The fine structure of the dorsal column nucleus and the nucleus of bischoff of the python (Python reticulatus)

Abstract

Three types of neuronal perikaryal profiles were identified in the dorsal column nucleus and the nucleus of Bischoff of the python (Python reticulatus). Type I neuronal profiles are large (diameters 12-20 μm) with a deeply indented uncleus. The cisterns of rough endoplasmic reticulum (rER) are mostly randomly dispersed. Axosomatic synapses are few. Type II neuronal profiles (9-11 μm) have a smooth, round, or slightly oval nucleus. Several small stacks of rER are present. Type III neuronal profiles (8-10 μm) have little cytoplasm. The nuclear margin is irregular but not deeply infolded. The rER usually consists of a single long perinuclear ribosome-studded cistern. Two types of astrocytic profiles have been identified. Both types contain abundant filaments. Type I astrocytes are large cells, and the nucleus is very irregular in shape. Type II astrocytes are smaller and are found among the myelinated axons in the dorsal funiculus. Two classes of axon terminals have been identified. One class contains round synaptic vesicles (R profiles) and the other flattened vesicles (F profiles). Some R profiles are small (SR profiles), others are large (LR profiles). Some R profiles also contain a few large, dense-cored vesicles. The R and F profiles establish axodendritic and axoaxonal synapses, some of which are located in the synaptic glomeruli and others in the extraglomerular neuropil. In most of the axoaxonal synapses, the presynaptic element is an F profile and the post synaptic element an LR profile. Occasionally, LR profiles are presynaptic to F profiles. The findings in the python are compared with those of the dorsal column nuclei of the rat, cat, and monkey.