Abstract
The effect of colchicine on the organization of lysosomal system in rat pancreatic exocrine cells was three-dimensionally examined by 2μm semithin section electron microscopy combined with acid phosphatase (ACPase) cytochemistry. In control rat pancreatic exocrine cells, ACPase activity was localized in trans Golgi cisternae, usual spherical lysosomes, and elongated lysosomes (nematolysosomes). The distribution of lysosomes was geographically characteristic. Most spherical lysosomes were located around the Golgi complex. The nematolysosomes elongated from near basolateral plasma membrane to the Golgi area. In colchicine-treated rats which were intraperitoneally injected with 5 mg/kg B.W. of colchicine 4 hr before fixation, the normal distribution of lysosomes was strikingly disorganized. The spherical lysosomes increased in number and size. The nematolysosomes appeared to be fragmented or shrunk, and change their form to spherical. The normal appearance of lysosomes was recovered at 12-24 hr after colchicine injection. The changes in distribution and shape of lysosomes by colchicine seemed to be correlated with the integrity of microtubules. The morphological association of microtubules with nematolysosomes was also revealed by electron microscopy. These results suggest that the microtubule is essential for nematolysosomes in pancreatic exocrine cells.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
