Distribution of cysteinyl leukotriene receptor 2 in human traumatic brain injury and brain tumors

Aim: To determine the distribution of cysteinyl leukotriene receptor 2 (CysLT(2)), one of the cysteinyl leukotriene receptors, in human brains with traumatic injury and tumors. Methods: Brain specimens were obtained from patients who underwent brain surgery. CysLT(2) in brain tissues was examined using immunohistochemical analysis. Results: CysLT(2) was expressed in the smooth muscle cells (not in the endothelial cells) of arteries and veins. CysLT(2) was also expressed in the granulocytes in both vessels and in the brain parenchyma. In addition, CysLT(2) was detected in neuron- and glial-appearing cells in either the late stages of traumatic injury or in the area surrounding the tumors. Microvessels regenerated 8 d after trauma and CysLT(2) expression was recorded in their endothelial cells. Conclusion: CysLT(2) is distributed in vascular smooth muscle cells and granulocytes, and brain trauma and tumor can induce its expression in vascular endothelial cells and in a number of other cells.