Abstract
Background: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is frequently linked with a pulmonary involvement. SSc-associated pulmonary disorders are characterized by a considerable negative impact on survival and life quality of patients.
Aim: To establish structural changes in the morphology of blood-air barrier due to experimentally induced SSc.
Methods: The experimental reproduction of SSc was provided using animal model. 30 Wistar rats (220-240g) were involved into our study. They underwent subcutaneous administration of 0.5ml of 5% sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) solution three times a week for 6 weeks in a row. There were 15 rats in a control group. After 8 weeks all animals were euthanized, and lung tissue sections were obtained on an ultramicrotome (Tesla BS-490). Magnification x9600 was performed with the help of high-resolution microscope (PEM-125K).
Results: Ultrastructural analysis revealed that the nuclei of many type I pneumocytes were with a matrix of low electron-optical density and marginal aggregation of chromatin granules. The nuclear membrane had wavy contours and forms superficial invagination. Mitochondria were enlarged with single reduced cristae. In some cells destruction of cristae was observed. Along with the expanded cisternae of Golgi apparatus the fragmentation of membranes of rough endoplasmic reticulum was defined. The basement membrane was thickened and with fuzzy contours. In the peripheral parts of single cells there were local ruptures of the apical plasmolemma, which lead to the release of intracellular contents into the lumen of the alveoli.
Conclusions: It was shown that SSc is accompanied by severe violations of the ultrastructural organization of type I pneumocytes.
Footnotes
Cite this article as: European Respiratory Journal 2021; 58: Suppl. 65, PA3607.
This abstract was presented at the 2021 ERS International Congress, in session “Prediction of exacerbations in patients with COPD”.
This is an ERS International Congress abstract. No full-text version is available. Further material to accompany this abstract may be available at www.ers-education.org (ERS member access only).
- Copyright ©the authors 2021