A new cellular type in invertebrates: first evidence of telocytes in leech Hirudo medicinalis
Research article published in Scientific reports (2017)
Abstract
Telocytes, a peculiar cell type, were recently found in vertebrates. Hence this cell system has been reported as ubiquitous in the bodies of mammals and interpreted as an important player in innate immunity and tissue regeneration, it is reasonable to look for it also in invertebrates, that rely their integrity solely by innate immunity. Here we describe, at morphological and functional level, invertebrate telocytes from the body of leech Hirudo medicinalis (Annelida), suggesting how these cells, forming a resident stromal 3D network, can influence or participate in different events. These findings support the concepts that leech telocytes: i) are organized in a cellular dynamic and versatile 3D network likewise the vertebrate counterpart; ii) are an evolutionarily conserved immune-neuroendocrine system; iii) form an immuno-surveillance system of resident cells responding faster than migrating immunocytes recruited in stimulated area; iv) communicate with neighbouring cells directly and indirectly, via cell-cell contacts and soluble molecules secreted by multivesicular bodies; v) present within neo-vessels, share with immunocytes the mesodermal lineage; vi) are involved in regenerative processes. In conclusion, we propose that HmTCs, integrating so different functions, might explain the innate immune memory and can be associated with several aged related diseases.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Resumen
Telocytes, a peculiar cell type, were recently found in vertebrates. Hence this cell system has been reported as ubiquitous in the bodies of mammals and interpreted as an important player in innate immunity and tissue regeneration, it is reasonable to look for it also in invertebrates, that rely their integrity solely by innate immunity.
Por qué esto importa para la hirudoterapia
Este estudio describe los telocitos —un tipo celular descubierto recientemente en vertebrados— en la sanguijuela medicinal Hirudo medicinalis, caracterizándolos tanto a nivel morfológico como funcional y proponiendo que estas células forman una red estromal tridimensional residente involucrada en la inmunidad innata, la comunicación intercelular mediante cuerpos multivesiculares y la regeneración tisular. Este trabajo es relevante para el ámbito de la ASH porque identifica un sistema celular inmuno-neuroendocrino novedoso en la propia sanguijuela medicinal, ofreciendo una perspectiva conceptual sobre la vigilancia inmunológica innata y la biología regenerativa de la sanguijuela. Sin embargo, el estudio no involucra la hirudoterapia, el secretoma salival ni ninguna aplicación clínica, y su relevancia para la aplicación terapéutica de sanguijuelas es indirecta. Los roles funcionales atribuidos a los telocitos de la sanguijuela son interpretaciones propuestas derivadas del trabajo de caracterización más que resultados terapéuticos o mecanísticos demostrados de manera independiente.
Citación
A new cellular type in invertebrates: first evidence of telocytes in leech Hirudo medicinalis.
Pulze L et al. · Scientific reports, 2017
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Añadido a la biblioteca ASH: March 18, 2026 · Última actualización del sitio: June 18, 2026