Identification of vascular endothelial cells in murine omentum using the lectin, Dolichos biflorus agglutinin: possible applications in the study of angiogenesis.

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the plant lectin, Dolichos biflorus agglutinin (DBA), can be used to recognize capillary endothelial cells and their processes during angiogenesis. By means of a peroxidase conjugate of DBA, blood vessels were visualized in whole mounts and ultrathin sections of mouse omentum. A part of this mesentery normally comprises an avascular membrane that is approximately 30 microns in thickness. Changes in the vascular plexus bordering this membrane were induced by intraperitoneal injection of irradiated Landschutz cells. Vascular endothelial cells were precisely and intensely stained, and vasculogenic processes were reliably distinguished from those of other cells. This technique permitted observation of the structure and distribution of capillary sprouts, and their relationship to each other and to pre-existing blood vessels. It was discovered that filiform projections extend from sprout apices. These projections may fuse allowing adjacent sprouts to form a new capillary loop.