Re-innervation of smooth muscle of the vas deferens transplanted into the anterior chamber of the eye.

Abstract

AbstractPieces of vas deferens were transplanted into the anterior chamber of the eye in guinea pigs. The transplants were observed in vivo and then removed and examined with cellular methods. Changes occurring in smooth muscle cells and in nerves were examined with the electron microscope and with the fluorescence histochemical method. Neuromuscular transmission in the transplant was examined with microelectrode and organ bath methods. Four main phases were distinguished in transplants between 2 days and 14 weeks (the oldest transplants examined): (1) initial degeneration of nerves and muscles; (2) vascularization followed by the onset of regeneration of muscle at 3 to 4 days; (3) re‐innervation by nerves from the iris and muscle‐bundle formation beginning at 1 to 2 weeks; (4) restitution of functional neuromuscular transmission beginning at about 4 weeks. The number of adrenergic nerves grandually increased, but even at 14 weeks, the overall density was less than in a normal adult preparation. Nevertheless, neuromuscular transmission was comparable to that in a normal vas deferens. The factors involved in the regeneration of single muscle fibers, the formation of muscle bundles and neuromuscular relationships, and the regulation of reinnervation density are discussed.