1. CuZn-superoxide dismutase in human thymus: immunocytochemical localisation and secretion in thymus-derived epithelial and fibroblast cell lines.
- Author
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Cimini V, Ruggiero G, Buonomo T, Seru R, Sciorio S, Zanzi C, Santangelo F, and Mondola P
- Subjects
- Aged, Biomarkers analysis, Cell Line, Child, Child, Preschool, Epithelial Cells enzymology, Epithelial Cells metabolism, Fibroblasts enzymology, Fibroblasts metabolism, Humans, Immunohistochemistry, Keratins analysis, Kinetics, Oxidative Stress, Superoxide Dismutase metabolism, Thymus Gland cytology, Thymus Gland metabolism, Superoxide Dismutase analysis, Thymus Gland enzymology
- Abstract
CuZn-superoxide dismutase (SOD) plays a key role in mediating the cellular response to oxidative stress. Its expression in normal thymus was investigated by immunohistochemical techniques and CD3-, CD68- and cytokeratin-specific staining, in order to identify thymocytes, macrophages and epithelial components. Immunocytochemical studies showed an overall CuZn-SOD thymic distribution with a prevailing concentration within thymic medulla. The analysis of CuZn-SOD release by thymus-derived epithelial and fibroblast cell lines showed the ability of both cell lines to release the anti-oxidant enzyme, especially in the presence of stress conditions as represented by serum and nutrient deprivation. These data suggest that CuZn-SOD could be a relevant antioxidant paracrine molecule in human thymus.
- Published
- 2002
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