (Capra aegagrus hircus) / 대한수의학회지

The vomeronasal organ (VNO) plays an important role in reproduction and social activities in ruminants including goats. A morphological study on the structure of VNO and its epithelial cells was carried out in Korean black goats. Grossly, the VNO of Korean goats opens into mouth through incisive ducts. Microscopically, the epithelium of VNO consisted of medial sensory epithelium and lateral non-sensory epithelium. Several blood vessels and nerve bundles were observed in the lamina propria encased by vomeronasal cartilage. Immunohistochemical staining showed that protein gene product (PGP) 9.5 was immunostained in the receptor cells of the sensory epithelium and in some cells of the non-sensory epithelium. Galectin-3 was mainly observed in the supporting cells of sensory and non-sensory epithelium. Lectins including wheat germ agglutinin, Ulex europaeus agglutinin, Bandeiraea simplicifolia lectin Isolectin B4, Dolichos biflorus agglutinin and soybean agglutinin used in this study were bound in VNO sensory, non-sensory epithelia as well as in the lamina propria with varying intensity. Collectively, this is a first descriptive morphological study of VNO of Korean black goat with special reference to lectin histochemistry.

Histochemical study of lectin-binding patterns in the rat vomeronasal organ during postnatal development / 대한수의학회지

Histochemical patterns of lectin binding during development of the rat vomeronasal organ (VNO) were studied to determine whether glycoconjugates are differently expressed after birth. Three types of lectins, Dolichos biflorus agglutinin (DBA), wheat germ agglutinin (WGA), and Ulex europaeus agglutinin I (UEA-I), were studied histochemically in the rat VNO at various stages post-birth: postnatal days 1 and 7, the preweaning period (4 weeks after birth), and at sexual maturity (8 weeks after birth). The free border of the vomeronasal sensory epithelium was positive for both WGA and UEA-I in rats of all ages; whereas, VNO receptor cells and supporting cells were positive only for both WGA and UEA-I from 4 weeks after birth. DBA reactivity was detected in the free border but less so in receptor cells and supporting cells. WGA and UEA-I, but not DBA, showed similar patterns in various ages. In the Jacobson's gland, WGA, UEA-I and DBA were detected in some acini from 4 weeks after birth but not at postnatal days 1 or 7. Collectively, reactivity for three lectins, WGA, UEA-I and DBA, increased in receptor cells and gland acini during postnatal development, possibly contributing to the enhanced chemoreception in rats.

Postnatal development of the female rabbit vomerosensory epithelium: a light and electron microscopic study

The vomeronasal organ [VNO] is an essential organ with regard to its recognition as a receptor of nonvolatile substances known as pheromones and its link with mammalian reproduction. The postnatal development of the vomerosensory epithelium of the VNO of female white rabbits has been investigated in this study. Four age groups [newborn, 1 week, 2 weeks, and 1 month] were studied using light and electron microscopic techniques. Three basic cell types have been distinguished in the rabbit vomerosensory epithelium: supporting cells, sensory neuronal cells, and basal cells. The supporting cells showed signs of maturation as enlargement and branching of the microvilli and difficulty of identification of centrioles in the apical parts of the cells. The sensory cells showed different stages of maturity; some changes have been found in the morphology and development of the cell organelles. There was decrease in the number of ribosomes and increase in the number of arborizations of their microvilli. The basal cells were present more at birth and decreased as the rabbits grew. There was maturation of the histological structure of the sensory epithelium of the VNO of female rabbits, which indicated the presence of great signs of functional activity at birth that continued during the first month of age to acquire mature functional capability

The Odorant Signaling Pathway

Through the sense of smell mammals can obtain information about food, danger, sexual partners and predators. Two main different types of signals can be recognized by the olfactory system: volatile odorants, which are detected by the olfactory sensory neurons of the nose; and pheromones, which are detected by the vomeronasal neurons of the accessory olfactory system, or vomeronasal organ. These sensory neurons express respectively hundreds of odorant and pheromone receptors, which belong to the superfamily of G protein-coupled receptors. We review the general organization of the main and accessory olfactory systems, the structures of the receptor families in each of these organs and their signaling pathways.

Análise das regiões promotoras dos genes de receptores olfatórios e de receptores de feromônios do tipo 1 / Analysis of promoter regions of the olfactory and type 1 vomeronasal receptor genes

No genoma de camundongo existem por volta de 1000 genes que codificam para receptores olfatórios (ORs) e 150 genes que codificam para receptores de feromônios do tipo 1 (V1Rs) distribuídos em vários cromossomos. Cada neurônio olfatório e vomeronasal seleciona um único alelo de um único gene de receptor OR ou de V1R, respectivamente, para expressar enquanto que o restante do repertório é mantido silenciado. Os mecanismos que regulam esse padrão de expressão não são conhecidos. As similaridades no padrão de expressão dos genes de ORs e de V1Rs sugerem que o mecanismo de regulação possa ser comum. Até então poucas regiões promotoras de genes de ORs e de genes de V1Rs haviam sido experimentalmente determinadas e pesquisadas. Realizamos uma análise na qual regiões a montante de um grande número de diferentes genes de ORs e de genes de V1Rs foram comparadas...

El órgano vomeronasal humano: [revisión] / Human vomeronasal organ: [revision]

El órgano vomeronasal (OVN) es una estructura que estudiamos alguna vez en anatomía, sin embargo su ubicación, frecuencia y función específica en humanos ha sido poco estudiada. Por este motivo se realizó una revisión bibliográfica actualizada acerca del OVN humano, enfatizando en puntos importantes como su anatomía y relación con algunas conductas. Hoy en día es considerado como un órgano olfatorio accesorio, capaz de percibir la presencia de vomeroferinas. Estas corresponden a un grupo de sustancias químicas identificadas, capaces de provocar cambios conductuales tanto a nivel social, sexual como maternal. Se localiza lateralmente al septo nasal y posee células periféricas, capaces de actuar como receptores, los cuales al ser estimuladas son capaces de generar una respuesta, susceptible de ser medida a través de un electrodo ubicado en el epitelio vomeronasal. Los últimos estudios sugieren que además tendría una conexión directa hacia el sistema nervioso central, mediante neuronas sensoriales bipolares, lo que implica un cuidado adicional en pacientes sometidos a cirugías cercanas a su ubicación.

The human vomeronasal organ (OVN) is a structure that is once studied in Anatomy, but commonly Iittie is known about its location, frequency and specific function. For this reason recent literature on the subject was reviewed, emphasizing important topics such as its anatomy and relation to some behaviors. The vomeronasal organ is nowadays considered an accessory olfactory organ, capable of detecting the presence of vomeropherins. These belong to a group of identified chemical substances, capable of induce behavioral changes at the social, sexual and maternal level. It is located lateral to the nasal septum, and it contains peripheral cells that act as receptors, which upon stimulation are capable of triggering a response that can be recorded via an electrode located in the vomeronasal epithelium. In addition, recent studies suggest that the vomeronasal organ has a direct connection to the central nervous system, by way of bipolar sensory neurons, which would demand additional care in patients having surgery in its vicinity.

Study on the morphology and frequency of the vomeronasal organ in humans / Estudio sobre la morfología y la frecuencia del órgano vomeronasal en los seres humanos

The vomeronasal organ was first described in humans in the seventeenth century. It has a chemosensory function and is found in the mucosa of the nasal septum of mammals and consists of an opening in the mucosa at the base of the nasal septum. For this study, 143 individuals undergoing nasofibrolaryngoscopy were studied, and presence of the vomeronasal organ was considered to be a finding from the examination. Three morphological types of vomeronasal organ were observed: fissure, fossette and circular. The total prevalence of the vomeronasal organ among these patients was 28 percent (40 individuals ). The prevalence of the vomeronasal organ in this study population is compatible with what has been reported in other studies. The forms of the vomeronasal organ can be characterized: fissure, fossette and circular. The fossette type is commonest in males and the fissure among females.

El órgano vomeronasal se describió por primera vez en seres humanos en el siglo XVII. Tiene una función quimiosensorial y se encuentra en la mucosa del tabique nasal de los mamíferos, y consta de una abertura en la mucosa en la base del tabique nasal. Para este estudio, 143 individuos fueron estudiados mediante nasofibrolaringoscopía, y la presencia del órgano vomeronasal se consideró un hallazgo del examen. Tres tipos morfológicos de órgano vomeronasal se observaron: fisura, foseta y circular, siendo el tipo foseta es más común en los hombres y las fisuras entre las mujeres. La prevalencia total del órgano vomeronasal entre estos pacientes fue de 28 por ciento (40 pacientes). La prevalencia del órgano vomeronasal de la población en estudio es compatible con lo que ha sido reportado en otros estudios.

Biología feromonal en la especie humana / Pheromone biology and human behaviour

Las funciones de quimiosensitividad y quimiosensorialidad de la nariz humana han sido siempre despreciadas, pero el incremento de evidencias a partir de investigaciones en otras especies animales sugiere que la olfación puede servir para otros propósitos muy importantes. En mamíferos está mediada por distintos órganos localizados en la cavidad nasal, como el epitelio olfatorio que une moléculas volátiles, responsable de la percepción consciente de olores y el órgano vomeronasal (OVN) que une feromonas y origina varias respuestas sobre todo entre individuos de una misma especie. Moléculas olorosas y feromonas se unen a receptores que permiten la señal de transducción, que son codificados por grandes familias multigénicas. Esta revisión presenta la información reciente y actualizada acerca de la temática de feromonas humanas.

Aging of the olfactory system of male rats a histological and ultrastructural study I-olfactory and vomerosensory epithelia

In the present study, age-related histological, histochemical, and ultrastructural changes in both the olfactory epithelium [OE] and the vomeronasal organ [VNO] have been investigated. A total number of 30 albino rats were used in this study Animals were divided equally into two groups; [adult group] and [aged group]. The OE of the aged animals was reduced in thickness, with a relative disturbance in the zonal arrangement of its layers and invaded by acini of Bowman's glands. A basal nuclear-free zone and apical pale cells were also observed within the aged OE. Both mitotic figures and apoptotic bodies were seen in the aged OE. Periodic acid schief-Alcian blue [PAS-AB,] reaction revealed an increase in the PAS-reaction both in the apical and basal parts of the aged OE. Alkaline phosphatase reaction showed a marked reduction in the enzyme activity within the basal cell layer with the appearance of scattered positive cells with the aged OE. On the other hand an increase in the enzyme activity of Bowman 'S glands was observed. The most frequent ultrastructural finding within the aged OE was the accumulation of dense inclusion bodies within the mature ORNs. Less frequently filamentous inclusions were also detected. SEM investigation revealed reduction in the olfactory area and shortening in the olfactory cilia. In aged animals the vomerosensory cells showed vacuolated cytoplasm. Intraepithelial blood capillaries appeared irregular. Histochemically, the PAS-reaction was increased in the apical processes of the supporting cells and reduced in the VS cells whereas alkaline phosphatase along the apical surface was not affected. Ultrastructurally, vomerosensory cells exhibited dilatation of most organelles mainly sER and Golgi bodies, numerous clear vesicles of variable sizes, multiple electron-dense inclusions and lipofuscin granules. VNO are more vulnerable to the aging process than the OE. Sensory cells in particular are more affected than other cell types