Dynamics of Merkel cell patterns in developing hair follicles in the dorsal skin of mice, demonstrated by a monoclonal antibody to mouse keratin 8
Abstract
In order to explore the origin and significance of Merkel cells in the hairy skin of mammals, the development of Merkel cells and nerve endings in the dorsolateral skin of C57BL mouse embryos was studied in serial cryostat sections. At 13 and 14 days of gestation, application of a monoclonal antibody to mouse keratin 8 (mK8) resulted in specific immunofluorescence of all cells in the epidermis and periderm. The periderm retained specific staining until it was shed, around 18 days. At 15 days, mK8-specific staining elsewhere was restricted to scattered immature Merkel cells in the developing tylotrich follicles and the adjacent epidermis. Between 16 and 17 days, these cells assembled within the basal epidermal layer, caudal to each tylotrich follicle, to form a disc-shaped rudiment of a 'haarscheibe' or touch dome. No Merkel cells were found in association with the later developing awl and zigzag follicles. In mice homozygous or hemizygous for the Tabby mutation, in which tylotrich follicles never form, no Merkel cells were found in any part of the dorsolateral skin. In mice homozygous for the recessive downy mutation, in which all three types of hair are present but reduced in size, Merkel cell development was the same as in wi...Continue Reading
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