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Ultrastructure and immunolocalisation of a myofibroblast cell population within the rat mitral valve
Author(s) -
Keane Aisling,
Edgar Kevin,
Gardiner Tom
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.23.1_supplement.645.2
Subject(s) - desmin , myofibroblast , vimentin , pathology , microbiology and biotechnology , actin , ultrastructure , immunohistochemistry , myocyte , interstitial cell , population , mitral valve , biology , anatomy , chemistry , medicine , environmental health , fibrosis
The aim of this study was to investigate the myofibroblast‐like characteristics of valvular interstitial cells (VICs) in the rat mitral valve and explain the potential significance of this finding. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was carried out for the presence of á‐ smooth muscle actin (á‐SMA), filamentous actin (F‐actin), desmin, vimentin and integrin linked kinase (ILK). The results showed that immunolocalisation of desmin and ILK in elongated VICs is similar to that of smooth muscle cells. IHC results also show the presence of desmin, which further indicates a myofibroblast phenotype. Electron microscopy results show evidence of communication between the nervous component of the valve and VICs. This last result in combination with the novel finding of ILK in VICs suggests that these cells may have a mechanosensory function in the valve. Overall the results presented show the valve itself may be more dynamic than previously believed and that VICs may play an active role in valvular mechanics.