Padronização da técnica de imuno-histoquímica e investigação de componentes desencadeadores da contratura articular em ovinos

Abstract

Joint contractures are a severe complication of joint injuries that can permanently limit the extremity function. Current treatments for contractures in humans have little effect and there is an obvious need for clarification of the pathophysiology of this chronic and disabling dysfunction. Sheep joint is a promising model for the investigation of normal and pathologic states by the similarity with the biomechanics of certain human joints. The aim of this study was to investigate by the techniques of immunohistochemistry and cytochemistry the presence of key components for the development of joint contractures in sheep and to evaluate the potential of this species as an experimental model to study this disease. Therefore, we used 15 knee joint capsules of healthy Santa Inês ewes to identify myofibroblasts and mast cells. For investigation of myofibroblasts was performed immunohistochemical technique. Following histologic routine preparation, the antigen retrieval was performed by heating in citrate, followed by peroxidases blockage, blocking nonspecific protein and then primary antibody was incubated. After the secondary antibody was added to the cuts, and DAB chromogen was added. Slides were counterstained with Harris Hematoxylin and mounted. In cytochemical technique was applied the stain Toluidine Blue to disclosure mast cells. Analysis of the cuts was made under a light microscope. Positive controls of myofibroblasts (ovine cervix) and mast cells (umbilical cord) were stained satisfactorily by the standard techniques. In joint capsules, α-SMA protein was observed in the wall of arteries and rare myofibroblasts were observed in each section, as well as few mast cells were scored. Other studies about ovine joint capsule injuries must be conducted to confirm the presence of myofibroblasts and the development of joint contracture.