Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Methods

Results

Discussion & Conclusion

References

Discussion
Board

Inhomogenous reports in the literature prompted us to re-investigate immunocytochemicaly the occurrence of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the rat brain and spinal cord using specific antibodies for the manganese (Mn-SOD) and copper/zinc (Cu/Zn-SOD) containing isoform in combination with cell type specific markers. CNS tissue sections were analyzed by confocal laser scanning microscopy and digital photo imaging. Cu/Zn-SOD immunoreactivity was found to be located predominantly in astrocytes throughout the CNS. At a lower level the enzyme was also detectable in neuronal perikarya and in structures of the neuropil. Motoneurons of the spinal cord displayed an enhanced Cu/Zn-SOD staining intensity, when compared to brain neurons. In contrast, the Mn-containing isoform was predominantly localized to neuronal perikarya and their processes throughout the brain and the spinal cord. Confirming the mitochondrial localization of the enzyme, a granular staining pattern sparing the nucleus was observed. Mn-SOD stained mitochondria were also detectable in astroglial cells but the staining intensity was, on the whole, much lower compared to neurons, and often hardly detectable. Variations in the basic fortification with SOD-isoforms may contribute to different cellular susceptibilities in neurodegenerative processes which are accompanied by oxidative stress.

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Presentation Number SAlindenau0235
Keywords: Mn-SOD, Cu/Zn-SOD, Neuron, Astroglia, Immunolabeling