Telocytes: a brief review for the obstetrics/gynecology clinician

Abstract

Telocytes: a brief review for the obstetrics/gynecology clinician V. Kraus Jr.1, L. Kraus1, A. Birková2, B. Veliká2, B. Hubková2, A. Grešová3, M. Stupák2, M. Mareková2 1Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Louis Pasteur University Hospital, Košice 2Department of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University, Košice 3Department of Gynaecology, East Slovakia Oncology Institute, Košice (Slovakia) Summary Telocytes (TCs) are unique interstitial cells with a wide array of intercellular communication tools. They appear to be an integral part of interstitium of different organs, including the female genital organs. Immunohistochemistry of these cells shows that organ-specific phenotypes exist, and electronic microscopy proved occurrence of morphologically different types of TCs within one organ expecting variety functions. Ongoing research is starting to uncover possible roles of TCs in these organs like mechanical support of tissues, regulation of morphogenesis, regeneration of tissues, and maintaining of homeostasis through impact on neural, vascular and endocrine processes. Disturbation in their number or function leads to disruption of hormonal control and is related to cancer progression. This review offers an overview of available data as well as popular theories. Key words: Telocytes; Communication; Homeostasis; Reproductive tract.