Abstract
A histochemical and morphological study has been made on the tissue surrounding the individual seminiferous tubules of the rat testis, as seen both under normal conditions and after a heavy dose of radiation (10,000 r) applied locally. This tissue consists of four main layers: an inner non-cellular layer (basement membrane), an inner cellular layer, an outer non-cellular layer and an outer cellular layer. The inner non-cellular layer contains a complex network of fibres which we have identified as reticular fibres. By electron microscopy it has been shown that the fibres are embedded in a “clear” region sandwiched between two “dense” layers. Morphologically, there is some similarity between cells of the inner cellular layer and smooth muscle cells of uterus and bladder as described by other workers. Both lots of cells contain many fine filaments which tend to limit the disposition of other cytoplasmic elements. The view that cells of the inner cellular layer may be a type of smooth muscle cell of a different level of organisation from those of uterus and bladder is discussed. The outer non-cellular layer contains a much less developed network of reticular fibres than the inner non-cellular layer. The fibres are considerably fewer and are embedded in a “clear” region usually associated with only a single layer of dense material. The outer cellular layer is extremely thin and is composed of elongate cells which do not possess fine filaments. These cells are probably fibroblasts.No difference in staining reaction was discovered between normal tissue and that which had been heavily irradiated. Even after the very high dose of radiation employed the ultrastructure of the cells of the boundary tissue remained apparently intact. Noticeable changes occurred in the non-cellular regions, however, and are described in detail.The possible physiological significance of the morphological results obtained is discussed.
Published Version
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.
