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Abstract
The mechanism underlying spontaneous pacemaker potential
in the uterus is not clearly understood. Several
spontaneously active smooth muscles have interstitial
cells of Cajal, (ICCs) or ICC-like cells. We therefore
examined cells from freshly dispersed uterine muscle
strips (from pregnant human and rat myometrium) and in
situ uterine preparations to determine the cell types
present. Both preparations revealed numerous ICC-like
cells; they were multipolar, with spider-like projections
and enlarged central regions. These cells were readily
distinguished from uterine myocytes by their morphology,
and ultrastructure, i.e. no myofilaments, numerous
mitochondria, caveolae and filaments. In addition, the
ICC-like cells were non-contractile. These cells were
negative to c-kit, a classic marker for ICCs. They
stained positive for the intermediate filament, vimentin,
a marker for cells of mesenchymal origin but not
differentiated myocytes. The ICC-like cells had a more or
less stable resting membrane potential of -58 ± 7 mV
compared to smooth muscle cells -65 ± 13 mV and produced
outward current in response to voltage clamp pulses.
However, in contrast to uterine myocytes, inward currents
were not observed. This is the first description of
ICC-like cells in myometrium and their role in the uterus
is discussed, as possible inhibitors of intrinsic smooth
muscle activity.
Key words:
Pregnancy •
Calcium •
Interstitial cells •
Parturition •
Uterus
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