Abstract
In view of the marked changes which we have recently described in the Golgi-stained nerve cell bodies and dendrites of cerebral neocortex in senescent human subjects, we have attempted a similar study of the very old (26 to 30 months) mouse for comparative purposes. Although neocortical changes in this species seemed unimpressive, marked and apparently progressive agerelated changes were found in most neurons of spinal cord and lower brain stem. Early changes included irregular swelling and “lumpiness” of cell bodies and initial portions of the dendrites, followed by increasing nodularization of the dendrite tree and loss of whatever spines or postsynaptic specializations may have been present in the young adult. Zones of constriction along dendrite shafts seemed to result in complete breaks with loss of the distal segment and shrivelling of the proximal segment. Irregularly swollen neurons with “amputation stumps” replacing principle dendrites appeared the penultimate phase before eventual cell loss. The remarkably widespread occurrence of such changes throughout sensory and motor systems is considered in relation to the consequent loss of functional neuropil and the possible embarrassment of coping behavior in the senile mouse.
Published Version
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