Immunohistochemical characterization of capsular cells in neuromuscular spindles of the neck.
BACKGROUND
To identify capsular components of neuromuscular spindles in man by means of immunohistochemistry.


METHODS
Investigation of histologically observed neuromuscular spindles in surgical specimens with the use of markers for sheath cells and basement membranes.


RESULTS
Epithelial membrane antigen and CD34 immunoreactivities were found in the outer and inner capsular layers, respectively. S-100 protein was not expressed in the capsules and there was more collagen type IV than laminin.


CONCLUSIONS
Cells resembling perineurial cells and endoneurial fibroblasts, and basement membrane rich in collagen type IV comprise the capsules of neuromuscular spindles.
Triantafyllou
Asterios
A
Oral Pathology, Department & School of Dental Studies, The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK. a.triantafyllou@liverpool.ac.uk
D000368:Aged; D018952:Antigens, CD34 / Q000032:analysis; D001485:Basement Membrane / Q000166:cytology; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000032:analysis; D002648:Child; D024141:Collagen Type IV / Q000032:analysis; D005260:Female; D005347:Fibroblasts / Q000166:cytology; D006801:Humans; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D007797:Laminin / Q000032:analysis; D008297:Male; D018396:Mucin-1 / Q000032:analysis; D009470:Muscle Spindles / Q000166:cytology*; D009334:Neck Muscles / Q000294:innervation*; D009441:Neurilemma / Q000648:ultrastructure; D009418:S100 Proteins / Q000032:analysis
D018952:Antigens, CD34; D015415:Biomarkers; D024141:Collagen Type IV; D007797:Laminin; D018396:Mucin-1; D009418:S100 Proteins