Substance P-immunoreactive Cells in Reumatoid Synovium

Substance p (SP), which is localized in the peripheral and central terminals of the afferent nerve fibers, has recently been implcated as acting aneurogenic, inflammatory role in experimental arthritis.The purpose of this study was to investigate the existence of the SP-immunoreactive nerves and cells in rheumatoid synoviun, using immunohistochemistry.We found the SP-immunoreactive cells in rheumatoid synovium, but could not find it in the osteoarthritic synovium.Many SP-reactive cells were localized in the subsynovial lining area, and were observed around blood vessels. It could be considered that SP plays an important role in rheumatoid inflamation.