Immunohistochemical localization of prolyl hydroxylase in rat tissues.

Abstract

A specific antibody directed against prolyl hydroxylase prepared from newborn rat skins was produced in the rabbit. Using a peroxidase-labeled antibody method, localization of prolyl hydroxylase was investigated in cultured fibroblasts and various rat tissues (skin, aorta, heart, kidney, spleen, liver, pancreas, lung, trachea and uterus). Cultured fibroblasts yielded marked immunostaining for prolyl hydroxylase. In the tissues, prolyl hydroxylase was mainly localized in interstitial connective tissue and blood vessels including capillaries. Fibroblasts, vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells were stained intensely. Subcutaneous adipose cells, uterine smooth muscle cells, tracheal chondrocytes and splenic reticulum cells showed positive staining. Epithelial cells such as epidermal cells, alveolar epithelium and liver parenchymal cells demonstrated the specific staining with moderate to low intensity. Fibroblasts and a variety of nonfibroblastic cells including epithelial cells apparently have a capacity to produce collagen fibers in the tissue.