Conjunctival M cells selectively bind and translocate Maackia amurensis leukoagglutinin

摘要: Antigen-sampling M cells are found in the follicle-associated epithelium above organized lymphoid tissue many mucosae. They play a key role initiating mucosal immune response and act as site of entry for opportunistic pathogens. This study investigates presence Guinea pig conjunctiva. Maackia amurensis leukoagglutinin I II (MAL-I MAL-II) were identified potential conjunctival cell markers based on screening 12 lectins 5 carbohydrate epitope antibodies aldehyde-fixed follicles. Biotinylated or fluorescein-conjugated MAL-I was then instilled into sacs vivo 15-60 min. Specimens assessed by epi-fluorescence stereomicroscopy, confocal scanning laser microscopy transmission electron (TEM SEM). Selective labelling subset epithelial overlying follicles observed following exposure to MAL-I. restricted with sparse, irregular microvilli. Cells preferentially labelled internalize lectin during 60 min exposure. transcytosed basolateral membranes filled intracellular vesicles 45 incubation. demonstrates that conjunctiva contains morphological functional characteristics antigen-sampling cells.