Abstract
To investigate the molecular mechanism of glandular parenchyma destruction in Sjogren's syndrome (SS), Bcl-2, Bax, Bcl-X, and Bak expression were studied. SS (n = 18) and control salivary glands (n = 6)were examined by immunohistochemistry. Apoptosis was assessed by in situ DNA nick end labeling. Infiltrating mononuclear cells in the SS salivary gland showed elevated Bcl-2. These mononuclear cells expressed increased Bax but did not undergo apoptosis. Both SS and control salivary gland ductal epithelial cells expressed Bcl-2, Bax, and Bcl-X. SS, but not normal, salivary gland acinar cells expressed Bax and underwent apoptosis. These results suggest that elevated Bax expression in SS salivary gland acinar cells may play an important role in the apoptotic pathway. In contrast, Bcl-2 expression in SS infiltrating mononuclear cells and ductal cells may contribute to their survival.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 133-141 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Clinical Immunology and Immunopathology |
Volume | 88 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Aug 1998 |
Keywords
- Apoptosis
- Bcl-2
- Salivary glands
- Sjogren's syndrome
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Immunology and Allergy
- Pathology and Forensic Medicine
- Immunology