Enzyme histochemical and ultrastructural alterations in the brains of Friesian calves with GM1 gangliosidosis.

Abstract

Histoenzymic and ultrastructural alterations in the brains of seven calves with GM1 gangliosidosis are described. A decreased oxidative enzyme activity in neurons was accompanied by an increase in acid phosphatase activity. Membranous cytoplasmic bodies were present in neurons and glia. The periodicity of the membranes was about 5.5 to 6.0 nm. Electron-dense, membrane-bound inclusions were present in perithelial cells. The lesions were compared with those of gangliosidoses in other species.