The globule leucocyte in the intestinal mucosa of the cat: a histochemical, light and electron microscopic study.

Abstract

AbstractGlobule leucocytes (GL) first noted by Weill ('19) in the intestinal tract of certain mammals, have been described, since, in many species. The classification and function of these cells, however, is still under discussion. We have studied GL in the cat using histochemistry at light and electron microscopic levels. In this species, GL are concentrated in the intestinal mucosa; they are found less frequently in the gallbladder and only rarely in other organs. GL are usually located between the epithelial cells of the gut, seldom in the underlying lamina propria. They appear to be migratory cells of mesenchymal origin, representing an independent cell population. GL are characterized by large eosinophilic globules in their cytoplasm. The globules contain strongly basic proteins associated with phospholipids and neutral mucosubstances which, in the colon, are encased in a capsule of sulfated mucosubstances. At the ultrastructural level the typical globules consist of a dense, homogeneous matrix enclosed by a single membrane; they show, however, great variation in their morphologic appearance, reflecting, possibly, different stages in the process of accretion and utilization of their content.