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Review
. 2015;39(5):299-305.
doi: 10.3109/01913123.2015.1054015. Epub 2015 Jul 27.

Microplicae--Specialized Surface Structure of Epithelial Cells of Wet-Surfaced Oral Mucosa

P Asikainen  1 , E Sirviö  2 , J J W Mikkonen  2   3 , S P Singh  2   3 , E A J M Schulten  4 , C M ten Bruggenkate  4 , A P Koistinen  3 , A M Kullaa  2   5   6
Affiliations
Review

Microplicae--Specialized Surface Structure of Epithelial Cells of Wet-Surfaced Oral Mucosa

P Asikainen et al. Ultrastruct Pathol. 2015.

Abstract

The surface structure of the superficial cells of the oral mucosa is decorated with numerous membrane ridges, termed microplicae (MPLs). The MPL structure is typical of the epithelial surfaces that are covered with protective mucus. Cell membrane MPLs are no longer seen as passive consequences of cellular activity. The interaction between MPLs and the mucins has been demonstrated, however the role of MPL structure seen on the upper surface of the oral epithelial cells is speculative. The cell surface is of potentially great significance, as it harbors many markers for refined prognosis and targets for oral mucosal diseases and cancer therapy. With these aspects in mind, we conducted the present review of the MPL structure and function in order to form the basis for further studies of MPLs of the oral epithelial cells.

Keywords: Microplicae; SEM; oral mucosa.

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