Subcellular localization of epidermal growth factor in human submandibular gland.
Epidermal growth factor in human submandibular gland was localized at the subcellular level by means of an immunogold staining method. Labelling was observed in serous acini and ducts. In the acini, gold particles were found within secretory granules, indicating that the growth factor is released into the saliva through granule exocytosis. In the ductal system, the most intense reactivity was revealed in the principal cells of striated ducts. In these cells, an abundant population of small cytoplasmic vesicles was specifically stained. Immunoreactive vesicles were found both apically and basally, suggesting that ductal cells can release their products not only into the saliva but also into the interstitium.
Dipartimento di Citomorfologia, Università di Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, Monserrato (CA), Italy.
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Cossu
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Perra
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Piludu
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Lantini
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D004815:Epidermal Growth Factor / Q000032:analysis*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013194:Staining and Labeling / Q000379:methods; D013347:Subcellular Fractions / Q000737:chemistry; D013363:Submandibular Gland / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000473:pathology
D004815:Epidermal Growth Factor