Abstract
Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the maturation of pulmonary epithelial cells in human fetal lungs at 21 weeks' gestation. Methods: Eight fetuses at 21 weeks' gestation were evaluated. The maturation of pulmonary epithelial cells was assessed by immunohistochemical examination for surfactant proteins and by electron microscopy. Results: Surfactant protein B mature peptide was detected slightly in the epithelial lining of the bronchioles, but was totally absent in the terminal airways. Surfactant protein B proprotein was clearly detected in the epithelial lining of both bronchioles and terminal airways. Transmission electron microscopy of terminal airway cells showed abundant glycogen granules and few intracellular organelles. Conclusions: The production of mature surfactant protein B in terminal airways is scarce at 21 weeks' gestation, which is associated with the immature mechanism of proprotein processing in the cytoplasm.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 500-504 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Pediatrics International |
Volume | 44 |
Issue number | 5 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2002 |
Keywords
- Human fetus
- Lung maturation
- Pulmonary epithelial cells
- Surfactant protein
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health