A Study of the Glycoconjugates Distribution of Umbilical Cord; a Lectin Histochemical Study

Umbilical cord can be considered as a source of stem cells with a wide differentiates capacity. It also supplies the embryos with blood contains oxygen and vital nutritional elements and may change by some abnormalities during embryo development. The study of different aspects of umbilical cord biology is critical for understanding of pathology and the way of its application in a stem cell therapy protocol. The objective of this study was to find the glycoconjugates distribution pattern in various regions of the umbilical cord. To do this, umbilical cords from normal pregnancy were fixed, sectioned and stained with WGA, PNA, Concanavalin A, PHy, DBA, SBA and UEA lectins. The lectins were FITC-conjugated. The slides were counterstained with DAPI and observed by fluorescence microscopy. The data showed amnioblasts were reacted with BSA, ConA, UEA, DBA and WGA and endothelial cells with BSA and UEA. Smooth muscle also took up BSA, UEA and WGA. Mesenchymal cells at the interarterial zone were stained with BSA, ConA and UEA. In conclusion, the staining pattern with lectins was different in various zones of umbilical cord. Any modification of this glycoconjugates distribution may be exerted effects on the proper umbilical cord function or structure.