Abstract
Asbestos bodies were produced experimentally in the lungs of hamsters by intratracheal instillation of three types of asbestos: soft chrysotile, harsh chrysotile, and amosite. Though some differences were noted, harsh chrysotile and amosite fibers were converted into asbestos bodies by the same successive steps that were previously described for soft chrysotile: (1) phagocytosis of asbestos by alveolar macrophages and other phagocytic cells and incorporation into phagolysosomes; (2) accumulation of iron micelles around the fibers, possibly by fusion of asbestos-containing phagosomes with hemosiderin granules; and (3) compaction of the micelles and clearing of the peripheral zone, to form a mature asbestos body. Formation of asbestos bodies seems to be a continuous process with old bodies growing in thickness and uncoated fibers being converted into bodies months or years after instillation of asbestos. Possible origins of hemosiderin granules are discussed. Striking hyperplasia of cell organelles was found, presumably indicative of their participation in the development of the asbestos bodies.
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.
