Free fatty acid receptor 2 Free fatty acid receptor 2 Free fatty acid receptor 2 (FFAR2) is a G-protein coupled receptor encoded by the FFAR2 gene. FFAR2 mRNA is expressed in adipose tissue, pancreas, spleen, lymph nodes, bone marrow, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. FFAR2 transcription is regulated by the XBP1 transcription factor which binds to the core promoter. Mouse studies utilizing Ffar2 gene deletions have implicated the receptor in the regulation of energy metabolism and immune responses. Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFA's) generated in the processing of fiber by intestinal microbiota act as ligands for the receptor and can affect neutrophil chemotaxis. However, discrepancies
Milky spots Milky spots Milky spots are very small white-coloured areas of lymphoid tissue, found in the peritoneal, pleural and pericardial cavities. These are the three coelomic cavities that form as separate compartments from the intraembryonic coelom. More milky spots are found on the greater omentum in the peritoneal cavity than anywhere else. The milky spots are made up of mesenchymal cells and are covered in a layer of mesothelium. These structures surround the small blood vessels. The enclosing mesothelium contains macrophages, lymphocytes and mast cells. They are also known as secondary lymphoid organs. Most milky spots contain extremely thin-walled lymphatic capillaries.