AN ELECTRON MICROSCOPE STUDY OF CULTURED RAT SPINAL CORD

Dynamics and mechanisms of CNS myelination

Vertebrate myelination is an evolutionary advancement essential for motor, sensory, and higher-order cognitive function. CNS myelin, a multilamellar differentiation of the oligodendrocyte plasma membrane, ensheaths axons to facilitate electrical conduction. Myelination is one of the most pivotal cell-cell interactions for normal brain development, involving extensive information exchange between differentiating oligodendrocytes and axons. The molecular mechanisms of myelination are discussed, along with new perspectives on oligodendrocyte plasticity and myelin remodeling of the developing and adult CNS.

Granular bodies in root primary meristem cells of Zea mays L. var. Cuscoensis K. (Poaceae) that enter young vacuoles by invagination: a novel ribophagy mechanism

Because it has a very large, very rapidly growing primary root, we evaluated giant maize (Zea mays var. Cuscoensis) as a model organism for root research. Granular inclusions are a common feature of cells in many organisms, but they are not common in root meristems. We here report the presence of granules in root tip cells of giant maize. Seeds were germinated at 20 °C in sterile conditions. Four to 5-day-old primary roots were fixed, embedded, and sectioned for light and electron microscopy. Granules (1-2 μm) were observed in small vacuoles in all cell types of the apical meristem zone and mainly in parenchyma cells of the procambium in the primary meristem zone. Some sections were treated with ribonuclease and/or proteinase and then stained with toluidine blue, methyl green pyronin, or Coomassie brilliant blue. The results were used to determine that the granules were composed primarily of RNA and protein. In electron micrographs, consistent with the enzyme experiment results, granules appeared to be dense aggregates of polyribosomes and rough endoplasmic reticulum. They formed first in the cytosol, then invaginated into an adjacent vacuole. The granules are apparently ephemeral and therefore may not have a function other than being subject to autolysis. We speculate that they are part of a previously undescribed ribophagy system that operates during rapid cell growth and differentiation to regulate translation and recycle granule components.

Endogenous repair after spinal cord contusion injuries in the rat

Contusion injuries of the rat thoracic spinal cord were made using a standardized device developed for the Multicenter Animal Spinal Cord Injury Study (MASCIS). Lesions of different severity were studied for signs of endogenous repair at times up to 6 weeks following injury. Contusion injuries produced a typical picture of secondary damage resulting in the destruction of the cord center and the chronic sparing of a peripheral rim of fibers which varied in amount depending upon the injury magnitude. It was noted that the cavities often developed a dense cellular matrix that became partially filled with nerve fibers and associated Schwann cells. The amount of fiber and Schwann cell ingrowth was inversely related to the severity of injury and amount of peripheral fiber sparing. The source of the ingrowing fibers was not determined, but many of them clearly originated in the dorsal roots. In addition to signs of regeneration, we noted evidence for the proliferation of cells located in the ependymal zone surrounding the central canal at early times following contusion injuries. These cells may contribute to the development of cellular trabeculae that provide a scaffolding within the lesion cavity that provides the substrates for cellular infiltration and regeneration of axons. Together, these observations suggest that the endogenous reparative response to spinal contusion injury is substantial. Understanding the regulation and restrictions on the repair processes might lead to better ways in which to encourage spontaneous recovery after CNS injury.

Evidence for the cholinergic nature of C-terminals associated with subsurface cisterns in alpha-motoneurons of rat

C-terminals can be distinguished at the ultrastructural level from other types of nerve endings on motoneurons by their prominent and regularly occurring postsynaptic specializations termed subsurface cisterns (SSC). We have previously shown (Yamamoto et al., 1991) that an antibody directed against a sequence within the gap junction protein connexin32 immunolabels these motoneuronal SSCs and can therefore serve as a immunohistochemical tool to visualize indirectly the location of C-terminals on motoneurons at the light microscope level. Here we have used this anti-SSC antibody in combination with antibodies against choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) to determine whether C-terminals on motoneurons contain these cholinergic enzyme markers. In sections at all major spinal cord levels and in several cranial motor nuclei examined, motoneuronal cell bodies and their proximal dendrites were studded with large ChAT-immunoreactive (ChAT-IR) boutons. Boutons having a similar distribution and appearance on motoneurons were also immunolabeled for AChE. In addition, motoneurons were surrounded by a dense plexus of AChE-immunoreactive (AChE-IR) varicose fibers and fine preterminal axons. In double-labeled sections, AChE-IR boutons corresponded to those immunolabeled for ChAT. In sections processed for simultaneous immunofluorescence detection of ChAT and SSCs, ChAT-IR boutons were very often found in apposition to immunolabeled SSCs. In sections processed for simultaneous labeling of AChE and SSCs. AChE-IR boutons were again frequently seen abutting labeled SSCs. These results provide the first strong evidence at the LM level that a large proportion, if not the entirety, of C-terminals are cholinergic and show that these terminals consist in part of relatively large varicosities along highly varicose axons that form en passant type contacts on motoneurons. At the same time, our results substantially narrow possibilities regarding the as yet undetermined source of C-terminals, which can now be considered to originate from cholinergic neurons, such as those located in the brainstem and/or the spinal cord.

An aromatase-associated cytoplasmic inclusion, the "stigmoid body," in the rat brain: II. Ultrastructure (with a review of its history and nomenclature)

The ultrastructure of aromatase-associated "stigmoid (dot-like) structures," which were detected in a previous study using light-microscopic immunohistochemistry (Shinoda et al.: J. Comp. Neurol. 322:360-376, '92), were examined in the rat medial preoptic region, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, medial amygdaloid nucleus, and arcuate nucleus by pre- and post-embedding marking with a polyclonal antibody against human placental antigen X-P2 (hPAX-P2) for immuno-electron microscopic analysis. The immunoreactive stigmoid structure was identified as a distinct, non-membrane-bounded cytoplasmic inclusion (approximately 1-3 microns in diameter), which has a granulo-fuzzy texture with moderate-to-low electron density in non-immunostained preparations. It consists of at least four distinct granular and three distinct fibrillo-tubular elements forming a granulo-fibrillar conglomerate. This type of inclusions was formally termed the "stigmoid body" under the electron microscope. The stigmoid body is composed of the outer granulo-fibrillar and inner hyaloplasmic compartments. The immunoreactivity for hPAX-P2 is mainly localized to the former, especially to the low density granulo-fuzzy materials associated with the fibrillo-tubular elements. Identification of the ultrastructure of stigmoid body clarified their prevalence not only in the limbic and hypothalamic regions, but also in sex-steroid-sensitive peripheral tissues (e.g., peripheral sensory ganglia, ovary, testis) by consulting earlier electron-microscopic studies. Reviewing the history and nomenclature of this inclusion body, we reorganized the terminology of related neuronal cytoplasmic inclusions, the terms of which have often been confused, and discussed its functional significance on the basis of the present and previously accumulated data. In conclusion, we emphasized the importance of the stigmoid bodies in the sex-steroid-sensitive neural system because of their large size, high frequency, specific distribution in brains and peripheral tissues, effects of sex-steroids, and immunological and histochemical characteristics of the antibody marking the inclusion. The stigmoid bodies may provide a subcellular site for sex-steroid metabolism in their target tissues and play a critical role in cytosolic modulation of their actions (e.g., by aromatization) prior to their receptor binding.

Neuronal firing patterns of organotypic rat spinal cord cultures in normal and in ACTH/alpha-MSH(4-10) analog (BIM 22015)-supplemented medium

The spontaneous and evoked electrical patterns of spinal cord explants from 13- to 14-day old rat fetuses grown from 2 to 8 weeks in vitro were compared when fed either with a standard or with an adrenocorticotropic hormone/alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (4-10) analog (BIM 22015)-supplemented medium. Standard and BIM 22015-treated cultures developed similar patterns of extracellularly recorded activity which consisted of mostly phasic but also tonic discharges. The standard cultures when treated by BIM 22015 in acute experiments (100 micrograms/ml) showed a decrease in their frequency of discharges which fired in a regular tonic pattern. These effects were neither age- nor dose-dependent but were increased in Ca2+ free medium. The ventral cord neurons chronically fed with BIM 22015 showed a strongly bursting pattern resembling strychnine-induced synchronized bursts. Both these effects, inhibitory (acute) and excitatory (chronic), of the BIM upon spinal cord cultured ventral horn neurons are discussed as possible calcium-dependent phenomena.

Subsurface cisterns in alpha-motoneurons of the rat and cat: immunohistochemical detection with antibodies against connexin32

A monoclonal antibody against amino acids 224-234 of the gap junction protein connexin32 was found by immunohistochemistry to label subsurface cisterns (SSCs) in alpha-motoneurons of the rat (Yamamoto et al., 1990) and was used here to document by light (LM) and electron microscopy (EM) the appearance of immunoreactive SSCs in motoneurons of the rat and cat. This antibody and a polyclonal antibody against connexin32 labelled gap junctions in rat liver as well as SSCs in facial motoneurons. By LM, SSCs were seen as labelled puncta on motoneuronal perikarya and proximal dendrites. In the rat, they appeared to be present on all motoneurons at cranial and spinal levels, but varied considerably in size and number among motor nuclei. Labelled SSCs were the smallest and most sparse in motoneurons of the dorsal vagal motor nucleus, moderate in size and most numerous in the trochlear, oculomotor, and trigeminal motor nuclei, and largest though less densely distributed in spinal motoneurons. Dendrites were seen to contain SSCs for distances of up to 230 micron from their somal origin. Labelling within individual SSCs seen en face consisted of either numerous small puncta or linear arrays of immunoreactivity. By EM, labelled SSCs in the rat facial nucleus were always seen beneath a cluster of C-terminals. Immunolabelling was most dense in the space between the plasma membrane and SSC, which we define as the subsurface cisternal cleft. The SSCs were usually intermittently labelled along their length and exhibited a narrow luminal space ranging from 2 to 5 nm. On the basis of structural analogies between SSCs in neurons and the sacroplasmic reticulum terminal cistern/T-tubule complex in muscle, SSCs have previously been suggested to be important sites of calcium mobilization. The constant association of C-terminal with SSCs in motoneurons may represent a useful model in which to study SSC function as well as to investigate the possible presence of a connexinlike protein at regions of SSCs that form a narrow lumen similar to that at gap junctions.

Neuronal survival and neurite growth in cultured cerebral explants: assessment of the effect of cytosine arabinoside using improved stereology

Using improved stereological procedures, based on measurements of the total reference volume, the effect of cytosine arabinoside (AraC) on neurons and non-neuronal cells in rat cerebral explants has been reinvestigated. These analyses revealed that, in the AraC-treated explants, neurons support a significantly increased volume of neurites, while the volume of non-neuronal cells in the outgrowth zone is significantly decreased. The total number of neurons is similar in the control and treated explants. Since AraC primarily affects dividing cells, these data suggest that the increased volume of neurites per neuron may be mediated through a curtailment of non-neuronal cell division in the AraC-treated explants. This volumetric approach represents a major improvement on current morphometric approaches for quantifying cultured explants of nervous tissue, and provides important evidence that the previously postulated effects of AraC are real ones.

Carbon filaments provide support and directionality to growing rat fetal spinal cord explants

Spinal cord explants obtained from 15 to 17-day-old fetal rats were cultured on bundles of 5-7 microns diameter carbon filaments attached to the bottom of Petri dishes. After a 3 week incubation period, the cultures were fixed and observed by light, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy. Neurites and glial processes were found to be growing both on and between the carbon filaments. The carbon filaments appeared to provide a biocompatible scaffold which promoted adhesion and gave directionality to the growing cell processes. These properties may make carbon filaments a suitable substrate for in vivo implantation into the damaged spinal cord.

Epitopes of gap junctional proteins localized to neuronal subsurface cisterns

Several lines of evidence indicate the existence of channels that mediate the movement of calcium from the extracellular space directly into some intracellular calcium storage compartment and from one intracellular membrane-bounded compartment to another. The possibility that such channels resemble intercellular communication pathways formed by gap junction proteins (connexins) was investigated in rat brain. Antibodies against a rat liver gap junction protein (connexin32) were found to recognize several distinct proteins on Western blots of brain homogenates. In motoneurons these antibodies immunohistochemically labelled portions of neuronal endoplasmic reticulum membranes that form subsurface cisterns (SSCs) adjacent to the plasma membrane. These results suggest that SSCs and connexin-like proteins may be involved in the process of calcium mobilization in neurons.

Ventral and dorsal horn acetylcholinesterase neurons are maintained in organotypic cultures of postnatal rat spinal cord explants

Transverse sections of postnatal rat spinal cord have been cultured using the organotypic roller tube method. These explant cultures retain identifiable anatomical landmarks, allow identification of individual neurons, can be maintained for up to 8 weeks, and undergo maturational changes in vitro. Putative ventral horn motoneurons were identified in these cultures by localization to ventral horn regions analogous to those of motoneurons in vivo and by staining for choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) immunoreactivity and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity. Morphometric studies of the photomicrographic areas of cell bodies of these ventral horn neurons in intact cultures show a range of sizes up to 1635 microns 2 with the average size being 245 +/- 7 microns 2 (n = 724) (average +/- S.E.M.). The size ranges are roughly comparable to cross-sectional areas determined previously for ventral horn motoneurons in vivo. Dorsal horn regions of these cultures also developed prominent AChE activity that was absent at explantation. Biochemical analysis of ChAT and AChE activity in pooled samples of whole cultures showed ChAT activity to be 0.48 +/- 0.08 (n = 7) mumol/min/g protein and AChE activity to be 12.2 +/- 2.0 (n = 7) mumol/min/g protein at 37 degrees C (averages +/- S.E.M.). These values are comparable to previously reported values for neonatal rat spinal cord in situ. Organotypic roller tube cultures of postnatal rat spinal cord provide an attractive system for studies of survival, morphology, growth and differentiation of mammalian ventral horn neurons in vitro.

Long-term culture of human fetal spinal cord neurons: morphological, immunocytochemical and electrophysiological characteristics

Cultures were prepared from ventral spinal cord tissue from 8-11-week gestational human fetuses and grown for a period of up to 6 months. These cultures were studied by morphological, immunocytochemical and intracellular electrophysiological techniques. From 2 weeks in vitro and onward, small bipolar cells were found in outgrowths of spinal cord explants and were identified as neurons by positive immunoreactions with an antibody specific for neurofilament protein. In addition, a large population of glial fibrillary acidic protein-positive astrocytes and a smaller number of galactocerebroside-positive oligodendrocytes were recognized in these cultures. The development of synaptic terminals was also studied by electron microscopy. The first appearance of synaptic terminal was found in a 3-week culture and was an axo-dendritic synapse. During the next 2 months, there was a steady increase in number and structural maturation of synaptic profiles. In addition to axo-dendritic synapses, which were most common, axo-somatic and axo-axonic synapses were demonstrated. After 3 months in culture, the occurrence of large neurons possessing the characteristic features of mature neurons was also noted. Although the occurrence of oligodendrocytes in these cultures was confirmed, no myelination of axons was demonstrated by electron microscopy. Intracellular recordings were obtained from the cultured spinal cord cells, and these cells were identified clearly as neurons by their action potential responses to depolarizing current pulses. The average input resistance of these neurons was 31 M omega with resting membrane potential of -52 +/- 2.3 mV.

Gliogenesis in organotypic tissue culture of the spinal cord of the embryonic mouse. I. Immunocytochemical and ultrastructural studies

The technique of organotypic tissue culture offers an opportunity to observe in vitro complex interactions among glial cells and neurons, leading to the formation of myelin. In the present and accompanying work a combined ultrastructural, immunocytochemical and autoradiographic approach was used in a detailed study of the process of gliogenesis. Using immunocytochemical and ultrastructural criteria, differentiation along the oligodendroglia cell line is seen to be initiated a few days later than along the astroglial line. The sequence and timing of oligodendroglial differentiation both ultrastructurally and chemically follow those described in vivo. Formation of myelin has been demonstrated only by oligodendrocytes in which there is continuity between the perikaryal plasmalemma and myelin membranes. Oligodendroglial maturation culminated with the formation of light, medium and dark oligodendrocytes. The periodic acid Schiff-positive, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-negative process of radial glial cells at explantation become GFAP-positive within 3 days, as described in vivo. Many of the astrocytes appear to have been derived from radial glial cells. Large numbers of dark glial cells, similar to the so-called 'intermediate glial cells', were seen. These were found to be astrocytes whose appearance probably reflected reaction to explantation-induced injury.

Maturation of opioid sensitivity of fetal mouse dorsal root ganglion neuron perikarya in organotypic cultures: regulation by spinal cord

Opioid agonists selectively decrease the duration of the Ca2+ component of the action potential recorded from embryonic dorsal root ganglion neurons in dissociated cell cultures. In contrast, no significant alterations in the action potentials generated by adult dorsal root ganglion neurons in vivo were detected during opioid exposure. In the present study, the perikaryal opioid sensitivity of fetal mouse dorsal root ganglion neurons was analyzed during maturation in organotypic explant cultures. To determine whether spinal cord might influence this sensitivity, neuron perikarya were tested in ganglia grown: (a) in isolation; (b) attached to spinal cord explants; and (c) attached to spinal cord, but decentralized by a dorsal root transection in mature explants 1-2 weeks before the tests. After 2-8 weeks in culture, the duration of the Ba2+-enhanced Ca2+ component of intracellularly recorded action potentials was measured prior to and during bath exposure to the opioid, [D-Ala2, D-Leu5]enkephalin. Sensitive neurons were characterized by a marked, reversible reduction (averaging about 50%) in the duration of the Ca2+ component (which was antagonized by naloxone). The fraction of opioid-sensitive neuron perikarya in dorsal root ganglia grown attached to cord explants was significantly lower (48%) than in ganglia grown isolated (78%) or decentralized in vitro (79%). The mean duration of the Ca2+ component was significantly shorter in ganglion cells which had been grown attached to cord, or subsequently decentralized, compared to cells grown in isolated ganglia (by 24 and 38%, respectively). This difference was even larger in the opioid-insensitive groups. Although opioid-sensitive perikarya in ganglia grown attached to cord had a significantly longer Ba2+-enhanced Ca2+ component than that of insensitive neurons, some of the insensitive perikarya in all 3 types of explant paradigms displayed Ca2+ components which were as prolonged as those of sensitive cells. The results obtained in this study support the hypothesis that the observed decrease in the fraction of opioid-sensitive perikarya during development of fetal mouse dorsal root ganglia is due to regulation by interactions with their central target tissue, the spinal cord. The developmental decrease in the duration of the Ca2+ component of the action potential of these ganglion cells is also enhanced by the presence of the spinal cord. However, regulation of functional opiate receptors and Ca2+ component duration of the ganglion cell perikarya appear to be independent processes.

Transformation of cells of astrocyte lineage into macrophage-like cells in organotypic cultures of mouse spinal cord tissue

Phagocytic cells on the surface of the explants and their relationships to the surface were examined morphologically and immunocytochemically in organotypic cultures of mouse spinal cord tissue. Phagocytic cells were rounded, had smooth cytoplasmic surfaces and were occasionally closely apposed to underlying cells by junctional complexes. These cells contained dense bodies, vacuoles, smooth and coated vesicles, a few microtubules and bundles of intermediate filaments similar to astroglial filaments. The superficial layer of the explant which usually consisted of astroglial cell bodies and their processes, sometimes contained immature neuroepithelial cells with numerous free ribosomes, centrioles, Golgi apparatus, microtubules and infrequently, intermediate filaments. Overall, the cells resembled poorly differentiated astrocytes. Numerous dense bodies and coated vesicles were observed in some of these immature cells as well as in astrocytes in the surface layer of the explant. Cytoplasmic bridges between immature cells within the explant and phagocytic cells on the surface were observed. Immunocytochemistry revealed the presence of glial fibrillary acidic protein within these surface phagocytic cells. It thus appears that immature neuroepithelial cells of astrocytic lineage are capable of transforming into macrophage-like cells in organotypic culture.

Development of synaptic organization in the tangential vestibular nucleus: a quantitative electron microscope study

The objective of the present study is to quantify the developmental changes in the total synaptic pattern of one part, the soma, of one particular cell type, the principal cells of the tangential vestibular nucleus. The term "synaptic space" is defined and quantified. Intermediate stages in the development of synaptic organization are compared. The findings show that the synaptic space available to the full complement of afferents is constant throughout development, while specific terminals in the afferent population change their synaptic space allotments. The synaptic-junction covering is invariant for small terminals at intermediate stages of development with set proportions between "active" and "non-active" zones of the synaptic surfaces. However, the spoon endings and the postsynaptic target cells are covered by synaptic junctions in variable amounts. The findings are important to the fields of neuroembryology and neural plasticity, for the system provides a useful basis to measure the influence of factors in the local environment and the role of formation of synaptic connections in the competition for synaptic space. This study will assist investigators to probe the mechanisms operating in the selection of competing afferents for the limited amount of surface area available under the changing conditions of maturation and aging in the central nervous system.

Ultrastructural characterization of glial cells in the rat pineal gland with special reference to the pineal stalk

In the present study the "interstitial" cells of the superficial pineal gland and the nonparenchymal cells of the pineal stalk in Sprague-Dawley rats were examined ultrastructurally with the aim of defining the cells more closely. The "interstitial" cells of the superficial pineal gland do not represent a homogeneous cell population. The most abundant cell type is the mononuclear phagocyte, most easily recognized by its dark appearance and its content of primary and conspicuous secondary lysosomes. Astrocytes can be distinguished by the typical appearance of their nuclei (i.e., a thin continuous rim of heterochromatin adjacent to the nuclear membrane), identical to that of astrocytes in the CNS. Depending on the absence or presence of glial filaments and their amount, a spectrum of astrocytic cells is present. Mature astrocytes with filaments throughout their cytoplasm are rare. Immature glial cells with few or no filaments predominate. In the vicinity of blood vessels pericytes are present. In view of the fact that the "interstitial" cells could generally be identified it is suggested to abandon the term interstitial for the cells in question. In the pineal stalk mature astrocytes predominate; they have some features in common with pinealocytes, i.e., the presence of intergrade endoplasmic reticulum and grumose bodies (lysosomes). Other unusual features are a relative abundance of coated pits and vesicles. Oligodendrocytes are restricted to the proximal part of the stalk, near the deep pineal, where myelinated axons are abundant. More distally a few Schwann cells were seen.

The organization of astrocytes in organotypic mouse spinal cord culture: an electron microscope study

The organization of astrocytes in myelinated culture of mouse spinal cord tissue was analysed ultrastructurally and compared with the pattern in vivo. Astrocyte cell bodies and their processes, connected by punctate adhesions and gap junctions, formed a continuous layer around the entire explant. Throughout the parenchyma, thin astrocytic processes penetrated the neuropil, separated neurons, and invested some synaptic complexes. Others formed flattened sheets and contacted directly with the basal surface of ependymal cells. In the absence of mesenchymal elements, astrocytes in vitro occasionally possessed fragments of basal lamina on the surface of the explant and around minute intercellular spaces. Except for an incomplete basal lamina, these findings indicate that astrocytes in vitro are organized in a manner essentially identical to the situation in vivo.

Two forms of cerebellar glial cells interact differently with neurons in vitro

Specific interactions between neurons and glia dissociated from early postnatal mouse cerebellar tissue were studied in vitro by indirect immunocytochemical staining with antisera raised against purified glial filament protein, galactocerebroside, and the NILE glycoprotein. Two forms of cells were stained with antisera raised against purified glial filament protein. The first, characterized by a cell body 9 microns diam and processes 130-150 microns long, usually had two to three neurons associated with them and resembled Bergmann glia. The second had a slightly larger cell body with markedly shorter arms among which were nestled several dozen neuronal cells, and resembled astrocytes of the granular layer. Staining with monoclonal antisera raised against purified galactocerebroside revealed the presence of immature oligodendroglia in the cultures. These glial cells constituted approximately 2% of the total cell population in the cultures and, in contrast to astroglia, did not form specific contacts with neurons. Staining with two neuronal markers, antisera raised against purified NILE glycoprotein and tetanus toxin, revealed that most cells associated with presumed astroglia were small neurons (5-8 microns). After 1-2 d in culture, some stained neurons had very fine, short processes. Nearly all of the processes greater than 10-20 micron long were glial in origin. Electron microscopy also demonstrated the presence of two forms of astroglia in the cultures, each with a different organizing influence on cerebellar neurons. Most neurons associated with astroglia were granule neurons, although a few larger neurons sometimes associated with them. Time-lapse video microscopy revealed extensive cell migration (approximately 10 microns/h) along the arms of Bergmann-like astroglia. In contrast, cells did not migrate along the arms of astrocyte-like astroglia, but remained stationary at or near branch points. Growth cone activity, pulsating movements of cell perikarya, and ruffling of the membranes of glial and neuronal processes were also seen.

Ultrastructure of Müller cells in the developing human retina

The posterior retina of human embryos from 4 to 200 mm of crown-rump length was studied by electron microscopy. At 20 mm dense inner Müller-cell processes near ganglion cells contained rough endoplasmic reticulum, free ribosomes, small matrix particles, and some intermediate filaments. These processes soon had smooth endoplasmic reticulum. By 71 mm many of these inner processes were lucent and contained many intermediate filaments and glycogen particles. Müller-cell nuclei and outer processes were observed between differentiating cone cells at 66 mm, and these outer radial-cell processes soon contained many dense matrix particles and glycogen particles. As neurons in the inner nuclear layer differentiated by 100 mm, Müller-cell cytoplasm in the mid-retina was identified by its intermediate filaments and glycogen particles. Müller cells have composite glial features that appear in the horizontal retinal layers concomitant with neuronal differentiation and maturation in each layer.

Veratridine-stimulated central synapses in culture: a quantitative ultrastructural analysis

Synapses in explant cultures of fetal rat neocortex at day 18 in vitro were stimulated by veratridine (10(-4)M) for 20 min. The cultures were subsequently processed for electron microscopy and the synapses were analyzed by quantitative techniques, incorporating set mathematical treatment. The mean values of area, perimeter, and form factor of the presynaptic elements significantly increased following veratridine stimulation, compared to the values of control synapses. The length of the postsynaptic thickening also increased, while synaptic curvature did not change significantly in the veratridine group. A fivefold reduction was observed in the mean number of synaptic vesicles per presynaptic element and in the vesicle-terminal area ratio, following veratridine stimulation. The cytoplasm-terminal area ratio and the occurrence of vacuoles/cisternae significantly increased after veratridine application. Planar measurement of membranes (boundary length) of different presynaptic organelles revealed that the total membrane did not change significantly in the veratridine group. The data indicated an increase in volume and swelling of the pre- and postsynaptic elements, considerable depletion of synaptic vesicles, and preservation of the total presynaptic membrane following veratridine stimulation in nerve tissue culture.

Spinal cord grafts: an intraocular approach to enigmas of nerve growth regulation

The possible usefulness of intraocular transplantation in studies of spinal cord growth and regeneration has been evaluated. Defined segments of fetal rat spinal cord were grafted to the anterior chamber of the eye of adult rats. Such grafts become vascularized from the host iris, grow and develop neuron types, myelinated fiber bundles, astroglial populations (as shown by GFA-immunoreactivity), and electrical activity reminiscent of such features in normal spinal cord tissue. The intraocular technique permits studies of intrinsic circuitries as well as conditions for formation of afferent and efferent connections with the host iris and with other central or peripheral tissues which can be grafted into contact with the spinal cord grafts. One example of an intrinsic system preserved in the grafts is a rich network of nerve fibers with enkephalin-like immunoreactivity. When combined with cerebral cortex, the enkephalin-positive neurons of the spinal cord graft are able to form only very limited projections to the cortex graft. Special emphasis was given the possible formation of adrenergic afferents to spinal cord grafts. No appreciable ingrowth of peripheral sympathetic nerves occurred. Locus coeruleus grafts have many organotypical electrophysiological characteristics and were able to innervate adjacent spinal cord grafts provided that the sensory innervation of the host iris was removed. Experiments such as these suggest that "negative neurotropic" factors may be present in spinal cord and possibly relate to the unique relationship between spinal ganglia and spinal cord.

Junctions in rat neocortical explants cultured in TTX-, GABA-, and Mg++-environments

The occurrence of various cell-to-cell contacts and membrane specializations was quantitated in neocortical explant cultures prepared from 18-day-old rat embryos and exposed continuously to tetrodotoxin (TTX), gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and an elevated level of magnesium ions (Mg++), respectively. Chronic TTX treatment resulted in a decrease in the number of synapses, paired neuronal membrane thickenings and nerve terminals with synaptic vesicles; the area of the neuronal compartment also decreased. By contrast, the gap junctions between glial cells increased, although the glial paired membrane thickenings decreased in number per unit area. Long-term GABA and Mg++ exposures did not alter significantly the occurrence of any of the cell contacts and membrane specializations analyzed when compared to control values. The results suggest an inhibitory effect of TTX on neuronal maturation and synapse formation in explant cultures of rat neocortex; this may lead secondarily to an increased demand for glial cell-to-cell communication.

Effect of GABA-administration on murine neuroblastoma cells in culture. I. Increased membrane dynamics and formation of specialized contacts

(Gamma aminobutyric acid) GABA was applied to cultures of mouse neuroblastoma cells of different ages at concentrations ranging from 10(-4) to 10(-6) M. The cultures were exposed to GABA either in short term experiments for 2 h to 2 days or for longer periods by adding the substance twice within 10 days at 5-day intervals. The following effects were observed: (1) There was a strong proliferation of coated vesicles, appearing to derive from the Golgi complex and the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER), and also showing all intermediate stages of fusion and pinching off from the plasma membranes. (2) In numerous areas, electron-dense material aggregated at the inner aspect of the plasma membrane and around small invaginations of the plasmalemma. (3) The number and area of specialized contacts increased between cells and their processes. (4) Similar to cultures free of GABA, varicosities and terminal swellings of the cells and their processes were filled with small round vesicle, 40--60 nm in diameter, or with smooth, very large, empty-appearing vesicular inclusions, or with flat pleiomorphic vesicles. In addition, mitochondria and some formations of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) appeared, and primitive contacts (symmetrical densities) were formed. (5) Dense-cored vesicles were found peripherally and linearly arranged, surrounded by an electron-dense substance. (6) Electron-dense material of unknown origin was seen between cells or their processes near the peripherally arranged dense-cored vesicles. Exogenous GABA may play a specific role in the early stages of synaptogenesis, since it showed a positive effect on the neuroblastoma cells, which in the absence of GABA are only capable of forming primitive or immature presynaptic elements. The significance of the peripheral accumulation of dense-cored vesicles, accompanied by an amorphous, electron-dense substance occurring both intra- and extracellularly is discussed.

Cell-to-cell contacts in primary cultures of dissociated chicken embryonic brain

The fine structure of intercellular contacts was studied in primary cultures prepared from chicken embryonic brain. Desmosomes were frequently seen between the glial cells. Synaptic contacts were observed among neuronal cell bodies and neural processes after 8 days in vitro. Gap junctions were revealed between glial elements suggesting a functional role in direct cell communication and providing a morphological basis for previous observations on potassium transport in cultures of dissociated brain cells.

gamma-Aminobutyric acid receptors visualized in spinal cord cultures by [3H]muscimol autoradiography

gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors were visualized in mouse spinal cord explant cultures by [3H]muscimol autoradiography over certain small neurons of the dorsal horn grey matter, in the interneuronal neuropil of dorsal and ventral horns, and (rarely) in small clusters on processes of anterior horn cells. Specificity was indicated in control experiments by inhibition of binding by [3H]muscimol after pretreatment with GABA or a GABA analogue, 4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[5,4-c]pyridin-3-ol (THIP, isoxazole 16), or with receptor antagonists bicuculline and picrotoxin. Unlabeled muscimol exchanged effectively with [3H]muscimol and produced autoradiographic label in locations indistinguishable from those found in experiments with [3H]muscimol alone. Pretreatment with the GABA uptake and transport inhibitors (-)-nipecotic acid and guvacine did not affect binding with [3H]muscimol. These experiments indicate that explant culture systems can be used for demonstration of functional receptors.

Annulate lamellae, lamellar bodies and subsurface cisternae in neurons of the avian hyperstriatum accessorium

Structures identified as annulate lamellae, lamellar bodies and subsurface cisternae were found in neurons of the hyperstriatum accessorium of the avian forebrain. Annulate lamellar arrays with up to six lamellae were present in the larger somata. The lamellae were made up of fused smooth-surfaced cisternae forming pores or annuli and were surrounded by a dense filamentous to granular material. Stacks of nonfenestrated, parallel, regularly spaced cisternae, designated as lamellar bodies, also appeared in the cytoplasm. When flattened they were reminiscent of the electron dense subsurface cisternae. Continuity could be demonstrated between peripherally located subsurface cisternae and lamellar bodies. The dense filamentous to finely granular substance was also located between these structures. Annulate lamellae, lamellar bodies and subsurface cisternae were always observed in conjunction with the rough endoplasmic reticulum. The functional significance of these structural associations is considered.

Degeneration and regeneration of autonomic nerve endings in the anterior part of rhesus monkey ciliary muscle

The autonomic nerve plexus of the ciliary muscle was examined with the electron microscope in normal rhesus monkeys of different ages. In the anterior region of the muscle, at the boundary with the poorly innervated scleral spur and trabecular meshwork, 3.8-7.1% of the axons exhibit either degenerative or regenerative features. The cytoplasm of degenerating axons contains lamellated, dense and multivesicular bodies, vesicles, whorls of filaments, and membranous debris. The plasma membrane is often discontinuous and, on occasion, axonal debris and degenerative organelles are freely dispersed in the connective tissue spaces of the muscle. Degenerating axons contain a granular reaction product when stained for acid phosphatase activity. Regenerating axons are characterized by tightly packed mitochondria, glycogen particles, and aggregates of synaptic vesicles; they synapse with muscle cells and are negative to the acid phosphatase reaction. A quantitative analysis showed that in the anterior region of the ciliary muscle degenerating and regenerating axons increase in number with age, although the total number of axonal profiles remains constant. In the age groups examined, degenerating axons occurred with the same frequency as regenerating axons, thus, the age-dependent increase in axonal degeneration is accompanied by a parallel increase in axonal regeneration. We conclude that autonomic nerve endings in the anterior part of the ciliary muscle undergo a continuous process of renewal that is more prominent in old age.

The role of ependyma in regeneration of the spinal cord in the urodele amphibian tail

The new spinal cord formed during tail regeneration in the newt first develops as a caudal extension of the ependymal tube. Neuroblasts and neuroglia subsequently differentiate from cells of the ependymal tube in a proximal-caudal sweep. Descending axons from the cord rostral to the lesion and from newly differentiating neurons travel in channels which are present prior to the ingrowth of axons. The present study confirms previous observations from our laboratory and presents details of the ultrastructural relations of axons and ependymal processes within the cord. The ependymal cell surface facing channels typically forms numerous digitor sheet-like protuberances which extend into the channel lumen. As axons enter the channels in increasing numbers these protuberances partially subdivide the axons into smaller groupings, even occasionally segregating individual axons. At levels where fibers have not yet entered or have most recently entered the ependymal channesl two specializations appear on the ependymal plasmalemma facing the channels and their axons: coated membranes and hemidesmosome-like structures. At more mature levels, where many fibers have already entered the channels, axons in contact with ependymal processes sometimes show synapse-lide vesicle accumulations with associated membrane densities. Coated membranes and hemidesmosome-like structures are lacking at these levels. Our observations suggest that ependymal processes, in addition to providing substrate and direction for regenerating spinal cord axons, may also furnish or exchange more specific information at the morphologically identifiable specializations described above.

The development and ultrastructure of previously dissociated foetal human cerebral cortical cells in vitro

Cells from foetal human cerebral cortex were mechanically dissociated and subsequently maintained in vitro for periods ranging between three and twenty-eight days. The ultrastructure of these cells at different stages of their development in culture was extensively examined. Nuclear and cytoplasmic features were extremely variable and a wide range of cell types was evidently represented. Of the three principal cell types found i.e. neurons, neuroglia and mesenchymal cells, only a minority of cells was classified with confidence, particularly during the first two weeks in culture. Extensive intercellular junctions of the adhaerens variety, common after 14 days in vitro were present at an earlier stage of development than synaptic profiles. First indications of synapse formation were observed after 21 days in vitro and after 24 days presynaptic sites filled with synaptic vesicles and with well defined presynaptic and postsynaptic thickenings were found. The significance of some of the features observed are both considered and discussed.

Comparison between the size of granular vesicles in intact cells and vesicles obtained by fragmentation of biomembranes

Preparations of biomembranes, consisting of membrane vesicles, were analyzed with the analytical ultracentrifuge. Under certain conditions depending on the speed of rotation and the temperature, a sedimentation profile was observed that was highly characteristic for membranous material. From the sedimentation coefficients obtained, we calculated particle weights for the various well-defined membrane components. In certain types of preparations the particle weights of two adjacent components differed on average by a factor of 2. When vesicles obtained by fragmentation of biomembranes were compared with the granular vesicles present in intact cells, the accordance in diameters was striking. This may indicate that the size of vesicles is determined by purely physical factors.

The ultrastructure of the sheath around chronically implanted electrodes in brain

Insulated, bipolar stainless steel electrodes were chronically implanted in various regions of the cat brain and the long-term structural changes in the tissue surrounding the electrodes were studied by light and electron microscopy. A sheath surrounded and separated the electrode from normal grey or white matter. A layer of foreign body giant cells of variable thickness was formed adjacent to the electrode. This layer was attenuated in some places so that it was unrecognizable by light microscopy. The bulk of the sheath structure consisted of collagen fibrils, leptomeningeal cells and hypertrophied astrocytes. Areas consisting of modified leptomeningeal cells with long thin processes we designated as spongy areas. These have not been previously reported using the electron microscope. Glycogen bodies were seen in leptomeningeal cells. Astrocytes became greatly enlarged and were more numerous in and around the sheath. Oligodendrocytes contained lamellar bodies, and direct continuity was shown between a lamellar body and an adjacent myelin sheath. Myelin was seen in abnormal sites (around oligodendrocytes and neurons) and in unusual configurations. Neuronal changes near the sheath included whorls and stacks of modified endoplasmic reticulum and the presence of cytoplasmic nucleolus-like bodies. Reactive, regenerative and degenerative axons were observed. Blood vessels were more numerous in the sheath and surrounding tissue than normal. Perivascular spaces were prominent even around capillaries and often plasma cells and monocytes were in these spaces. As compared to normal tissue the extracellular space is noticeably increased. Electrodes passing through ventricles were surrounded with a sheath covered with ependymal cells. This sheath was comparable in structure to the sheath present around the electrode in other locations.

Angiomatosis retinae. An ultrastructural study and lipid analysis

A nonfamilial case of agiomatosis retinae (retinal hemangioblastoma) was studied by electron microscopy. In addition to the three major types of cells previously identified within the tumor (endothelial cells, pericytes, heavily lipidized stromal cells), fibrous astrocytes in different stages of lipidization were also found. The endothelial cells were fenestrated, providing the basis for the extravasated exudate that is characteristic of the tumor. The pericytes were completely surrounded by casement membranes and displayed no significant lipidization; in a cellular plaque of vasular tissue at the base of the lesion, however, some of the multilaminar pericytes showed evidence of early smooth muscle differentiation. The stromal cells contained abundant lipid vacuoles and a few organelles, and exhibited granular degeneration of cytoplasmic filaments between the lipid vacuoles. There was spotty basement membrane formation where the stromal cells abutted on the vascular elements. No interconversion could be demonstrated among the endothelial cells, pericytes, and stromal cells. A source for the stromal cells was discovered in the early lipisization of fibrous astrocytes. Analysis of the extracted lipid from the tumor by means of infrared spectroscopy, lipid chromatography, and x-ray diffraction disclosed that the lipid was mostly cholestrol stearate, a plasma lipid. It is suggested that in the retinal lesions the leaky (fenestrated) capillaries of the tumor allowed the passive imbibition of plasma lipid by the fibrous astrocytes, leading to their gradual transformation into the fully lipidized stromal cells.

A comparative statistical study of hippocampal neuronal spontaneous spike activity in situ and in vitro

The statistical characteristics of the spontaneous spike activity of rat hippocampal neurons in fields CA1-2 were compared in situ and in tissue culture. Statistical analyses have shown strong similarities in estimators of basic numerical characteristics of interspike interval (SIS) distributions. These similarities may serve as evidence of maintenance of normal functional properties and an "organotypic arrangement" of neurons in tissue culture, and they are also indicative of an intrahippocampal origin of the spontaneous impulse activity in the hippocampus. On the other hand, some differences are noted in the tests of firing patterns. Interpretation of these results leads to some assumptions about mechanisms of the phenomenon under study.

Gap junctions between astrocytes during growth and differentiation in organ culture systems

Fetal rat neocortex maintained in organ culture systems with the use of sponge foam matrices and millipore filter platforms undergoes growth and cytodifferentiation along classical neuronal and glial lines up to 36 days in vitro (DIV). Astrocytic differentiation is characterized by accumulation of 80-90 A glial filaments in the cell bodies and processes of astrocytes. Gap or nexus junctions closely resembling those formed in mammalian brain in situ are identified by 15 DIV. By 36 DIV, interastrocytic gap junctions are numerous and frequently join extensive lengths of adjacent glial plasma membranes. The results suggest that these organ culture systems may provide a favorable environment for the study of cellular structure and function of coupled neuroglia.

Synaptogenesis in the ventromedial hypothalamus of the prenatal mouse

Mouse embryos from day 13 to day 19 of gestation (E13 through E19) were removed by Caesarean section and their brains were prepared for electron microscopy. Coronal sections were examined in three planes through the ventromedial hypothalamus: anterior, the level at which the optic tracts pass posterolaterally to become partially enclosed in the major brain mass; middle, the level at which the floor of the third ventricle begins to widen and flatten; posterior, the level at which the most anterior infundibulum appears. Three types of junctional complexes were examined. Close junctions are identified as straight, parallel areas of two apposed membranes which appear more electron-dense than immediately adjacent regions. The membranes are separated by a clearly visible cleft. Unlike synapses, no clear synaptic vesicles are found in either of the adjacent profiles unless randomly distributed and accompanied by ribosomes or glycogen. Close junctions are seen most frequently on day E15, then decrease in number through E19. Their participation in synaptogenesis is discussed from temporal, morphological, distributional and quantitative perspectives and is provisionally rejected. Immature synapses show only the minimal membrane specialization found in close junctions, but vesicles are present, ribosomes absent in at least one of the adjacent cytoplasms. Their appearance peaks on E17-E18, paralleling and slightly preceding that of the mature synapses. Their evolution from close junctions has only weak temporal support. Mature synapses display the cytoplasmic densities which immature synapses lack. They attain their greatest prenatal numbers on E18, then decrease in number on E19. The conclusion is advanced that synaptogenesis does--or at least can--occur without the prior appearance of avesicular regions of increased membrane density.

Ultrastructure of sarcoplasmic reticulum in atrial myocardium of patients with mitral valvular disease

Alterations observed in the sarcoplasmic reticulum of muscle cells in left and right atrial myocardium from 10 patients with mitral valvular disease consisted of: a) proliferation of rough-surfaced endoplasmic reticulum, which formed large cisterns in perinuclear areas of hypertrophied cells and was considered indicative of increased protein synthesis; b) proliferation of free sarcoplasmic reticulum, a change that occurred in degenerated cells and appeared to be related to loss of contractile elements; c) two types of aggregates of tubules of free SR--one type was associated wtih abnormal Z-band material and was found only in cells showing loss of myofibrils and proliferation of free SR, whereas the other was not associated with either of these changes and occurred in less severely altered cells; and d) proliferation and enlargement of cisterns of extended junctional sarcoplasmic reticulum, which formed two distinct types of complexes: the first of these consisted of large, convoluted (Type A) cisterns that were wide (550 to 650 A in thickness) and did not have a central dense lamina; the second was composed of stacks of concentric or parallel (Type B) cisterns that were narrower (220 to 300 A in thickness), had a central dense lamina, and were separated from one another by layers of glycogen granules. The formation of these complexes of cisterns was regarded as an extreme form of overdevelopment of extended junctional sarcoplasmic reticulum in atrial muscle cells.