Immunohistochemical localization of basic fibroblast growth factor in the normal adult gastrointestinal tract

Objective The list of growth factors with possible healing properties for gastric lesions is increasing. In particular, the powerful angiogenic and mitogenic effects of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFCF) may have a therapeutic application in peptic ulcer disease. However, very little is known about the distribution of bFGF in the normal adult gastrointestinal tract. Design Investigation of the distribution of bFGF reactivity in the adult gastrointestinal tract using immunohistochemistry. Method Biopsy specimens were taken from normal oesophagus, stomach, duodenum and colon. Cryostat serial sections were immunostained with a specific antibody against bFGF. Results The epithelial basement membranes under the superficial epithelial cells in the oesophagus, stomach, duodenum and colon were discontinuously labelled. Staining of the lamina propria tissue and small blood vessels was noted. The muscularis mucosae was heavily stained with antibodies to bFGF. The superficial epithelium of the stomach, duodenum, colon and suprabasal squamous epithelium of the oesophagus showed strong immunoreactivity. Conclusion There is a specific distribution of bFGF in surface epithelial cells, basal membranes and the lamina propria of the gastrointestinal tract. Activation of bFGF from the above-mentioned structures may be needed for rapid mobilization of angiogenic factors during repair processes.