Network of telocytes in the temporomandibular joint disc of rats.
The phenotypes of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc cells range from fibroblasts to chondrocytes. There are relatively few reported studies using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to determine the ultrastructural features of these cells. It was hypothesized that at least a subpopulation of TMJ stromal cells could be represented by the telocytes, cells with telopodes. In this regard a TEM study was performed on rat TMJ samples. Collagen-embedded networks were found built-up by cells with telopodes with subplasmalemmal caveolae, moderate content in matrix secretory organelles and well-represented intermediate filaments. Appositions of cell bodies were found. Prolongations of such cells were closely related to nerves and microvessels. Our study indicates that the TMJ disc attachment seems equipped with telocytes capable of stromal signaling. However, further studies are needed to assess whether the telocytes belong to a renewed cell population derived from circulating precursors.
Division of Anatomy, Faculty of Dental Medicine, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania; MEDCENTER - Center of Excellence in Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Bucharest, Romania. Electronic address: anatomon@gmail.com.
Mugurel Constantin
MC
Rusu
Anatomy Section, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
Carla
C
Loreto
Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, National Institute of Research and Development for Biological Sciences, Bucharest, Romania.
Vasile Sorin
VS
Mănoiu
D000818:Animals; D019902:Chondrocytes / Q000648:ultrastructure; D003238:Connective Tissue / Q000648:ultrastructure; D005347:Fibroblasts / Q000648:ultrastructure; D056885:Interstitial Cells of Cajal / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D008297:Male; D046529:Microscopy, Electron, Transmission; D017208:Rats, Wistar; D017154:Stromal Cells / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D019224:Temporomandibular Joint Disc / Q000648:ultrastructure*
CD34; Fibroblasts; Interstitial Cajal cells; Stromal signaling; Temporomandibular joint; Transmission electron microscopy