Immunohistochemical study of cat Pacinian corpuscles: co-localization of vimentin- and S-100 protein-like in the inner core

The presence of vimentin and S-100 protein in cat Pacinian corpuscles of cat mesentery has been investigated immunohistochemically (streptavidin-biotin method) using monoclonal antibodies. A positive reaction for both vimentin- and S-100 protein-like was found only in the lamellae of the inner core. The presence of vimentin and the co-expression of vimentin/S-100 protein-like in sensory corpuscles is reported for the first time. The authors discuss the origin of the inner core and capsule of sensory corpuscles on the basis of their immunohistochemical characteristics.