Integrative analysis of corticotrophs and folliculostellate cells: aging and paracrine regulation

BACKGROUND: Aging of the human anterior pituitary is accompanied by structural remodeling of hormone-producing and non-endocrine cellular components. The coordinated morphometric relationship between adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-producing corticotrophs and folliculostellate (FS) cells during aging remains insufficiently characterized. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-nine human anterior pituitaries (33-95 years, both sexes) obtained at autopsy were examined using immunohistochemistry for ACTH and S-100 protein. Volume densities (VVACTH, VVFS) were quantified using calibrated digital morphometry. Correlation and regression analyses were performed to assess intercellular associations and age-related trends. RESULTS: Both ACTH and FS cell volume densities demonstrated significant age-related increases (p < 0.05). A strong positive correlation was observed between VVACTH and VVFS (R = 0.61, p < 0.001). Regression analysis confirmed that increased FS cell density was significantly associated with increased corticotroph volume fraction. CONCLUSIONS: Aging of the human anterior pituitary is characterized by coordinated expansion of corticotroph and FS cell compartments. These findings support structural coupling between endocrine and non-endocrine cellular networks and reinforce the concept of paracrine integration within the aging adenohypophysis.