Colostral T lymphocytes detected by intracytoplasmic and membrane markers.
Colostral lymphocytes were studied using two established T-cell markers: intracytoplasmic alpha-naphtyl-acetate esterase (ANAE) staining and membrane receptors for sheep erythrocytes (E rosettes). ANAE staining allowed counting and identification of T-cell subsets independently of the status of membrane structures and receptors frequently altered in colostral cells. The fact that a sizeable number of colostral lymphocytes had the same phenotype as the majority of mature circulating peripheral blood lymphocytes supports the hypothesis that colostral lymphocytes may play a role in protecting neonates against infections, in transferring immune information to the newborn, or in modulating the immune response via release of soluble factors. A considerable percentage of colostral T lymphocytes are ANAE-negative. This phenotype is similar to that observed among thymocytes.
D002265:Carboxylic Ester Hydrolases; D002469:Cell Separation; D002499:Centrifugation, Density Gradient; D003126:Colostrum / Q000166:cytology*; D003593:Cytoplasm / Q000201:enzymology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009283:Naphthol AS D Esterase; D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / Q000032:analysis; D012397:Rosette Formation; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000166:cytology*
D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell; D009283:Naphthol AS D Esterase; D002265:Carboxylic Ester Hydrolases